Essex Homes under $1.25 million

Welcome to Essex, Connecticut—a picturesque gem nestled in Middlesex County that beautifully blends small-town charm with vibrant community spirit. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and rich history, Essex offers an idyllic setting for families, retirees, and anyone looking to embrace a serene lifestyle. With its quaint downtown area, complete with boutique shops, delightful eateries, and scenic waterfront views along the Connecticut River, residents find themselves immersed in a friendly atmosphere that makes every day feel like a getaway.

One of the most appealing aspects of Essex is its diverse range of homes available under $1.25 million. Whether you’re searching for a cozy cottage, a colonial-style home with character, or a modern residence with contemporary amenities, Essex has something to suit every taste and budget. These properties often feature spacious yards, charming architecture, and easy access to the town's numerous parks and recreational activities, making them perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Essex is also known for its strong sense of community, with numerous events and festivals throughout the year that bring residents together. From the annual Essex Clipper Ship Festival to art shows and farmers' markets, there’s always something happening to foster connections and celebrate local culture.

With its blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and affordable housing options, Essex, CT is not just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Come explore the wonderful homes available in this enchanting town and discover the perfect backdrop for your new chapter!

Newest Essex Homes under $1.25 million

$525,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 24209302 MLS

This well maintained 4 bedroom Colonial is located not far from Essex Village at the end of a Cul-de-sac. Some recent updates include new roof, remodeled bathrooms, new kitchen counters and flooring. The Eat-in Kitchen has sliders out to the deck. The spacious Family Room has a fireplace. Full walk out basement is ready for your finishing if desired. Some other features include first floor laundry, Central Air, 200 Amp. Electric with automatic whole house generator. A short walk down the street to Viney Hill Brook Park with over 100 Acres, 30 acres of which devoted to active recreation. *** Photos are edited with furniture and items cleared out of each room ***

15 Nutmeg Ln, Essex

$1,150,000

3 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 24210026 MLS

This charming and updated historic colonial is tucked away on a quiet road on 1.4 acres. The original two-story structure was built in the mid 1800s, and the additional first-story wing was later added in 1974. The main house has a cozy living room with a fireplace, a formal dining area with a window seat, reading room, a family room/den, and a powder room. The updated galley kitchen features upscale stainless-steel appliances, lots of cabinet space for storage, and plenty of counter space. There is a sunny breakfast nook just off of the kitchen. Upstairs are two bedrooms, including the primary with ensuite bath along with another bedroom and full bathroom. The addition offers a private and separate living space, with a kitchen, living room, bedroom with ensuite bath, a den and another full bathroom. As it is connected to the original house by a breezeway, it offers a good option for use an in-law apartment or for a multi-generational living arrangement. The main house has beautiful wide-plank floors and the apartment has hardwood floors. There is a spacious two-car garage located at the end of the addition. Outside is a lush mixture of mature landscaping, lawns, and shady trees. You can enjoy the outdoor setting from the covered front porch, a patio area off of the breakfast nook, or another patio by the pool area shaded by a vine-draped pergola leading directly to the sparkling in-ground gunite pool.

9 Ingham Hill Rd, Essex

$1,150,000

3 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 24208490 MLS

This elegant and updated historic colonial is tucked away on a quiet road on 1.4 acres. The original two-story structure was built in the mid 1800s, and the additional first-story wing was later added in 1974. The main house has a cozy living room with a fireplace, a formal dining area with a window seat, reading room, a family room/den, and a powder room. The updated galley kitchen features upscale stainless-steel appliances, lots of cabinet space for storage, and plenty of counter space. There is a sunny breakfast nook just off of the kitchen. Upstairs are two bedrooms, including the primary with ensuite bath along with another bedroom and full bathroom. The addition offers a private and separate living space, with a kitchen, living room, bedroom with ensuite bath, a den and another full bathroom. As it is connected to the original house by a breezeway, it offers a good option for use an in-law apartment or for a multi-generational living arrangement. The main house has beautiful wide-plank floors and the apartment has hardwood floors. There is a spacious two-car garage located at the end of the addition. Outside is a lush mixture of mature landscaping, lawns, and shady trees. You can enjoy the outdoor setting from the covered front porch, a patio area off of the breakfast nook, or another patio by the pool area shaded by a vine-draped pergola leading directly to the sparkling in-ground gunite pool.

