Boston, first incorporated as a town in 1630, and as a city in 1822, is one of America's oldest cities, with a rich economic and social history. What began as a homesteading community eventually evolved into a center for social and political change. Boston has since become the economic and cultural hub of New England.
As the region's hub, Boston is home to over 617,000 residents, many institutions of higher education, some of the world's finest inpatient hospitals, and numerous cultural and professional sports organizations. Boston-based jobs, primarily within the finance, health care, educational, and service areas, numbered nearly 660,000 in 2002. Millions of people visit Boston to take in its historic neighborhoods, attend cultural or sporting events, and conduct business.
Population
617,594 (Official Estimate from U.S. Census Bureau, March 2011)
More Information from the 2010 Census
-
Weather
Boston's coastal climate offers residents and visitors four distinct seasons with spectacular storms and hot summer days.
-
City Flag
The municipal standard of the City of Boston, with continental buff and blue as main colors.
-
City Seal
The City Seal motto, to wit: Siet patribus sit Deus nobis: and that the inscription be as follows: - 'Bostonia condita, A.D. 1630. Civitatis regimine donata, A.D. 1822.'" The motto is taken from Kings viii, 557: GOD be with us as he was with our fathers."
-
Boston's Sister Cities
The Sister Cities Program began as a national concept in 1956, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower called for massive exchanges between Americans and people of other countries.
-
Neighborhoods
While many cities are defined by their skylines, Boston is distinguished by its vibrant neighborhoods. Indeed, Boston's strength, diversity and vitality are all rooted in her neighborhoods, where neighborhood pride and cultures from all over the world are cherished and celebrated. Although each neighborhood has its own personality and distinct appeal, all of the neighborhoods demonstrate Boston's changing face, as this historic capital has become a magnet for all of the world's citizens. These new immigrants have joined native Bostonians and transplants from across the country to make Boston the world-class city it is today.
-
Native Sons & Daughters
Throughout Bay State history, there have been a plethora of men and women who have left lasting legacies and paved the way for innovators of today. Browse a list of some notable native "movers and shakers" of the past and present.
-
Boston Firsts
A city full of wonder, Boston has played an innovative and central role in American history for over 300 years. Our city has made significant advances in everything from science and engineering to culture and society.
-
Facts & Trivia
Did you know the Ted Williams Tunnel is the deepest tunnel in North America? Learn about Boston facts and figures related to people, history, places, and more.
