worcester county

Are you visiting the Worcester metro area or considering moving to central Massachusetts? Whether you’re planning a new home or building an exciting itinerary, exploring the largest cities in Worcester County is an excellent way to start!

Worcester County, Massachusetts Demographics

Worcester County, Massachusetts, is one of 14 counties in the state and the second-largest by area. It’s home to some of the oldest cities in the country, with a rich history that spans the Colonial era to the Industrial Revolution.

Worcester County is known for its blend of urban, suburban, and rural environments, making it a versatile region for all types of lifestyles.

Where is Worcester County, MA?

Located in the central part of the state, Worcester County is bordered by Middlesex, Norfolk, and Hampden counties in Massachusetts, and shares a border with New Hampshire and Connecticut. The county includes a mix of hilly landscapes, charming rural towns, and dynamic cities. Worcester, the largest city in the county, serves as its central hub.

Worcester County Demographics:

  • Population: 862,111
  • Area: 1,579 square miles
  • Population density: 546 people per square mile
  • Median age: 40.2
  • Median household income: $77,468
  • Median home price: $400,000
  • Educational attainment: 92% high school grad or higher; 41% bachelor’s degree or higher

Worcester

worcester ma

  • Population: 206,518
  • Area: 38.6 square miles
  • Population density: 5,350 people per square mile
  • Median age: 34.6
  • Median household income: $51,647
  • Median home price: $350,000

Worcester, the second-largest city in Massachusetts, is known as the “Heart of the Commonwealth.” As a center for education and healthcare, it’s home to nine colleges and universities, including the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Worcester boasts many parks, art museums, and the historic Mechanics Hall.

Looking to move to Worcester? Mastodon Moving provides local moving help in Worcester, MA


Fitchburg

  • Population: 41,946
  • Area: 28.1 square miles
  • Population density: 1,494 people per square mile
  • Median age: 37.5
  • Median household income: $54,225
  • Median home price: $289,000

Fitchburg is a historic industrial city known for its vibrant arts scene, exemplified by the Fitchburg Art Museum. It’s also home to Fitchburg State University and provides access to scenic outdoor spots, including Coggshall Park and the Nashua River.


Leominster

  • Population: 43,782
  • Area: 29.8 square miles
  • Population density: 1,468 people per square mile
  • Median age: 40.8
  • Median household income: $65,638
  • Median home price: $320,000

Leominster, the birthplace of the plastic industry, is known for its small-town charm and cultural heritage. The Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center pays homage to one of the city’s most famous residents. Leominster offers a blend of suburban living and proximity to outdoor activities like hiking at Sholan Farms.


Shrewsbury

  • Population: 38,325
  • Area: 21.7 square miles
  • Population density: 1,765 people per square mile
  • Median age: 42.3
  • Median household income: $103,576
  • Median home price: $480,000

Located just east of Worcester, Shrewsbury offers easy access to city amenities while maintaining a suburban feel. The town is known for excellent schools, lakeside living, and parks like Dean Park, offering picturesque views of Lake Quinsigamond.


Gardner

  • Population: 20,607
  • Area: 23 square miles
  • Population density: 895 people per square mile
  • Median age: 43.2
  • Median household income: $53,841
  • Median home price: $260,000

Gardner, known as the “Chair City,” is a former industrial hub famous for furniture manufacturing. Its affordable housing and proximity to the Wachusett Mountain Ski Area make it an attractive place for both families and outdoor enthusiasts.


Southbridge

  • Population: 16,719
  • Area: 20.9 square miles
  • Population density: 800 people per square mile
  • Median age: 41.5
  • Median household income: $49,291
  • Median home price: $245,000

Southbridge, nestled near the Connecticut border, has a rich industrial past and is home to the historic American Optical Company. The town is a gateway to both outdoor recreation and cultural sites, with close access to scenic spots like Westville Lake and the Wells State Park.


Webster

  • Population: 17,776
  • Area: 14.5 square miles
  • Population density: 1,226 people per square mile
  • Median age: 41.9
  • Median household income: $55,354
  • Median home price: $280,000

Webster is famous for its massive Webster Lake, whose full name, Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, is the longest place name in the U.S. The town offers watersports, lakeside parks, and a charming downtown filled with historic architecture.


Westborough

city data westborough ma

  • Population: 20,839
  • Area: 21.6 square miles
  • Population density: 963 people per square mile
  • Median age: 39.7
  • Median household income: $105,797
  • Median home price: $500,000

Westborough offers a mix of suburban life and business opportunities with proximity to Boston. It has a thriving technology sector and beautiful outdoor spaces like the Assabet River Rail Trail, perfect for biking and hiking.

Mastodon Moving is the largest moving company in Westborough MA and can help with any relocation needs in Westborough or surrounding areas


Largest Cities in Worcester County

Rank City Population Area (sq mi) Density (people/sq mi)
1 Worcester 206,518 38.6 5,350
2 Fitchburg 41,946 28.1 1,494
3 Leominster 43,782 29.8 1,468
4 Shrewsbury 38,325 21.7 1,765
5 Gardner 20,607 23 895
6 Southbridge 16,719 20.9 800
7 Webster 17,776 14.5 1,226
8 Westborough 20,839 21.6 963

Which Worcester County City is Right for You?

If you’re thinking of moving to Worcester County, any of these large cities could be the right fit for your lifestyle. Contact Mastodon Moving to help with your relocation to the area. Whether you’re moving locally or long-distance, we provide top-notch moving services to make your transition as smooth as possible.

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