Geography of Haverhill, Massachusetts
Haverhill, Massachusetts, is located in Essex County in the northeastern region of the state, approximately 35 miles north of Boston and about 17 miles west of the Atlantic Ocean. The city covers a total area of 35.6 square miles, with 33.0 square miles of land and 2.6 square miles of water. It is bordered by Methuen to the west, Groveland and Boxford to the south, West Newbury to the east, and the state of New Hampshire, including Plaistow and Atkinson, to the north. The Merrimack River, one of the city's most defining geographical features, flows through the southern part of Haverhill, providing both historical significance and modern recreational opportunities.
Haverhill's terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forested areas, wetlands, and bodies of water that contribute to its diverse landscape. The city features both urban and suburban environments, with a historic downtown district located along the river and residential neighborhoods stretching into the surrounding countryside. Several conservation areas and parks, including Winnekenni Park Conservation Area and Tattersall Farm, help preserve the natural beauty of Haverhill. The 700-acre Winnekenni Park surrounds Kenoza Lake, a significant reservoir that provides drinking water to the city. Other notable bodies of water include Plug Pond, Lake Saltonstall, and Millvale Reservoir, which support recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
Haverhill’s climate is classified as humid continental, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. The city's topography plays a role in its weather patterns, with the Merrimack River moderating temperatures in some areas while the hilly regions experience slightly more snowfall in winter. The city’s road network is shaped by its natural features, with Interstate 495 serving as a major transportation artery running through the western part of Haverhill. Route 125, Route 97, and Route 110 provide additional connectivity to surrounding towns and cities.
Overall, Haverhill’s geography blends urban development with natural landscapes, offering a mix of historic riverfront areas, suburban neighborhoods, and expansive green spaces. Its location near the Merrimack River, coupled with its conservation areas and access to major highways, makes it a city with both historical charm and modern accessibility.
Population of Haverhill, MA
As of the 2020 United States Census, Haverhill, Massachusetts, had a population of 67,787, reflecting a growth from 60,879 in 2010. The city's demographic composition includes approximately 69.9% White alone, 15.3% identifying as Two or More Races, 3.1% Black or African American alone, 1.3% Asian alone, and 0.2% American Indian and Alaska Native alone. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up 26.4% of the population.
The median age in Haverhill is 38.5 years, with individuals under 5 years comprising 5.5% of the population, those under 18 years at 21.5%, and residents 65 years and over accounting for 15.4%. The gender distribution is fairly balanced, with females representing 51.5% and males 48.5% of the population.
Regarding economic indicators, the median household income in Haverhill is $75,130, with a per capita income of $30,574. Approximately 10.8% of the population lives below the poverty line. The city has 26,300 households, with an average household size of 2.52 individuals.
Educational attainment in Haverhill shows that 90.5% of residents aged 25 and over have at least a high school diploma, and 31.6% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Additionally, 13.4% of the population are foreign-born, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.
These statistics illustrate Haverhill as a growing and diverse community with a balanced age distribution, varied racial and ethnic representation, and a solid foundation in educational attainment.