golocalworcester.com: Manchester-by-the-Sea and Essex in Top 50 Massachusetts’ Best Communities 2013
#16 Manchester By The Sea
For its first 200 years Manchester by the Sea thrived as a fishing community until 1845 when it became the summer home destination of choice for Boston’s wealthy elite. This trend was bolstered by the efforts of famous architects, who constructed homes in the area. One mile from the town center is Singing Beach, so named because of the squeaking symphony the sand makes when walked upon. Also on this beach is “Eaglehead” a massive rock that is a focal point for rock climbing and other recreational activities.
Manchester By The Sea by the numbers
Population: 5,136
Median household income: $114,639
Median housing price: $288,369
2013 Best Communities rankings
Overall ranking: 16
Affordability ranking: 44
Education ranking: 2
Economic condition ranking: 20
Safety ranking: 289
Arts & Culture ranking: 147
Famous residents:
Nat Faxon, comedian and Oscar winner for adapted screenplay for The Descendants at the 84th Academy Awards
Josh Gates, host of Destination Truth—former resident
Sprague Grayden, actress
Henry Northey Hooper, a founder of the sugar industry in Hawaii
William Northey Hooper, manufacturer and Boston politician
Joe Lloyd, professional golfer
James McMillan, Michigan senator instrumental in the design of the Washington Mall, died (1902) at his summer home in Manchester
Susan Minot, author
Ray Ozzie, software entrepreneur
George Putnam III, trustee of Putnam Investments
Gardner Read, composer (1913–2005)
Jay Severin, radio talk show host
Josiah Spaulding, businessman, attorney, and politician; chairman of the Massachusetts Republican Party from 1965-1970
#41 Essex
They say that the river calls you, but the town keeps you, and this beautiful Cape Ann small town on the river that bears its name has a legacy of shipbuilding and the beautiful architecture that stems from it.
Essex by the numbers
Population: 3,504
Median household income: $79,492
Median housing price: $489,000
2013 Best Communities rankings
Overall ranking: 41
Affordability ranking: 333
Education ranking: 6
Economic condition ranking: 195
Safety ranking: 86
Arts & Culture ranking: 88 (T)
