Is life in Salem, MA really so bleak? (Boston, Lynn: neighborhood, schools)

[BonsoirLittleLuna]

I have been to Salem before, but only as a visitor for weekend trips. I really love the downtown area, proximity to Boston and other amenities, and history. The people I have met there seem friendly as well.

My husband has a possible work opportunity there now and the answers on these boards make it seem like the quality of life in Salem year-round is quite low overall (i.e., bad schools, high cost of living, congestion, crime, etc.). Do you think this is a fair picture of Salem, or is actually living there better than it seems on these forums? I know it's subjective, but any and all feedback is welcome! Thanks!

[porterhouse]

I know lots of people that live in Salem who love it. None of them have children in the schools, but they enjoy much of what you find attractive (the downtown area, restaurants and access to Cape Ann). The commute into Boston is relatively manageable. There are much worse places to live in this area IMO.

[BostonMike7]

I did 9 months in salem. I wouldn't paint it as bleak and enjoyed my time there.

[Bruins_Fan]

Salem is okay, but would not send my kids to school there. Traffic is a pain, and October is especially bad as you might expect. Pluses are quite a few restaurants, history, and some nightlife.

[Boston_Burbs]

Depends on where you live. Highland Ave (107) is pretty much an extension of Lynn. The downtown is nice.

[Bruins_Fan]

Actually, Withchcraft Heights is off of Highland Ave and is fine.

I'd stay away from the Point neighborhood, too. I wouldn't call it dangerous per se, but not great either. Also not a fan of some of the area around Boston St, either.

[brightdoglover]

I have a friend who works for the city of Salem. Loves living there with his husband, who commutes to downtown Boston easily by train. No kids.

A lot of people are moving to Salem for an urbanized life and finding it quite suitable. But no kids.

[dysgenic]

I lived there for a number of years. I would say it's a great place for a single person with disposable income. Not a great place for a family.

[bohemka]

Salem's great. Maybe check out Beverly as well. Schools are considered a bit better I believe. Lots going on there along Cabot and Rantoul streets, beaches, just one more stop on the commuter rail, and right over a bridge for easy access to Salem. (Not to mention better positioned for easy access to Cape Ann.)

[in_newengland]

Originally Posted by bohemka

Salem's great. Maybe check out Beverly as well. Schools are considered a bit better I believe. Lots going on there along Cabot and Rantoul streets, beaches, just one more stop on the commuter rail, and right over a bridge for easy access to Salem. (Not to mention better positioned for easy access to Cape Ann.)

I second the idea of Beverly. Salem seems to be for singles or young marrieds without kids. Beverly is becoming a nice place. They're redeveloped at lot of it and there seems to be a lot going on lately. Even five years ago it seemed somewhat dumpy to me but it's come a long way. Just like Salem has come a long way but Salem has become more congested and is more for young, childless people. I'd take a look at Beverly.