Cambridge is a city in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, right across the Charles River from Boston. As of the 2020 census, Cambridge has a population of 118,977 residents, making it the fifth most populous city in Massachusetts.
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 US census, Cambridge has a population of 118,977 residents. This is a nearly 10% increase from the 2010 census population of 105,162. The city has a population density of 18,830 people per square mile.
The racial makeup of Cambridge is 66% White, 12% Black or African American, 15% Asian, and 4% from two or more races. Hispanics and Latinos of any race make up 7% of the population. Over 25% of residents are foreign-born.
There are 47,291 households in the city, with an average household size of 2.11 people. 32% of households have children under 18. 63% of residents are between the ages of 18 and 64, while 10% are 65 or older.
Cambridge is a highly educated city, with over 70% of residents having a bachelor’s degree or higher. This is largely due to the presence of prestigious Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), which attract students and academics from around the world.
Economy and Major Employers
With its world-renowned universities and proximity to Boston, Cambridge has a strong innovation and biotech economy. Many tech and biotech companies are located in Cambridge or have offices there to take advantage of talent from Harvard and MIT.
According to data from the city, the largest employers in Cambridge are:
- Harvard University (14,949 employees)
- MIT (13,014 employees)
- Biogen (2,300 employees)
- Akamai Technologies (2,074 employees)
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research (1,800 employees)
- Mount Auburn Hospital (1,807 employees)
- City of Cambridge (1,592 employees)
- Cambridge Health Alliance (1,125 employees)
Other major companies with offices in Cambridge include Google, IBM, Pfizer, Microsoft, Amazon, Takeda, Facebook, and Draper. The MIT-originated Kendall Square area is a hub for biotech and IT companies.
The median household income in Cambridge is over $113,000, which is significantly higher than the national median. However, there is also income inequality present in the city.
Attractions and Tourism
Cambridge is a popular tourist destination in Massachusetts, known for its historic colleges as well as cultural attractions. Some top sites include:
- Harvard University and Harvard Square – Harvard is the oldest university in the United States, founded in 1636. Visitors can tour the campus, visit museums like the Harvard Museum of Natural History, and explore Harvard Square.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – MIT offers excellent architecture and museums like the MIT Museum, with interactive science and technology exhibits.
- Longfellow House-Washington’s Headquarters National Historic Site – This National Historic Landmark was home to poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and George Washington during the Revolutionary War.
- Lesley University Library – This library houses Painter Hall, a former 19th century church with stained glass windows.
- Cambridge Public Library – An architecturally significant building and the main public library, featuring programs, exhibits, and more.
In addition to historical attractions, Cambridge also has great restaurants, live music, art galleries, parks, and more. The city sees over 5 million visitors per year.
City Government
Cambridge has a city manager-city council form of government. The city manager, Louis A. DePasquale, oversees city operations. The city council is made up of 9 members who pass policies and budgets for the city.
Residents of Cambridge can get information about city government services, upcoming elections, permits, and more on the City of Cambridge website.
Sports
While Cambridge does not have any major professional sports teams, college athletics are hugely popular in the city. Harvard and MIT have one of the oldest football rivalries in the nation, playing since 1875.
Some popular teams based in Cambridge include:
- Harvard Crimson – Harvard’s athletic teams compete in the Ivy League at the NCAA Division I level. Sports include football, basketball, ice hockey, soccer, volleyball, and more across 41 varsity teams.
- MIT Engineers – MIT competes in the NEWMAC conference with 17 varsity teams. Sports include football, basketball, soccer, lacrosse, swimming, volleyball, and more.
- Boston Cannons – This Major League Lacrosse team plays at Harvard Stadium.
Major sports venues in Cambridge are Harvard Stadium, Lavietes Pavilion, and the Bright Hockey Center. Sports are an integral part of student and city culture.
Fans can follow Cambridge teams on the City of Cambridge Sports Facebook page.