Salem’s future offshore wind port, image provided by AECOM and Crowley

Economic development in Salem is ever-evolving. There is continued interest and intrigue in how a historic city with a prominent, and often dark, past adapts to modern challenges. The city’s economy is a fascinating case study in how a major tourist destination, famous for its witch trials and maritime history, works to diversify beyond its historical narrative. Salem continues to balance preserving historic architecture and promoting modern projects, such as the emerging offshore wind industry and thriving small business scene, to boost tax revenue and create jobs. Following Salem’s development offers a tangible look at how a community leverages its unique assets to foster a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive economy.

Still Making History

Check out how Salem continues to honor its history while making space for new economic development and industry. Salem’s network of economic development partners are dedicated to supporting the City’s business community by collaborating and sharing resources and expertise to assist with business growth.

Tom Daniel Helps Write a New History While Still Embracing Its Past

Tom Daniel, Salem’s Director of Planning and Community Development, talks offshore wind, DEI, and helping the historical city of Salem grow into the future.

The Sky’s the Limit

Read about how the sky is the limit in Salem as the City embarked on a public-private partnership with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, Avangrid Renewables, and Crowley Maritime Corporation to transform the land that was once home to a coal-fired electrical plant into the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ second port for offshore wind.

A Seaport with a History and a Future

As Salem prepares to celebrate its 400th birthday in 2026, the City continues to honor its past while planning for its future. By prioritizing housing policy, Salem continues to seek new, innovative ways to promote smart housing growth that can provide efficient, attainable homes for Salem’s residents. Read about the many housing developments bringing hundreds of new units online in the coming years, Salem’s process in adopting 40R Smart Growth Districts, and continuing its work in developing the its heavy-lift deep water port that will create jobs, grow the tax base, and support the clean energy economy.