Downtown & waterfront
Market Square, the boardwalk along the Merrimack, and shops and restaurants within walking distance of many homes.
Newburyport, MA
Brick sidewalks, a working waterfront, and a downtown people actually walk to.
Newburyport packs a lot into a small city: a walkable historic downtown around Market Square, the Merrimack River waterfront, and Plum Island’s beaches a short drive away. It’s also the end of the commuter rail line, so Boston is a train ride, not a drive.
- Feel
- Walkable small city, historic downtown
- Schools
- Newburyport Public Schools
- Getting around
- MBTA Newburyport Line to North Station · I-95 · Route 1
What people love about Newburyport.
Train to Boston
The MBTA Newburyport Line ends here, with direct trains to North Station.
Plum Island & open space
Plum Island beaches, the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, Maudslay State Park and the Clipper City Rail Trail.
Schools
Newburyport has its own public school district.
Selling in Newburyport
What moves home prices here
- How close a home is to downtown and the water shapes its price. Two similar houses can land far apart depending on location.
- Many homes here are 18th- and 19th-century. Buyers will ask about electrical, heating and foundation work, so having records ready helps.
- On Plum Island, flood zone and flood insurance cost are among buyers’ first questions.
- Off-street parking near downtown is a real selling point. Make sure it’s front and center.
Buying in Newburyport
Good to know before you tour
- Homes near downtown tend to draw the most competition, so it helps to be pre-approved before you start touring.
- Older homes have character and quirks. Plan time for a thorough inspection.
- If you’re looking on Plum Island, price in flood insurance before you fall in love.
Comparing towns?
See all six side by side, or jump to another town.