Welcome to the Cape Ann Region: Iconic Coastal Living

There is something genuinely magical about the Cape Ann Region. Defined by its rugged, rocky granite coastlines, deep-rooted seafaring history, and pristine sandy shores, this sub-region represents the quintessential New England lifestyle. Emerging from the winter market, Cape Ann experienced an incredible seasonal surge in Q2 2026. Active listings more than doubled to 326 properties, fueling a 100% double-digit explosion in closed unit sales (128 homes sold in Q2 vs. just 64 in Q1). Driven by fierce lifestyle demand, the regional median sales price climbed 10.4% over the previous quarter to $927,500, with homes moving swiftly off the market at an average of 36 days.

If you are looking to purchase a piece of the classic Massachusetts coast, Cape Ann offers distinct communities that cater to every definition of "home."

The Towns of Cape Ann: Q2 2026 Market Stats & Lifestyle Appeal

 Beverly, MA

• The Q2 2026 Statistics: 53 Units Sold | $930,000 Median Sale Price | 35 Average Days on Market

• Why You Want to Move Here: Known affectionately as "The Garden City," Beverly perfectly balances vibrant, transit-oriented downtown convenience with high-end, quiet coastal neighborhoods. With multiple commuter rail stops and the gorgeous public beaches of Beverly Cove, it's a dream location for professionals who want immediate access to upscale restaurants, a thriving local theater scene, and effortless water access.

 Gloucester, MA

• The Q2 2026 Statistics: 38 Units Sold | $744,750 Median Sale Price | 47 Average Days on Market

• Why You Want to Move Here: As America's oldest working seaport, Gloucester offers an unmatched, authentic coastal grit and maritime pride. It boasts some of the most spectacular natural white-sand beaches in New England—Good Harbor and Wingaersheek. If your goal is to live a lifestyle directly connected to boating, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, and fresh dock-to-table seafood, Gloucester delivers an active waterfront community at a highly competitive regional value.

 Rockport, MA

• The Q2 2026 Statistics: 12 Units Sold | $1,155,000 Median Sale Price | 37 Average Days on Market

• Why You Want to Move Here: Situated at the absolute tip of Cape Ann, Rockport is the epitome of picturesque charm. Home to the world-renowned Bearskin Neck art colony and the iconic "Motif #1" fishing shack, this town is built for those seeking creative inspiration, serenity, and striking shingle-style coastal architecture. It is a peaceful coastal haven where the pace slows down and the views open up.

 Essex, MA

• The Q2 2026 Statistics: 13 Units Sold | $930,000 Median Sale Price | 35 Average Days on Market

• Why You Want to Move Here: If your dream is coastal living combined with rural privacy, open acreage, and classic New England history, Essex is your destination. Widely celebrated as America’s antique capital, this quiet town trades immediate ocean waves for winding rivers, expansive salt marshes, and beautiful wooded landscapes. It’s perfect for buyers seeking private estates, kayaking on the Essex River, and a cozy, small-town community.

 Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA

• The Q2 2026 Statistics: 12 Units Sold | $1,615,000 Median Sale Price | 40 Average Days on Market

• Why You Want to Move Here: As the premier luxury anchor of the Cape Ann region, Manchester-by-the-Sea represents the peak of exclusive North Shore real estate. Home to the legendary, musical sands of Singing Beach, pristine private yacht clubs, and an elite regional school system, it draws buyers looking for historic, winding estate paths, exceptional privacy, and a highly prestigious neighborhood environment.

Navigating Cape Ann with Kathy & Terry Sullivan

With months of inventory dropping sharply from 3.9 months down to a lean 2.4 months this quarter, Cape Ann is a fast-moving, competitive market where timing and strategy mean everything. Navigating this coastal terrain requires a specialized hand—and that’s where we come in.

When you partner with Kathy and Terry Sullivan, you aren't just getting real estate agents; you are gaining a dedicated team with a comprehensive business, risk management, and local market analysis background.

• Kathy Sullivan brings a meticulous, highly organized approach to contract preparation and strategy execution. She ensures your offer stands out in multi-offer situations, giving listing agents and sellers a seamless package they cannot refuse.

• Terry Sullivan utilizes his extensive risk management background to expose latent liabilities, analyze property values thoroughly, and protect your investments from costly mistakes.

Together, we use detailed MLS market intelligence reports to track real-time price corrections, inventory velocity, and structural opportunities—guiding you safely home to Cape Ann.