Cities and Towns in Essex County, Massachusetts

Founded in 1643, Essex County is one of 14 counties in the state of Massachusetts. Historically, Essex County was one of four original counties created in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Government abolished in 1999. The city of Salem, Lawrence is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Essex County has a population of 807,074 and area of 498 square miles (1,290 km²).

List of all cities in Essex County, MA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Amesbury, MA	01913	978/351
Andover, MA	01810	978/351
	01812	978/351
	01899	978/351
	05501	978/351
	05544	978/351
Bar Coded I R S, MA	01899	978/351
Beverly, MA	01915	978/351
Beverly Farms, MA	01915	978/351
Boxford, MA	01921	978/351
Bradford, MA	01835	978/351
Byfield, MA	01922	978/351
Danvers, MA	01923	978/351
East Lynn, MA	01904	781/339
Essex, MA	01929	978/351
General Elec Co, MA	01910	781/339
Georgetown, MA	01833	978/351
Gloucester, MA	01930	978/351
	01931	978/351
Groveland, MA	01834	978/351
Hamilton, MA	01936	978/351
	01982	978/351
Hathorne, MA	01937	978/351
Haverhill, MA	01830	978/351
	01831	978/351
	01832	978/351
	01833	978/351
	01835	978/351
Internal Revenue Service, MA	01812	978/351
Ipswich, MA	01938	978/351
IRS Service Center, MA	05501	978/351
IRS Service Center, MA	05544	978/351
Lawrence, MA	01840	978/351
	01841	978/351
	01842	978/351
	01843	978/351
Lynn, MA	01901	781/339
	01902	781/339
	01903	781/339
	01904	781/339
	01905	781/339
	01910	781/339
Lynnfield, MA	01940	781/339
Magnolia, MA	01930	978/351
Manchester, MA	01944	978/351
Manchester by the Sea, MA	01944	978/351
Marblehead, MA	01945	781/339
Merrimac, MA	01860	978/351
Methuen, MA	01844	978/351
Mhead, MA	01945	781/339
Middleton, MA	01949	978/351
Nahant, MA	01908	781/339
Newbury, MA	01922	978/351
	01951	978/351
Newburyport, MA	01950	978/351
	01951	978/351
North Andover, MA	01845	978/351
Peabody, MA	01960	978/351
Peabody, MA	01961	978/351
Pigeon Cove, MA	01966	978/351
Plum Island, MA	01950	978/351
	01951	978/351
Prides Crossing, MA	01965	978/351
Rockport, MA	01966	978/351
Rowley, MA	01969	978/351
Salem, MA	01970	978/351
	01971	978/351
Salisbury, MA	01952	978/351
Salisbury Beach, MA	01952	978/351
Saugus, MA	01906	781/339
South Hamilton, MA	01982	978/351
South Lawrence, MA	01843	978/351
South Lynnfield, MA	01940	781/339
Swampscott, MA	01907	781/339
Topsfield, MA	01983	978/351
Ward Hill, MA	01835	978/351
Wenham, MA	01984	978/351
West Boxford, MA	01885	978/351
West Lynn, MA	01905	781/339
West Newbury, MA	01985	978/351
West Peabody, MA	01960	978/351

Major Cities and Towns in Essex County, Massachusetts

Salem

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 18.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 44,480 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01970
• Latitude: 42.5195° N
• Longitude: 70.8967° W

Location and History

Salem, located along the North Shore of Massachusetts, is famously known for its historical significance related to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Founded in 1626, Salem quickly became a prominent seaport, with trade routes extending as far as Asia. In the late 17th century, the city became infamous for the witch trials, during which more than 20 people were executed. Salem’s history is rich with maritime and architectural significance, as the city was a major hub during America’s early shipping era. Today, Salem is a popular tourist destination known for its witchcraft-related attractions, maritime history, and its well-preserved Colonial and Federal architecture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Salem is part of Salem Public Schools, with Salem High School being the main secondary school. Major landmarks include the Salem Witch Museum, which explores the witch trials, and the Peabody Essex Museum, one of the oldest continuously operating museums in the U.S., which features maritime artifacts and art. The Salem Maritime National Historic Site offers insight into the city’s shipping history. The House of the Seven Gables, made famous by Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, is another significant site. In October, the city hosts “Haunted Happenings,” a month-long celebration of Halloween, which draws thousands of visitors.

Beverly

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 22.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 42,670 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01915
• Latitude: 42.5584° N
• Longitude: 70.8800° W

Location and History

Beverly, located along the coast just north of Salem, was settled in 1626 and incorporated in 1668. Known as the “Birthplace of the American Navy,” Beverly played a key role during the American Revolution when the first commissioned ship of the U.S. Navy, Hannah, was built and launched from the city’s harbor in 1775. In the 19th century, Beverly became a manufacturing center for shoes and cotton goods. Today, Beverly is known for its picturesque waterfront, historic neighborhoods, and growing arts community. It is a vibrant suburban city with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Beverly is part of the Beverly Public Schools district, with Beverly High School being the major secondary school. Major landmarks include Lynch Park, a historic park that hosts concerts and events during the summer, and the Cabot Theatre, a historic movie palace and performing arts center. The Beverly Historical Society’s John Cabot House showcases exhibits on local history. Endicott College and Montserrat College of Art bring a vibrant student population to the city. Beverly’s coastal beauty is highlighted by Dane Street Beach and Independence Park, which offer scenic views of Beverly Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.

