Worcester, MA
Why You’ll Love Living in Worcester, Massachusetts
Worcester, Massachusetts, is the Central Massachusetts hub for education, health care, retail, entertainment and transportation. The second-largest metro in Massachusetts has an intriguing 300-year history, an innovative present and a bright future. The fast-growing community offers abundant career opportunities and plenty to do all year round. This attractive setting pulls in a diverse workforce from not only around the region but worldwide.
Thinking of moving to Worcester, MA? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Worcester, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Worcester, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Worcester, MA, a Best Place to Live in 2024
There’s a lot to love about Worcester, MA. As the “Heart of the Commonwealth,” this city of approximately 200,000 people brings a sense of commitment to all that it offers. That starts with being a quintessential college town with eight higher education institutions. Those range from College of the Holy Cross and Clark University to UMass Medical School and Worcester State University, with a student population of 35,000!
And there are plenty of career opportunities to keep them there, too, including those in advanced manufacturing, robotics, biotech, computer sciences and health care. Worcester is known as an innovative city – both the rocket and birth control pill were invented here. Furthermore, Worcester’s slew of amenities also entices, with attractions such as the Worcester Art Museum, Mechanics Hall (a premiere concert venue), more than 60 parks and four minor-league sports teams. So, it’s no surprise that Worcester is one of the best places to live in the U.S.
The culinary scene is expanding, with neighborhoods such as Shrewsbury Street, The Canal District and Park Avenue offering up a delectable array of eateries and coffee shops. Having a heart for art is also in Worcester’s DNA, with striking public murals, art galleries (check out the ones at area universities), and museums that highlight history, regional art and crafts.
Worcester, MA Quality of Life LivScore
Worcester, MA Top Categories
Amenities
Education
Housing & Cost of Living
Worcester ranks highest for amenities, education and housing.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Worcester, MA
Very snowy winters make you feel like you earned the summers, which are magical. The average highs and lows are 77°F and 62°F (summer) and 38°F and 22°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Worcester is 59 inches. The city has cold and snowy winters, with the highest chances of snowfall in January and February.
The average annual rainfall in Worcester is 48 inches.
Worcester averages 197 sunny days a year.
Visit the quaint Newton Hill at Elm Park, a historic public park established in 1854. Numerous historic structures can be spotted around the picturesque tree-lined trails. You can also spend your weekends exploring the more than five dozen parks in the region. Some noteworthy ones include Salisbury Park, where you’ll find the 56-foot-tall stone and granite Bancroft Tower, which looks like a mini feudal castle, and Quinsigamond State Park, where you can sail or swim at Regatta Point.
Things To Do in Worcester, MA
Spend an afternoon at the Worcester Art Museum. Admission is free on the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the museum has a vast collection of artwork from a variety of cultures and periods.
Don’t miss the EcoTarium, a science and nature museum with three floors chock-full of fascinating exhibits – including animal habitats.
There are plenty of things you need to know about Worcester, but most importantly, Worcester is for lovers. According to folklore, Worcester resident Esther Howland received an English valentine, which inspired her to design her own. Worcester went on to become, well, the heart of the commercial valentine industry for a century. And there’s always something to smile about here. No, seriously! Harvey Ball, an ad exec in Worcester, invented the smiley face.
Head to the Worcester Public Market. “[This is] a year-round indoor market featuring local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products and more,” says Samanjar Ashraf, marketing specialist for Discover Central Massachusetts.
Work your way through the 40 different kinds of tapas on the menu at Bocado Tapas Bar.
Built in 1904 and claiming to have something for everyone, The Hanover Theatre & Conservatory for the Performing Arts is a beautiful venue that offers a wide range of music, dance, theater and other performances.
Peppercorn’s Grille & Tavern on Park Avenue is a hot spot for not only some seriously good Italian eats – we’re looking at you, thin-crust pizza – but also for happy hour deals and excellent cocktails.
The Local and State Economy in Worcester, MA
Worcester has a diverse economy with a range of industries that contribute to the city’s growth and development, including health care and life sciences, education, and manufacturing. Hanover Insurance, Worcester Public Schools and UMass Memorial Health Care are among the largest employers.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Worcester is 6.25%.
Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax.
Worcester residents are in good health. UMass Memorial Medical Center is rated high performing in 11 adult procedures and conditions. The hospital is part of the UMass Memorial Health Care system, which offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, cancer care, heart and vascular care, neurology and orthopedics.
There are several colleges and universities in Worcester, including Clark University, Worcester State University and Quinsigamond Community College.
Weather in Worcester, MA
Average Temperatures
58 High / 41 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
48 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
59 Inches
Quick Facts about Worcester, Massachusetts
- Median Home Value
- $323,479
- Median Property Tax
- $2,483
- Total Population
- 199,592
- Average Commute
- 20 min
- Median Household Income
- $69,039
- Median Rent per Month
- $1,070
Map of Worcester, MA
Experiences & Adventures in Worcester, MA
Enjoy 4 Seasons of Fun Activities in Worcester, MA
From disc golf and ice skating to boating and golf, you have plenty of outstanding options for year-round fun.
5 Fun Things to Do in Worcester, MA
Discover regional attractions in Worcester the whole family can enjoy.
The Arts are Alive in Worcester, MA
Worcester creates a vibrant and diverse cultural mosaic for residents.
Food Scenes in Worcester, MA
Find Fabulous Farm-to-Table Fare in Worcester, MA
The food scene in Worcester is deeply rooted in locally grown products.
Take a Bite Out of Worcester’s Foodie Scene
Discover authentic flavors and dishes from all around the globe in Worcester's backyard.
Whet Your Whistle with this Local Worcester Business
Homegrown Polar Beverages expands its beverage.
Healthy Places in Worcester, MA
In Good Health: All is Well in Worcester
Outside-the-box thinking elevates health care in Worcester, MA.
Ready for a Refill? How Two Cities are Promoting Sustainability Through Refilleries
Two new refilleries offer better ways for people to reduce their plastic consumption.
Worcester’s Food Hub Keeps Food Fresh and Local for All
The Food Hub’s endeavors nourish more than just the physical.
Make Your Move to Worcester, MA
6 Neighborhoods That Will Make You Want to Move to Worcester, MA, Right Now
Charming neighborhoods and vibrant communities offer an assortment of fun things to do in Worcester.
Worcester, MA: Where to Live Now
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Education, Careers and Opportunity in Worcester, MA
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Colleges and Universities in Worcester: So Many Choices!
Students will not have to venture far to score a top-notch higher education at one of the region's 12 colleges and universities.
Worcester, MA: Love Where You Live
Right at Home: Worcester, MA, is a Welcoming, Inclusive Environment
Worcester, MA, thrives as a diverse, vibrant and inclusive community.
Worcester, MA, is Creating A Diverse Community
The rapidly growing region is ripe for new neighbors from all walks of life and welcomes immigrants with open arms.
Worcester, MA Warmly Welcomes All
Worcester, MA has a long history of being LGBTQ+-friendly city.