Top photo: John Phelan, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
By Jenna Caldwell, The Boston Report. Updated Oct. 27, 2026.
Salem is an Essex County city on the North Shore, about 16 miles northeast of downtown Boston. The 2020 Census counted 44,480 residents. Salem is known for its maritime history, the Peabody Essex Museum and the 1692 witch trials, and its October Haunted Happenings season draws large crowds.
Salem has a mayor and an 11-member City Council. This page collects our Salem coverage, including City Council decisions and Halloween travel information, and links the official resources residents use most.
- Population (2020 Census): 44,480
- Getting there: Salem station is on the MBTA Newburyport/Rockport commuter rail line, and seasonal ferry service runs between Salem and Boston.
Latest Salem news
- Salem Council Wants More Detail on Unattended Property Rule Oct 27, 2026
- Salem on Halloween 2026: Road Closures, Trains and Parking From Boston Oct 26, 2026
Official Salem resources
- City of Salem (official website)
- Salem Public Schools
- Salem Public Library
- Destination Salem (visitor information)
Related Boston Report guides
- Boston Halloween week guide
- All Boston-area news
- Boston City Hall decisions tracker
- Best restaurants in Boston
- Boston weather
- MBTA guide
- All Local Towns pages
Salem FAQ
How is Salem, MA governed?
Salem has a mayor and an 11-member City Council.
How far is Salem from Boston?
About 16 miles northeast of downtown Boston, on the North Shore.
How many people live in Salem, MA?
The 2020 U.S. Census counted 44,480 residents.
Sources
Have a local news tip? Email contact@thebostonreport.com.