Essex is a coastal town in Essex County, Massachusetts, 26 miles (42 km) north of Boston and 13 miles (21 km) southeast of Newburyport. It is known for its former role as a center of shipbuilding. The population was 3,504 at the 2010 census.The central village areas of Essex and South Essex make up the census-designated place of Essex. The Council on Aging works to maintain the age-friendliness of the community by providing seniors with programs and services such as:
- Knitting Group; Line Dancing; SeniorCare Luncheon; Van to Market Basket; Hair Dresser by Appointment; TRIAD; Monthly Movie; Blood Pressure; Mobile Market; Ladies Breakfast
Essex is an emerging age friendly community. This means it is pursuing an age friendly designation.