📍 Location & Geography
Arlington is a town located in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, United States. It is situated approximately six miles northwest of Boston. The town is bordered by the cities of Medford to the northeast, Somerville and Cambridge to the east, Belmont to the south, and Lexington to the west. Arlington covers a total area of 5.5 square miles, of which 5.2 square miles is land and 0.3 square miles is water.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographic coordinates of Arlington, Massachusetts are approximately 42.4154° N latitude and 71.1564° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Arlington is part of the Greater Boston region, which is the metropolitan area of New England around the city of Boston. The town is divided into several neighborhoods including Arlington Heights, Arlington Center, East Arlington, and others.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2020 census, the population of Arlington was approximately 45,000. The town has a diverse population with a mix of races and ethnicities. The majority of the population is White, followed by Asian, Hispanic or Latino, African American, and other races. The median age in Arlington is around 42 years.
🏛️ History
Arlington was first settled by European colonists in 1635 as a village within the boundaries of Cambridge, Massachusetts under the name Menotomy. It played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, being the site of many battles. In 1867, it was incorporated as a town and renamed Arlington in honor of those buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Arlington boasts several parks and green spaces, including the Menotomy Rocks Park, Spy Pond Park, and Robbins Farm Park. The town is also home to the Mystic River and Mystic Lakes, which provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Arlington’s commitment to the environment is evident in its recycling programs and energy conservation efforts.
🏫 Education
Arlington Public Schools operates the public schools in the town, which include seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school – Arlington High School. The town also has several private schools. For higher education, residents have access to the many colleges and universities in the Greater Boston area.
🚧 Transportation
Arlington is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) with several bus routes connecting the town to nearby cities. While the town does not have its own MBTA subway station, the Alewife station on the Red Line is located nearby in Cambridge. Major roads in Arlington include Massachusetts Avenue and Route 2.
📜 Trivia & Events
Arlington is known for its rich history and hosts several events throughout the year to celebrate its heritage, including Patriots’ Day reenactments. The town is also home to the Cyrus Dallin Art Museum, which showcases the work of the noted sculptor and Arlington resident Cyrus Dallin. The Arlington International Film Festival is another notable event, attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world.