Potentially moving to Salem in the next couple of years... would love some info! (Boston: school)

[sourwolf]

Hi there,

I'm a 22 year old college student who is studying criminal justice. Right now, I'm attending a school in Southern Maine getting my Associates degree in CJ, and I'm potentially considering Salem State University for a Bachelor's degree. From what I've seen and read about the city, I'd really love to actually live in Salem at some point, and was considering applying at the Salem P.D. to be an officer, either post completing a Bachelor's at SSU or while completing it.

I was just looking for some firsthand info on what it's like living there, particularly for someone in my age range, as well as a decent place to live for a decent price, potential jobs while I go through the process of applying to become a P.O., etc. Thanks in advance!

[bler144]

Like anywhere in the Boston metro it's not cheap. But I think it's a fun town - museums/bakeries/waterfront/boats and it has good restaurants including a decent brewpub. I think it would be a pretty fun place to spend one's 20s.

Access to Boston by rail or ferry is pretty good (though because there's no stop near campus, it's harder to rely on commuting to SSU via public transit).

Getting in/out via car isn't the easiest thing in the world, so if you're studying/working there, personally I think it makes sense to live there as well. Or maybe Marblehead if you had the cash. Most of the 'mall' shopping isn't too far away as the crow flies (Danvers/Peabody) but it can be a slow drive.

[cityorcountrygirl]

I think bler144 hit the nail on the head. So much to do in Salem, and it's only getting better. Lots of young people, young families, and young professionals. My husband and I have lived here since our early 20s and just love it. Downsides are definitely traffic. noise, and cost of living.