According to the latest census data released recently, the overall population in Massachusetts has slightly increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, but there are 200 towns showing a decrease in population trend.
The U.S. Census Bureau announced population comparison data for towns in Massachusetts on May 16. Between April 1, 2020, and July 1, 2023, a total of 201 towns in Massachusetts experienced a decline in population, while 146 towns saw population growth, and 4 towns had their population remain relatively stable.
The total population in Massachusetts in 2023 has exceeded 7 million, slightly up from 6.894 million in 2020. Among them, Berlin recorded the largest population increase in the state, exceeding 8%. On the other hand, Shirley saw the largest decrease in population among towns, reaching nearly 8%. Additionally, the population of Boston has notably decreased.
The Census Bureau announced that towns in the northeast and central-west regions of Massachusetts generally experienced population growth between 2020 and 2023, reversing the previous declining trend.
Apart from Massachusetts, there has been minimal change in the ranking of the most populous cities in the United States. New York City continues to lead with a population of 8.3 million.
Population changes in some Massachusetts towns between 2020 and 2023:
Towns with population decrease:
– Shirley: -7.89%
– Revere: -6.84%
– Chelsea: -6.04%
– Winthrop: -5.19%
– Boston: -3.65%
– North Adams: -3.65%
– Florida: -2.46%
– Concord: -2.21%
– Tyringham: -2.10%
– Dalton: -2.07%
Towns with population increase:
– Berlin: 8.42%
– Plymouth: 6.84%
– Millis: 6.61%
– Rehoboth: 6.45%
– Lancaster: 4.33%
– Hopkinton: 4.14%
– Rutland: 4.04%
– Wellesley: 4.00%
– Upton: 3.89%
– Lakeville: 3.87%
This data reflects the changing population dynamics in Massachusetts and highlights both areas of growth and decline within the state.