Essex County, Massachusetts
Newburyport is a small coastal city at the mouth of the Merrimack River, with a brick downtown rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1811, neighborhoods of 18th- and 19th-century homes, and newer homes toward the city's edges. It's the northern end of the MBTA Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail line, with I-95 and Route 1 nearby. I've developed three new homes and won two land approvals here.
Housing
Federal, Greek Revival and Victorian homes, many on small lots. Expect older systems, plaster walls and lead paint in homes built before 1978.
Mid-20th-century and newer homes farther from the center, often on larger lots, plus some new construction on infill and subdivided lots.
Units in converted older homes and buildings near downtown and the waterfront, plus newer complexes.
Part of Plum Island is in Newburyport. Properties there are exposed to coastal flooding and erosion; flood insurance and elevation requirements matter.
Before you buy or sell
Housing data
| Population (2025 estimate) | 19,148 |
|---|---|
| Owner-occupied homes | 77.5% |
| Median value of owner-occupied homes | $834,000 |
| Median monthly owner costs, with a mortgage | $3,436 |
| Median gross rent | $1,592 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, QuickFacts (American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates; population estimate July 1, 2025). Checked November 9, 2026. These are survey estimates averaged over five years, not current sale prices. For recent sales in Newburyport, ask Damon for current MLS data.
Listings
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Request your reportLocal experience
Newburyport Developed & sold · April 2021Resold in January 2025 for $1,470,000 (Bk 42538 Pg 523).
Source: Southern Essex Registry of Deeds, Book 39776, Page 30
Newburyport Developed & sold · November 2018Source: Project records; deed reference to be added
Source: Project records; deed reference to be added
Rendering of the approved planFit 15 lots on about two acres that had been four separate lots.
Source: Damon's project records, October 2026
Rendering of the approved planThree earlier buyers couldn't get it permitted.
Source: Damon's project records, October 2026
A large share of the housing near downtown is historic, but the city also has mid-century neighborhoods, condominiums and some new construction. The right inspection plan depends on the home's age and construction.
It depends on the address. Some riverfront and Plum Island properties are in FEMA flood zones where lenders require flood insurance. Check the FEMA flood map for the specific property and get a quote before you offer.
Possibly, but demolition of older buildings can require city review and waiting periods. Talk to the Planning Office early, before you commit to a price based on new construction.