Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Essex, MA
Considering a move to Essex, MA? This charming coastal town has a population of 3,800 and is known for its scenic beauty, low crime rates, and top-rated schools. Median home values are around $710,000, with an average rent of $2,150, reflecting a higher cost of living balanced by strong household incomes and a safe environment. Commute times average about 28 minutes, and residents enjoy 56% sunny days annually, making Essex a wonderful blend of small-town tranquility and New England charm.
Demographics - Essex, MA
Essex, MA is a small coastal community of about 3,800 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 47, reflecting a mature, close-knit atmosphere. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, offering a welcoming environment for families and retirees alike.
Population:
3,800
Density:
230 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.1%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Essex, MA?
Living in Essex comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $710,000 and a cost of living index of 142.5. While housing and everyday expenses are elevated, these are balanced by strong local incomes and quality amenities.
Median House Value:
$710,000
Gross Rent:
$2,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,520
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,050
State Taxes:
Low:
5%
|
High:
9%
Cost Of Living Index:
142.5
Grocery:
119.2
Housing:
168.5
Utilities:
112.8
Transportation:
130.7
Health Care:
118.3
Miscellaneous:
117.0
Crime
Is Essex, MA a safe place to live?
Essex is known for its low crime rates, with just 52 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 1,900 chance of experiencing violent crime, making it a safe place to call home. Property crime is also relatively rare, providing peace of mind for families and newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
52
Property Crimes Per 100k:
680
Crime Index:
732
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,900
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 560
Weather
What is the weather like in Essex, MA year-round?
Residents of Essex enjoy a classic New England climate, with warm summers peaking at 81°F and chilly winters dipping to 18°F. The town receives around 49 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 56% of the year, offering a pleasant balance for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
41°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
The community boasts a median household income of $112,400 and a low poverty rate of 4.8%, reflecting overall affluence and stability. Education levels are high, with nearly 98% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and over half earning a bachelor's degree or higher.
Median Income:
$60,000
Household Income:
$112,400
Family Income:
$135,000
Per Capita Income:
$56,200
Income Male:
$64,000
Income Female:
$52,000
Poverty Rate:
4.8%
Non English Speakers:
5.2%
Rent:
$2,150
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
4.9%
Commute Time:
28.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.6%
Bachelors or More:
57.8%
Education
How are the schools in Essex, MA?
Families in Essex have access to quality public education, including Essex Elementary School with a favorable student-teacher ratio. Additionally, private schooling options and nearby colleges such as Endicott College and Salem State University provide a range of educational opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Essex Elementary School
Street:
12 Story St
Phone:
978-768-7324
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5
Private Schools
Name:
Brookwood School
Street:
1 Brookwood Rd, Manchester, MA
Phone:
978-526-4500
Students:
350
Colleges
Name:
Endicott College
City:
Beverly
State:
MA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
4,000
Name:
Salem State University
City:
Salem
State:
MA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
7,700
Healthcare
Essex residents benefit from excellent healthcare access, with a high physician-to-resident ratio and 97% health insurance coverage. Major hospitals like Addison Gilbert and Beverly Hospital are just a short drive away, ensuring reliable emergency and general medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Addison Gilbert Hospital
Address:
298 Washington St, Gloucester, MA 01930
Phone:
(978) 283-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Beverly Hospital
Address:
85 Herrick St, Beverly, MA 01915
Phone:
(978) 922-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.3%
Health Care Index:
78.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Essex, MA?
The housing market in Essex is competitive, with a median home price of $710,000 and strong appreciation rates over the past year. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area maintains a low rental vacancy and foreclosure rate, indicating a robust and stable real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$710,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle their vehicle registration and licensing needs through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in nearby Boston and accessible online. The state DMV offers comprehensive services for drivers and new residents.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109
Phone:
1-857-368-8000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.