9 Ingham Hill Rd, Essex

$599,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 24206762 MLS

Welcome home to this beautifully maintained Cape-style residence offering over 1,800 square feet of finished living space, including 1,370 square feet on the main and upper levels plus an additional 476 square feet in the finished lower level. The main floor features a newly remodeled kitchen complete with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, seamlessly flowing into the dining area and inviting living room. Large windows fill the home with an abundance of natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout. The entire second floor serves as your own private retreat, featuring a spacious primary suite with a full bathroom highlighted by a tiled shower and relaxing soaking tub. The finished lower level provides additional versatile living space perfect for a family room, home office, gym, or guest area, along with a second full bathroom for added convenience. With its flexible layout, the lower level also offers excellent potential for an in-law suite, multigenerational living arrangement, or private guest quarters. Outside, enjoy your morning coffee on the charming farmer's porch or entertain family and friends on the large rear deck overlooking the backyard. Combining modern updates, flexible living space, and classic Cape-style charm, this home is ready for its next owner to move right in and enjoy.

32 Sunset Ter, Essex

$489,999

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 24209577 MLS

Welcome to 89 Book Hill Road in the heart of Essex Village. This beautifully updated Cape offers a perfect blend of classic New England charm and modern comfort. Set on a private lot surrounded by mature trees, the home features a spacious and light-filled layout with hardwood floors, two fireplaces, and a flexible floor plan. The kitchen has been tastefully updated with modern finishes, flowing into a cozy dining area ideal for gatherings. Upstairs you'll find comfortable bedrooms with ample storage, while the finished lower level adds versatile space for a family room, home office, or gym. Enjoy the convenience of central air, a walk-out basement, and an attached two-car garage. The property also offers a large yard perfect for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or simply relaxing. Located just minutes from the shops, restaurants, and waterfront of Essex Village, this home provides easy access to Route 9, local marinas, and top-rated schools including Essex Elementary and Valley Regional High School. Whether you're seeking a full-time residence or a weekend retreat, 89 Book Hill Road is ready to welcome its next owner.

89 Book Hill Rd, Essex

$1,195,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 24205638 MLS

This immaculate home is set back on a large lot far from the road for maximum privacy, creating a serene personal nature reserve tucked away under a canopy of trees. With clean lines and contemporary finishes with a nod to mid-century modern, it is a classically versatile design. Inside, floor to ceiling windows allow natural light to spill in from every direction further showcasing the natural beauty of the lush surroundings. An open floorplan creates an easy flow, starting with a living area with a fireplace and wet bar, a formal dining area leading to a well-equipped kitchen with beautiful wooden cabinetry, upscale appliances and walk in pantry. Just off the kitchen work area is a breakfast nook and a large family room with built-in bookshelves. There are also two more private rooms that are currently used as offices, and a laundry and powder room. A spacious deck at the back of the house leads to a patio area surrounded by mature landscaping. Upstairs, the primary suite includes an ensuite bathroom, and three more bedrooms with another bathroom. There is another family/recreation/media room in the basement, a two-car garage, and an outdoor garden shed. This inviting private retreat is located just minutes from downtown Essex Village and all it has to offer, including restaurants, shopping, and yacht clubs.

31 Book Hill Rd, Essex

$928,000

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 24207147 MLS

Born in 1835. Reimagined for life today. Expanded to over 2,950 sq. feet, the new floor plan emphasizes light, proportion, and seamless flow from one room to the next. At its center, a beautifully composed chef's kitchen pairs a waterfall island with white cabinetry and an oversized walk-in pantry, making entertaining feel wonderfully uncomplicated. The adjoining vaulted great room is the home's defining gesture: window-lined and grounded by dramatic millwork. Three en-suite bedrooms invite family and friends to settle in with privacy. The primary suite offers two walk-in closets, while a generous upstairs lounge can easily serve as a library, office, or media room. A second-floor laundry adds discreet modern practicality. Beneath the polished interiors of an 8-month transformation, including a new roof, siding, plumbing, kitchen, baths, hardwood floors, and a Trex deck. Set on .85 acres next to the protected landscape of Bushy Hill Preserve, the property feels quietly removed while remaining close to Essex shoreline marinas, beaches, and notable restaurants-a country house with a sense of occasion and history without compromise.

60 Bushy Hill Rd, Essex

$810,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 24206493 MLS

Private location, move in ready Essex Village ranch on a large level landscaped lot, set back from the road. Lots of privacy. Walk to restaurants, shops, library, parks and CT River. Remodeled 36x10 sunroom / dining area with wall of sliders. Finished lower level family room, guest room and full bathroom. 690 square feet not included in the square feet. Total of 1914 square feet. Oversized shed w electricity for a handyman or artist studio. Agent related to owner.

