5 Essex County Massachusetts neighborhoods where $700K tends to stretch the farthest

With a $700,000 single-family budget in Essex County, the “best value” pockets right now tend to be places where you’re buying into (1) solid schools, (2) a real commute option (train/Route 128/93 access), and (3) towns that aren’t the priciest on the North Shore, but still ride the same long-term demand wave.

Quick market reality check: Essex County’s typical home value is hovering right around $700K, and homes are still going pending pretty fast.

5 neighborhoods where $700K tends to stretch the farthest

1) West Peabody Homes (Peabody)

Why it’s a value play: Peabody’s pricing is often a notch below a lot of the “name brand” coastal towns, but you still get Route 128 access, strong buyer demand, and a very livable suburban feel. Peabody’s typical value sits below $700K, which matters a lot for inventory and condition at your price point. 
Schools: Peabody is a large district, but it’s stable and has plenty of strong-performing schools; DESE accountability is easy to verify district-wide. Massachusetts DOE Profiles
Commute: You’re typically a quick shot to 128/95/1, and you can use nearby commuter rail stations (Salem/Beverly area) depending on exact location.
Safety: Generally solid for a mid-size city; varies by micro-location (as always).

What $700K buys here: Usually the best mix of space + yard + “not a total project.”

2) Danvers “in-between” neighborhoods (think Tapleyville / Great Oak / Holten Richmond area)

Why it’s a value play: Danvers is one of those towns where demand stays strong because you’re near everything (Beverly/Salem/Peabody/128), but it doesn’t always command the same premium as Marblehead/Swampscott/Manchester. Danvers’ typical value is around the low $700s, so your budget can work—especially if you’re flexible on size/updates. 
Schools: DESE accountability reporting is available and straightforward for the district and key schools. Massachusetts DOE Profiles
Commute: This is a Route 1 / 95 / 128 sweet spot; plus easy access to Salem/Beverly rail if you want train options.

What $700K buys here: Often a classic 3-bed where you may do kitchens/baths over time, but the location holds value really well.

3) North Beverly / Centerville (Beverly)

Why it’s a value play: Beverly is pricier overall (typical value above $700K), but North Beverly/Centerville is where you most often still find single-families that can land near your number, especially if you’re okay with smaller capes/ranches or cosmetic updating. 
Schools: Beverly DESE accountability info is readily available (district + individual schools). Massachusetts DOE Profiles+1
Commute (big win): Beverly has strong commuter-rail usability; typical Beverly-to-North Station commute is often cited in the ~35–45 minute range depending on train and stops.
(And the line runs through Beverly as the split point for the Newburyport/Rockport routes.) Keolis Commuter Services

What $700K buys here: Location + commute + long-term desirability; you may trade off some square footage to stay on budget.

4) South Salem / Collins Cove / “just-off-the-Common” residential pockets (Salem)

Why it’s a value play: Salem’s typical home value is well under $700K, so your budget can buy a nicer condition home or a better street than you’d get in higher-priced towns. 
Schools: Salem’s DESE accountability reporting is available and gives you the real picture by school. Massachusetts DOE Profiles
Commute: Strong commuter rail access into Boston (plus you’re near everything on the North Shore).
Future appreciation: Salem’s demand profile is sticky—limited land, lots of year-round lifestyle appeal, and strong rental/second-buyer interest (which supports prices).

What $700K buys here: Often the best “walkability/value” combo—especially if you want to be near downtown without paying Marblehead/Newburyport numbers.

5) Bradford & West Parish area (Haverhill)

Why it’s a value play: If your goal is maximum house for the money without leaving Essex County, Haverhill is the standout: typical values are far below $700K, and the 1-year change has been stronger than several closer-in towns. 
Commute: Haverhill has rail service (downtown Haverhill + Bradford station), which is a real advantage for Boston commuters who don’t want to drive every day. Keolis Commuter Services+1
Schools: DESE accountability is available district-wide and by school—so you can target the stronger zones. Massachusetts DOE Profiles+1
Safety: Like any larger community, it varies by neighborhood; Bradford/West Parish is typically where buyers start when they’re prioritizing a calmer residential feel.

What $700K buys here: Usually more land, more space, and less compromise—with the tradeoff of being farther out

See ALL Homes for Sale in Essex County that are priced at $700,000 or under (there's over 300 of them!)