Massachusetts has a long political history; earlier political structures included the Mayflower Compact of 1620, the separate Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth colonies, and the combined colonial Province of Massachusetts.

News & updates 2026 FIFA World Cup Massachusetts is ready for the 2026 FIFA World Cup!

Geographical and historical treatment of Massachusetts, constituent state (officially called a commonwealth) of the United States, located in the northeastern corner of the country.

Massachusetts is a state in the United States' northeastern region, in a region that is nicknamed " New England." It occupies 10,565 mi² and borders four other states: Connecticut to the south, Rhode Island to the east, New Hampshire to the north, and Vermont to the northwest.

Description: This map shows states boundaries, the state capital, counties, county seats, cities, towns, and islands in Massachusetts.

With a violent crime rate of 608.7 per 100,000 people, the city's violent crime rate is higher than Massachusetts' rate of 322 per 100,000 people and the national rate of 380.7 per 100,000 people.

Travel together. Explore a variety of activities for families from unique museums, to historic towns, to outdoor adventures, and more across Massachusetts.

Massachusetts (MA) is located in the northeastern United States, a major hub for education and innovation. The capital and largest city of Massachusetts is Boston, home to prestigious MIT and Harvard. The state’s economy is driven by technology companies, health care, and finance.

In Massachusetts, we solve the big problems facing our world. We’re home to the brightest minds curing diseases, fighting climate change, applying AI for good, and educating young talent.

But if you want to narrow it down a little, our travel guide has some must-sees for each region in Massachusetts, a highway map, and some really pretty photos. To receive a free Massachusetts Travel Guide in the mail, please fill out this form.