Largest cities in Massachusetts

Massachusetts, known for its rich colonial history and vibrant culture, is a state that offers a diverse range of living experiences. With a population of approximately 6.9 million, it ranks as the 15th most populated state in the U.S. Massachusetts has seen stable population growth, driven by its robust economy and high quality of life. Bordered by New Hampshire and Vermont to the north, New York to the west, Connecticut and Rhode Island to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Massachusetts offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 350 cities and towns.

Living in Massachusetts provides numerous benefits, including access to world-class education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's high population density in major urban areas creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, while its rural areas offer tranquility and space. Massachusetts's economy is diverse, with strengths in technology, education, and healthcare. The state's stable population growth supports a robust and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Massachusetts, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Massachusetts cities by population, showcasing the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

Boston Population: 689,326 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 125 KM² Density (sq mi): 14,260 Med. Household Income: $76,298

Boston, MA, known as 'The Cradle of Liberty,' offers a rich historical and cultural experience that is both unique and appealing. Located in the northeastern United States, Boston is a large city with a significant role in American history. Major nearby cities like Cambridge and Quincy enhance its status as a central hub in the New England region. Boston's blend of historical significance and modern amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Worcester Population: 185,186 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 97 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,957 Med. Household Income: $51,647

Worcester, MA, known as "The Heart of the Commonwealth," is renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Located in central Massachusetts, Worcester is approximately 45 miles west of Boston and 40 miles north of Providence, RI. This medium-sized city offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a desirable place to live.

Springfield Population: 153,677 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 83 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,822 Med. Household Income: $41,571

Springfield, MA, known as "The City of Firsts," is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant community. Located in western Massachusetts, Springfield is approximately 90 miles west of Boston and 25 miles north of Hartford, CT. This medium-sized city is celebrated for its significant contributions to American history, beautiful parks, and thriving arts scene.

Cambridge Population: 117,822 Livability Score: 86

Area Size: 17 KM² Density (sq mi): 18,420 Med. Household Income: $107,490

Cambridge, Massachusetts, known as "The City of Squares," is a vibrant and historic city located just across the Charles River from Boston. Home to two of the world's most prestigious universities, Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment. The city's rich history, cultural diversity, and academic excellence make living in Cambridge an attractive option.

Lowell Population: 111,311 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 35 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,178 Med. Household Income: $62,196

Lowell, Massachusetts, known as "The Mill City," is a historic and culturally rich community located in the Merrimack Valley. With its significant industrial heritage, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community, Lowell offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Lowell an attractive option.

Brockton Population: 95,740 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 55 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,488 Med. Household Income: $62,249

Brockton, MA, known as 'The City of Champions,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Plymouth County, Brockton is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Boston (25 miles) and Providence, RI (33 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Brockton's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

New Bedford Population: 95,355 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 52 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,768 Med. Household Income: $48,999

New Bedford, MA, known as 'The Whaling City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Bristol County, New Bedford is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Providence, RI (30 miles) and Boston (60 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. New Bedford's blend of scenic waterfronts, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Quincy Population: 94,389 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 5,695 Med. Household Income: $80,462

Quincy, MA - The City of Presidents"; echo "

Lynn Population: 94,201 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 8,772 Med. Household Income: $61,329

Lynn, MA - The City of Firsts"; echo "

Fall River Population: 89,618 Livability Score: 60

Area Size: 86 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,706 Med. Household Income: $46,007

Fall River, MA - The Spindle City"; echo "

Full list of the largest cities in Massachusetts

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Boston	689,326	125	$76,298	77
2	Worcester	185,186	97	$51,647	80
3	Springfield	153,677	83	$41,571	75
4	Cambridge	117,822	17	$107,490	86
5	Lowell	111,311	35	$62,196	81
6	Brockton	95,740	55	$62,249	73
7	New Bedford	95,355	52	$48,999	65
8	Quincy	94,389	43	$80,462	81
9	Lynn	94,201	28	$61,329	75
10	Fall River	89,618	86	$46,007	60
11	Newton	88,322	46	$154,398	84
12	Somerville	81,175	11	$102,311	84
13	Lawrence	80,022	18	$45,045	70
14	Framingham	72,846	65	$86,322	76
15	Haverhill	63,783	86	$69,237	74
16	Waltham	62,597	33	$95,851	80
17	Malden	60,710	13	$73,399	83
18	Brookline	59,223	18	$113,642	85
19	Medford	58,290	21	$101,168	82
20	Taunton	57,327	121	$63,433	75
21	Weymouth Town	57,213	43	$85,536	85
22	Chicopee	55,186	59	$52,702	76
23	Revere	53,400	15	$68,331	73
24	Peabody	53,004	42	$80,681	78
25	Methuen Town	50,518	58	$83,527	73
26	Everett	46,275	9	$70,627	80
27	Arlington	45,379	13	$114,576	88
28	Attleboro	45,023	69	$77,107	67
29	Barnstable Town	44,497	155	$77,227	67
30	Salem	43,350	21	$66,428	82
31	Pittsfield	42,514	105	$56,620	74
32	Beverly	42,062	39	$84,354	68
33	Leominster	41,581	75	$63,119	68
34	Westfield	41,303	120	$74,456	73
35	Fitchburg	40,576	72	$54,683	68
36	Woburn	40,297	33	$92,084	81
37	Holyoke	40,161	55	$42,537	64
38	Chelsea	39,878	6	$60,370	76
39	Marlborough	39,663	54	$83,469	76
40	Braintree Town	37,196	36	$101,544	84
41	Watertown Town	35,749	10	$100,434	88
42	Franklin Town	33,644	69	$118,193	84
43	Randolph	33,526	25	$65,316	77
44	Lexington	33,304	43	$185,686	92
45	Needham	31,177	32	$174,707	84
46	Gloucester	30,291	68	$76,260	71
47	Norwood	29,446	27	$90,341	89
48	Wellesley	28,747	26	$213,684	85
49	Agawam Town	28,627	60	$72,396	75
50	Northampton	28,552	89	$71,866	79

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Massachusetts, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.