Ipswich, Massachusetts, is a charming coastal town with a rich history and scenic landscapes.

Known for its historic architecture and stunning natural beauty,

With a population of about 14,000, Ipswich is a small yet vibrant community that

attracts many people who love to live close to the water. Ipswich is bordered by Rowley, Hamilton, Topsfield, and Essex, and, of  course, the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Ipswich was incorporated as a town in 1634.

Ipswich is famous for many things 

1. Crane beach and Crane estate. 
2. delicious clams
3. For historical homes
4. Willowdale State Forest and Sandy Point State Reservation,

 With pristine sands and a long shoreline, you can spend hours at Crane beach, which many do. There are also sand castle competitions every year. 

 Ipswich is also famous for its clams, often considered some of the best in New England, making it a top destination for seafood lovers. Clams are celebrated annually at the Ipswich Chowderfest.

Ipswich is renowned for its preservation of historic homes and landmarks,

particularly those from the Colonial era. 

The expansive Crane Estate, a historic mansion and grounds are a popular venue for events and outdoor activities. The Great House, was finished in 1928 and is perched high above beautiful Crane Beach and the Atlantic Ocean,, and has the opulent feeling of the 1920s. Castle Hill comprises 165 acres and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1998.

Now let's talk about living here

Ipswich is located approximately 28 miles north of Boston. The drive typically takes about 45-50 minutes, depending on traffic, making it a manageable commute for those who work in the city but prefer the tranquility of a coastal town.

 Ipswich is accessible via Route 1A and Route 133, both of which connect to major highway I-95, providing convenient access to the greater Boston area and other parts of New England.

 Ipswich is served by the MBTA Commuter Rail, with a station in the downtown area providing access to Boston’s North Station. This makes it convenient for residents who commute to Boston or to Newburyport.

 Ipswich has a well-regarded public school system, with several schools serving the community: 2 elementary school and middle and high schools

Ipswich High School is ranked 64th in MA by US news high school rankings.

Ipswich Middle/High School is considered to have one of the state's best music and athletic programs.

When it comes to entertainment, The Castle Hill on the Crane Estate hosts concerts, outdoor events, and tours of the historic mansion.

Ipswich Performing Arts Center is a Venue for local theater productions and community events.

There are several great Restaurants here - The Clam Box of Ipswich, famous for its fried clams and seafood dishes. Choate Bridge Pub, a local favorite for casual dining and pub fare. Salt Kitchen and Rum Bar, known for its creative menu and craft Cocktails.

You can do your grocery shopping at Market Basket or Ipswich Shellfish Company

Ipswich does not have a major hospital within the town, but residents are within a short drive to Beverly Hospital.

And here are my Pros and Cons of Living in Ipswich

Pros:

Strong sense of community and historical charm.

Access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

Excellent public schools

Close proximity to Boston with commuter rail access.

Cons:

Higher cost of living compared to some neighboring towns.

Limited nightlife and entertainment options within the town.

Residents complain about the Property taxes, but compared to the rest of MA, it is relatively low - $11.38 per thousand of property value

Housing: The median sale price for a single-family home in Ipswich since Jan 2024 is $918,000. There were 38 sales this year so far.

Looking for Ipswich or Massachusetts houses for sale? Get in touch with real estate agent Nouné Karapetian! A 30-year resident herself, Nouné has extensive knowledge of the Massachusetts market. She is all about customer satisfaction and helping her clients achieve their real estate goals. Contact Nouné Karapetian to discover your next MA property.