📍 Location & Geography
North Reading is a town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated in the northeastern part of the state, approximately 21 miles north of downtown Boston. The town is bordered by Andover to the north, Wilmington to the south, Reading to the southwest, and Middleton to the northeast. The Ipswich River flows through the northern part of the town, providing a beautiful natural landscape.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for North Reading are 42.5751° N latitude and 71.0787° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
North Reading is part of the Greater Boston area, which is the largest metropolitan area in New England. The town covers a total area of 13.5 square miles, of which 13.2 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, North Reading had a population of approximately 15,762. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 44.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, accounting for about 94.7% of the population, followed by Asian at 2.4%, and small percentages of other races.
🏛️ History
North Reading was first settled in 1651 as a part of the town of Reading. The area was known as the “north precinct” and it functioned as a parish before it was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1853. The town’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture and shoemaking.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
North Reading is known for its scenic beauty, with the Ipswich River and numerous ponds, forests, and parks providing opportunities for outdoor activities. The town is home to Harold Parker State Forest, a large state park that offers hiking, fishing, and camping. The Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary is also nearby, offering a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities.
🏫 Education
North Reading is served by the North Reading Public Schools district, which includes an Early Childhood Center, two elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The town is also in close proximity to several colleges and universities, including Merrimack College and Salem State University.
🚧 Transportation
The town is served by Massachusetts Route 28, which provides direct access to Boston and other parts of the state. Public transportation is provided by the Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority, which operates bus routes in the area. The nearest train station is located in neighboring Reading, providing commuter rail service to Boston. The closest major airport is Logan International Airport in Boston.
📜 Trivia & Events
North Reading hosts several community events throughout the year, including the annual Apple Festival and the summer Concerts on the Common series. The town is also home to the Hillview Country Club, a public golf course that was once a ski area. Notably, North Reading is one of the few towns in Massachusetts without a single traffic light.