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Salem, MA First-Time Home Buyer Guide — June 2026

Buying your first home in Salem, Massachusetts — what it costs, the down payment you need, and programs that help.

Updated June 2026 · Live MLS data
Median Home Price
$597K
Down Payment (FHA 3.5%)
$20.9K
Down Payment (20%)
$119K
Income Needed
$164K/yr
Est. Monthly Payment
$3,836

Buying Your First Home in Salem

The median home in Salem, Massachusetts is priced around $597K. For a first-time buyer, the biggest hurdles are the down payment and qualifying income — but there are more options than many people realize.

With an FHA loan you can put down as little as 3.5% — about $20.9K on a median Salem home — versus $119K for conventional 20% down. Massachusetts also offers help through MassHousing and the ONE Mortgage program, which can lower your down payment and monthly cost.

To comfortably afford the median Salem home you'd want household income around $164K, but targeting lower-priced listings or using down-payment assistance can bring it within reach. Browse current listings to see what fits your budget.

Browse homes for sale in Salem → See every active listing with photos, pricing, and full details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need to buy my first home in Salem, MA?

On the median Salem home ($597K), an FHA down payment (3.5%) is about $20.9K, or $119K with 20% down. Budget another ~2-3% for closing costs.

What programs help first-time buyers in Massachusetts?

MassHousing and the ONE Mortgage program offer low-down-payment loans, down-payment assistance, and reduced mortgage insurance for eligible first-time buyers. FHA loans (3.5% down) are also widely used.

What income do I need to buy in Salem?

Roughly $164K a year to comfortably afford the median Salem home — though lower-priced listings or assistance programs can lower that.

Market figures are derived from live MLS data and are provided for informational purposes only. They are not an appraisal or a guarantee of value. Last updated June 2026.