Essex

$499,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 24200706 MLS

Welcome to 18 Orchard Heights Road, a charming modified saltbox colonial located at the end of a cul-de-sac in a desirable neighborhood. This home offers exceptional convenience, located just minutes from the boutique shops and historic charm of downtown Essex, with quick access to the vast amenities, dining, and shoreline conveniences of neighboring Old Saybrook. Inside, the home features a light-filled, functional layout designed for seamless main-level living including a first-floor primary suite, dedicated laundry space, and a recently updated kitchen with quartz countertops, stainless appliances, and ample cabinetry. A spacious family room opens to a private deck, located at the rear of the property. The second floor boasts two more bedrooms and a full bath with an additional 600 square feet (per tax card) of unfinished space, presenting an incredible opportunity to create a second primary suite, home office, play area, or bonus room tailored to your needs. Combining timeless character, thoughtful updates, and an unbeatable location near the best of the Lower Connecticut River Valley, 18 Orchard Heights Road is ready to welcome its next owners home.

18 Orchard Heights Rd, Essex

$535,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 24200944 MLS

Welcome to 11 Ebony Lane, a spacious 4-bedroom Colonial set on over an acre in the desirable Ivoryton Woods neighborhood of Essex. Offering a wonderful floor plan with 9-foot ceilings on the main level, this home features an eat-in kitchen that opens seamlessly to the family room, where sliding doors lead to a large private deck overlooking the level backyard-perfect for outdoor dining, entertaining, or simply enjoying the peaceful setting. Beautiful hardwood floors enhance the inviting living and dining spaces, while the front-to-back living room features a fireplace and plenty of natural light. A first-floor bedroom provides wonderful flexibility and could easily serve as a home office, den, guest room, or playroom. Upstairs are three additional bedrooms, including a generously sized primary bedroom with a private full bath. There is a full basement with more room for a home gym or workshop. A top-of-the-line Buderus furnace was installed approximately 4 years ago, and the roof is approx. 11 years old. An attached two-car garage provides additional storage, and the expansive, level lot offers plenty of room for gardening, recreation, and outdoor enjoyment. Located just minutes from the charming villages of Ivoryton and historic Essex, with easy access to restaurants, shops, marinas, the Connecticut River, and all that the Connecticut River Valley has to offer. **Please note: the central air conditioning system is currently in need of a new compressor.**

11 Ebony Ln, Essex

$695,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 24203941 MLS

Welcome to Windswept Ridge, one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Essex. First time offered by original owners, this 4-bedroom 3 bath Cape has great curb appeal. One floor living is possible with a first-floor bedroom and shower bath. Beautiful oak floors and nine-foot ceilings enhance the main living areas. The upper primary bedroom features spacious walk in closet and full bath with whirlpool tub. An added feature is a large office or exercise room off the primary bedroom. There is a workshop/art studio off the 2-car garage for the hobbyist. The roof and AC condenser are new. The deck is original and is showing its age. Some other cosmetics needed as well. At the end of the Cul de sac is Essex Land Trust trails.

8 Windermere Way, Essex

$625,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 24201184 MLS

Welcom to a charming custom home in Historic Ivoryton. Set within the quiet, historic village of Ivoryton, this custom one-owner home offers a wonderful blend of comfort, versatility, and charm, all tucked away on a peaceful low traffic street. With flexible spaces throughout, the home is especially well suited to today's lifestyle, offering the possibility of two dedicated office spaces-one on the first floor and another upstairs. These versatile rooms could also serve as a craft room, artist's studio, hobby space, or whatever best suits your needs. The inviting first floor features a spacious living and dining area that flows naturally into a functional kitchen with quartz countertops. Just off the kitchen, an oversized pantry provides an exceptional amount of storage, complete with built-in shelving to keep everything organized and easily accessible. This home also features a first floor master bedroom with a full bath. One of the home's standout features is the beautiful sunroom/den, where expansive floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with natural light and create a wonderful connection to the outdoors. A wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and character, making this an ideal spot to relax in any season. When warmer weather arrives, enjoy outdoor living from the generous screened porch or the new (composite) deck, both overlooking the open backyard. A mature, tree-lined perimeter provides a peaceful and private setting.

5 Northwinds Dr, Essex

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