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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Massachusetts cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Boston, MA (Population: 653,833)
Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is one of America’s most historic and influential cities. Founded in 1630, it played a central role in the American Revolution, with sites such as the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and Freedom Trail drawing millions of visitors each year. Today, Boston is a global leader in education, with Harvard and MIT nearby, and in healthcare, technology, and finance. Its neighborhoods—from historic Beacon Hill to modern Seaport—offer a mix of culture, food, and entertainment.
Interesting Fact:
Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, dating back to 1912.
2. Worcester, MA (Population: 207,621)
Worcester, located in central Massachusetts, is often called the “Heart of the Commonwealth.” Known for its diverse economy, the city has strengths in education, healthcare, and biotechnology. Worcester is home to several universities, including Worcester Polytechnic Institute and Clark University. Cultural attractions include the Worcester Art Museum, mechanics hall, and vibrant restaurants and breweries.
Interesting Fact:
Worcester is the birthplace of the modern smiley face, created in 1963 by Harvey Ball, a local graphic designer.
3. Springfield, MA (Population: 153,672)
Springfield, located on the Connecticut River, is famous as the birthplace of basketball. The city is home to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and has a strong cultural and industrial history. It was a key center for manufacturing during the 19th century and remains an important regional hub. Springfield offers historic sites, museums, and nearby access to outdoor recreation.
Interesting Fact:
Dr. James Naismith invented the game of basketball in Springfield in 1891 while teaching at the YMCA.
4. Cambridge, MA (Population: 118,214)
Cambridge is internationally renowned as the home of Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The city is a hub for innovation, research, and biotech, with Kendall Square often called the most innovative square mile on Earth. Beyond academics, Cambridge features historic architecture, lively squares, and diverse dining and cultural attractions.
Interesting Fact:
Cambridge was the site of the first printing press in English North America, established in 1638 at Harvard.
5. Lowell, MA (Population: 114,296)
Lowell is known as the cradle of the American Industrial Revolution, with its textile mills shaping the nation’s early economy. Today, Lowell National Historical Park preserves this heritage, while the city also boasts a diverse cultural community with strong Cambodian-American influences. Lowell is home to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, which adds to its vibrancy.
Interesting Fact:
Jack Kerouac, author of *On the Road* and a leader of the Beat Generation, was born and raised in Lowell.
6. Brockton, MA (Population: 104,890)
Brockton, located south of Boston, is nicknamed the “City of Champions” for producing two world-famous boxers: Rocky Marciano and Marvin Hagler. Historically, Brockton was a major shoe manufacturing center, contributing significantly to the U.S. footwear industry. Today, it remains a diverse and active community with strong sports and cultural traditions.
Interesting Fact:
Brockton was one of the first U.S. cities to have a three-wire underground electrical system, installed by Thomas Edison in 1883.
7. Quincy, MA (Population: 101,597)
Quincy, just south of Boston, is known as the “City of Presidents” because it was the birthplace of John Adams and John Quincy Adams. It played a key role in early American shipbuilding and remains a mix of historic charm and modern development. Quincy’s waterfront and revitalized downtown make it an attractive place to live and visit.
Interesting Fact:
The first commercial railroad in the United States, the Granite Railway, began operating in Quincy in 1826.
8. Lynn, MA (Population: 101,241)
Lynn, located on the Atlantic coast north of Boston, has a rich industrial history, particularly in shoe manufacturing. Today, the city is revitalizing with a growing arts community and waterfront redevelopment. Lynn Woods Reservation, one of the largest municipal parks in the U.S., offers extensive outdoor recreation.
Interesting Fact:
Lynn is famous for the phrase “Lynn, Lynn, the city of sin,” a rhyme that became popular in the 20th century.
9. New Bedford, MA (Population: 100,695)
New Bedford, once known as the “Whaling City,” was the world’s leading whaling port during the 19th century. This heritage is preserved at the New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park. Today, the city’s economy includes fishing, renewable energy, and cultural institutions. Its seaport remains one of the most valuable commercial fishing ports in the nation.
Interesting Fact:
Herman Melville sailed out of New Bedford before writing his classic novel *Moby-Dick*.
10. Fall River, MA (Population: 93,840)
Fall River, located on Mount Hope Bay, has a history rooted in textile manufacturing. Known for Battleship Cove, a maritime museum featuring the USS Massachusetts, the city draws history buffs and tourists alike. Fall River is also recognized for its Portuguese-American community and cultural festivals.
Interesting Fact:
Fall River is where Lizzie Borden stood trial in 1893, accused (and acquitted) of murdering her father and stepmother.
