Community Spotlight – Ipswich, Massachusetts

The North Shore Alliance for Economic Development serves 30 communities, including four Gateway Cities, and brings their leaders together to explore and take action on economic development issues that can help grow the region, including those that advance the Commonwealth as a whole.

Over the course of the next few months, we will explore and get to know these 30 communities that make up the North Shore region of Massachusetts. We hope our readers will learn more about the unique benefits each community brings to their residents and visitors and how collectively they strengthen our regional economy.

Ipswich, Massachusetts – “Birthplace of American Independence”

Thirty-five miles north of Boston, Massachusetts sits the community of Ipswich. Settled in 1633 and incorporated the following year, Ipswich’s earliest residents were farmers, shipbuilders, traders, and fishermen. Today, Ipswich has grown from these beginnings and added
manufacturing, biotech, retail, and the service industry to its diverse listing of businesses.

Ipswich has a population of 13,785 according to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau report and measures 42.5 square miles. Five towns surround Ipswich including Rowley to the north, Boxford and Topsfield to the west, and Essex and Hamilton to the south.

Economic Strengths & Projects in Ipswich

Since its inception, Ipswich has continued to have a diverse business base. That diversity is important not only to strengthen the business community but for the town’s character as well. According to the Ipswich Economic Development Committee, “Over the past two decades, Ipswich’s economy has exhibited considerable strength and resilience, and its job growth has been impressive, in large part due to the arrival and subsequent expansion of two major businesses, EBSCO, Inc. and New England Biolabs.”

The Town’s economic development efforts have two main focus points. The first is to attract appropriate business development. Second, they want to ensure that the development is compatible with the Town’s values. To the committee, this means “making the best possible use of existing business areas as well as undeveloped land zoned currently for economic development, rather than re-zoning additional land for business use. It also means using creative regulatory approaches to support commercial development at appropriate locations within residentially zoned areas.”

One part of the strength of the economy in Ipswich is in the active partnerships with supportive associations such as the Ipswich Chamber of Commerce, the Ipswich Partnership, the North Shore Chamber of Commerce, the Center for Economic Development & Sustainability at Salem State College, the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and the Ipswich Visitor Center.

Economic Forecast

Ipswich is looking at a positive economic forecast. According to Best Places online, “Ipswich has seen the job market increase by 4.0% over the last year. Future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 38.7%, which is higher than the US average of 33.5%.”

Points of Interest and Events

Ipswich is not only a great place to grow a business but also a wonderful place for individuals, families, and visitors to explore. The Town offers many points of interest including a Chowder festival, outdoor activities, beaches, farms, and historical places to tour.

Castle Hill on Crane Estate

If you have visited Ipswich you know how grand and majestic it is to drive up to the Crane Estate overlooking the ocean. This historic site boasts 2,100 acres and is home to three different properties: Castle Hill, Crane Beach, and the Crane Wildlife Refuge. The breathtaking mansion by the sea will stun you with breathtaking views, architecture, and manicured landscaping. On the sprawling lawn, visitors can enjoy concerts throughout the summer. A short walk down the hill sits Crane’s Beach, one of the most gorgeous beaches on the coast. The Wildlife Refuge has nearly 700 acres where you can paddle through salt marshes or enjoy hiking trails.

Farms & Orchards

Ipswich is known for its amazing farms and orchards including Russell Orchard, Appleton Farms, and Marini Farm. Whether you want to spend a day exploring farm animals, pick some apples, get lost in a corn maze, or enjoy some delicious apple cider and apple cider donuts these farms will make your experience a great one.

Outdoor Fun

Enjoying nature is one of the best parts of exploring Ipswich. Take a walk and enjoy an unspoiled beach at Sandy Point Reservation, or visit Hamlin Reservation where you can follow the trail loop past a salt marsh and dike. If you really want to get in touch with wildlife visit Wolf Hollow, a local non-profit (North American Wolf Foundation) where you can watch grey wolves and how they interact with their pack.

Dining

Ipswich has a thriving downtown district where you will find many places to shop, eat and stay. Don’t forget to visit the Clam Box for some fried seafood made in the unique clam box-shaped building!

Economic Resources

Ipswich has several organizations that help new businesses as well as help existing businesses grow. Many of these organizations offer not only mentoring and business solutions but also have classes, workshops, and regular meetings to help strengthen the business community. These include the Ipswich Chamber of Commerce, the Ipswich Partnership, the North Shore Chamber of Commerce, the Center for Economic Development & Sustainability at Salem State College, the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, and the Ipswich Visitor Center.

Major Strengths of the Community

Ipswich is a great community to live, work and visit. It has many amenities and business organizations to help local companies thrive. Along with Town activities and points of interest, there are many groups with the mission to help improve and strengthen the business and community environment of the town.

Why Choose to Live or Do Business in Ipswich, Massachusetts?

Individuals, families, and businesses thrive in Ipswich with its great schools, the supportive business community, and endless opportunities for things to do and see.

Public Transportation & Navigating Ipswich

Ipswich is accessible through Massachusetts Routes 1 and 133. Ipswich has a commuter rail station along the Newburyport/Rockport Line of the MBTA Commuter Rail. This provides service between Newburyport and Boston’s North Station. During the summer months, the Ipswich Essex Explorer provides weekend shuttle services connecting the Ipswich MBTA train station with Crane Beach, Essex, and Appleton Farms.

Contact Ipswich, Massachusetts

Ipswich Town Hall
25 Green Street
Ipswich, MA
(978) 356-6600