Essex, MA Homes for Rent

Essex retains its historic coastal charm, originating as a shipbuilding community and remaining true to its roots. The neighborhood is known for its seafood, with iconic spots like Woodman's of Essex, famous for inventing the fried clam. Antique shops also draw visitors, though residents travel 15 minutes to Gloucester for groceries. The Essex Historical Society and Shipbuilding Museum enriches the community with events and social clubs, while annual celebrations like Essex River Day and Clamfest highlight local traditions. Outdoor activities are abundant, with cross-country skiing in winter and boating in warmer months, supported by marinas like Pike Marine. The Manchester Essex Regional School District, formed in the early 2000s, includes highly rated Essex Elementary School, Manchester Essex Regional Middle School, and Manchester Essex Regional High School, attracting families to the area. Homes near the town center are smaller and older, featuring colonial styles from as early as 1830, while larger lots and estuary estates are found further out. Prospective buyers should be aware of the higher flood risk in areas closer to the water, necessitating flood insurance for homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas. Essex's quieter lifestyle is partly due to its distance from the Commuter Rail, resulting in longer commutes to Boston, approximately 30 miles away. Nearby cities like Gloucester and Beverly, 7 and 10 miles away respectively, offer major hospitals and larger stores.