Gloucester

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 41.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 29,729 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01930
• Latitude: 42.6159° N
• Longitude: 70.6610° W

Location and History

Gloucester, located on Cape Ann, is one of the oldest fishing ports in the United States, having been settled in 1623. The city’s economy has historically been tied to the fishing industry, and it became the subject of famous works such as Rudyard Kipling’s Captains Courageous and Sebastian Junger’s The Perfect Storm. Gloucester’s maritime heritage is celebrated through its vibrant fishing community, with fishing boats still dotting the harbor today. The city’s beautiful coastline and beaches also attract tourists and artists, making it a cultural hub with galleries, museums, and historic homes.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gloucester is part of the Gloucester Public Schools system, with Gloucester High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the iconic Fisherman’s Memorial, which honors those lost at sea, and Hammond Castle, a museum located in a medieval-style castle that was once the home of inventor John Hays Hammond. The Rocky Neck Art Colony, one of the oldest working art colonies in the U.S., reflects Gloucester’s artistic tradition. Good Harbor Beach and Stage Fort Park are popular spots for locals and visitors alike. Gloucester’s annual Saint Peter’s Fiesta celebrates the city’s Italian-American fishing community with boat races, parades, and religious ceremonies.

Newburyport

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 10.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 18,289 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01950
• Latitude: 42.8126° N
• Longitude: 70.8773° W

Location and History

Newburyport, situated on the Merrimack River near the New Hampshire border, was settled in 1635 and incorporated in 1764. It developed as a prosperous seaport, with shipbuilding and maritime trade driving its economy during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Newburyport was one of the country’s leading shipbuilding centers, producing clipper ships that sailed worldwide. In the 20th century, the city shifted to manufacturing, but today it is known for its beautifully preserved Federal-style homes and vibrant downtown area. Newburyport is a popular destination for tourists, drawn to its historic charm, boutique shopping, and waterfront activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Newburyport is served by Newburyport Public Schools, with Newburyport High School being the main secondary institution. Major landmarks include the Custom House Maritime Museum, which highlights the city’s shipbuilding history, and the Maudslay State Park, known for its formal gardens and hiking trails. The historic waterfront and boardwalk offer scenic views of the Merrimack River, while Plum Island is a popular spot for birdwatching and beachgoers. Newburyport’s Yankee Homecoming, a week-long summer festival, celebrates the city’s colonial heritage with parades, fireworks, and family-friendly events.

Haverhill

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 35.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 67,787 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01830, 01832, 01835
• Latitude: 42.7762° N
• Longitude: 71.0773° W

Location and History

Haverhill, located along the Merrimack River, was settled in 1640 and quickly grew as a center for agriculture, milling, and shipbuilding. By the 19th century, Haverhill had become known for its production of shoes, earning the nickname “Queen Slipper City.” The shoe industry brought significant wealth and population growth to the area. Today, Haverhill has evolved into a suburban city with a mix of industrial and residential neighborhoods. The city is undergoing a revitalization of its downtown area, with new restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions contributing to its growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Haverhill is part of the Haverhill Public Schools system, with Haverhill High School serving as the main secondary institution. Major landmarks include Winnekenni Castle, a historic stone castle located in Winnekenni Park, and the Buttonwoods Museum, which explores Haverhill’s history and culture. The Bradford Ski Area, located just outside downtown, offers skiing and snowboarding in the winter. The Merrimack River, which runs through the city, provides opportunities for boating and scenic riverside walks. Haverhill’s annual River Ruckus Festival celebrates the city’s revival with live music, food trucks, and fireworks along the riverfront.

Lynn

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 13.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 101,253 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01901, 01902, 01904, 01905
• Latitude: 42.4668° N
• Longitude: 70.9495° W

Location and History

Lynn, located on the Atlantic coast just north of Boston, was settled in 1629 and is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Originally an agricultural community, Lynn transitioned to an industrial powerhouse in the 19th century, becoming famous for its leather and shoe manufacturing industries. By the early 20th century, the city was known for producing millions of shoes annually. As the leather industry declined, Lynn shifted towards manufacturing and technology, and today, the city is known for its diverse population and its ongoing urban revitalization efforts.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lynn is part of Lynn Public Schools, with Lynn Classical and Lynn English High Schools being the largest secondary schools. Major landmarks include Lynn Woods, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, offering hiking trails, scenic views, and historical ruins. High Rock Tower Park offers panoramic views of the Boston skyline and the Atlantic Ocean. Lynn’s growing arts scene is centered at the Lynn Museum and Cultural Center and the nearby Lynn Auditorium, which hosts concerts and performances. The city’s waterfront along Lynn Shore Drive is a popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ipswich

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 42.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 13,785 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 01938
• Latitude: 42.6796° N
• Longitude: 70.8414° W

Location and History

Ipswich, located along the Ipswich River, was founded in 1634 and is one of the oldest towns in the United States. The town became an important center for Puritanism in early colonial America and was known for its production of clams, salt marsh hay, and lace in the 18th and 19th centuries. Ipswich’s rich colonial history is reflected in its many preserved First Period homes, more than any other town in the country. Today, Ipswich is known for its historic charm, natural beauty, and thriving shellfish industry, particularly its famous Ipswich clams.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ipswich is served by Ipswich Public Schools, with Ipswich High School being the main secondary institution. Major landmarks include Crane Beach, one of the most scenic beaches in New England, and Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, a historic mansion with expansive gardens overlooking the Atlantic. The Ipswich Museum showcases the town’s colonial history and maritime heritage. The town’s historic downtown features preserved 17th-century homes and buildings, offering a glimpse into early American life. The annual Ipswich Ale Harvest Fest and Chowderfest celebrate the town’s cultural and culinary traditions, drawing visitors from across the region.