Malden, Massachusetts
Located in the heart of Middlesex County, Malden is a vibrant city within the Greater Boston area. Known for its hilly woodlands and deep historical roots, Malden has evolved from a small Puritan settlement into a diverse urban center. With a population of 66,263 as of the 2020 census, the city blends a rich colonial heritage with a modern, multicultural identity.
Key Facts
- Founded: Settled in 1640; incorporated as a town in 1649.
- Location: Middlesex County, Massachusetts, north of the Mystic River.
- Population: 66,263 (2020 Census).
- Government: Mayor-council system.
- Geography: Total area of 5.08 square miles, bordered by the Middlesex Fells.
- Demonym: Maldonian.
History and Origins
Malden was settled in 1640 by Puritans on land purchased from the Mystic tribe of the Pawtucket Confederation. Originally known as the "Mistick Side" and serving as part of Charlestown, it was incorporated as a separate town in 1649 under the name "Mauldon." The name was chosen by early settler Joseph Hills, who named it after Maldon, England.
In its early years, Malden was much larger, encompassing the areas that would later become the cities of Melrose (which split in 1850) and Everett (which split in 1870).
During the American Revolution, Malden's population was approximately 1,000 residents. The community was an early center of resistance against British rule; in 1770, citizens boycotted tea to protest the Revenue Act of 1766. Notably, Malden was the first town to petition the colonial government to secede from the British Empire.
Geography and Infrastructure
The city covers a total area of 5.1 square miles, with the vast majority being land (5.1 sq mi) and a small fraction being water (0.04 sq mi). The landscape is characterized by the cliffs of the Middlesex Fells to the northwest and is drained by the Malden River.
Transportation in Malden is anchored by U.S. Route 1, a limited-access route connecting Boston to the North Shore suburbs. Other key arterial routes include Route 28, Route 60, and Route 99, while Interstate 93 remains easily accessible just outside city borders.
Demographics and Diversity
Malden is recognized as one of the most diverse cities in Massachusetts. This diversity is particularly evident in its immigrant population; as of 2010, 37% of residents were born outside the United States, the second-highest proportion in the state after Chelsea.
Historically, the city welcomed Italian and Irish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, as well as Jewish refugees escaping Europe around World War II. In recent decades, there has been a significant increase in the Asian population. Between 1990 and 2000, the Vietnamese and Indian populations grew by 187% and 262%, respectively.
Population Trends
| Year | Population | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1790 | 1,033 | — |
| 1850 | 3,520 | +40.0% |
| 1900 | 33,664 | +46.2% |
| 1950 | 59,804 | +3.1% |
| 2000 | 56,340 | +4.6% |
| 2020 | 66,263 | +11.5% |
According to the 2020 census, the racial composition of the city includes 41.4% White, 25.9% Asian, 14.7% Black or African American, and 10.4% Hispanic or Latino residents.
City Neighborhoods and Landmarks
One of Malden's most distinct areas is Bellrock, located in the south-central section of the city. This neighborhood is home to the Bell Rock Memorial Park and Bell Rock Cemetery, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery contains graves dating back to 1670 and was known as "Sandy Bank" before being renamed in 1882.
Other notable landmarks and institutions include Malden High School and the Malden Auditorium, both of which have served as community pillars for over a century.
Government and Politics
Malden operates under a mayor-council government. The mayor is elected to a four-year term. As of May 2021, the city is led by Mayor Gary Christenson, who was most recently elected on November 5, 2023, for a term ending in 2027.
Political enrollment in the city shows a strong lean toward unaffiliated voters. As of February 1, 2025, 63.11% of registered voters are unaffiliated, while 31.57% are registered Democrats and 4.54% are Republicans.
Notable Residents
Malden has been home to a wide array of influential figures across various fields:
- Arts and Entertainment: Award-winning actors Jack Albertson and Walter Brennan, singer-songwriter Gary Cherone, and artist Frank Stella.
- Literature and Journalism: Author Erle Stanley Gardner (creator of Perry Mason) and journalist Kevin Cullen.
- Science and Academia: Nobel Laureate economist Eugene Fama and astrophysicist Sheperd Doeleman.
- Public Service: Former Governor of Massachusetts and U.S. Ambassador to Italy John A. Volpe, and U.S. Senator Ed Markey.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Malden, Massachusetts founded?
Malden was settled by Puritans in 1640 and was officially incorporated as a separate town in 1649.
What is the current population of Malden?
As of the 2020 U.S. Census, the population was 66,263 people.
Which cities were originally part of Malden?
The city originally included the areas that are now the cities of Melrose (until 1850) and Everett (until 1870).
What makes Malden's demographics unique?
Malden has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents in Massachusetts, with 37% of the population born outside the U.S. as of 2010.
Who is the current mayor of Malden?
The current mayor is Gary Christenson, who is serving a term that expires at the end of 2027.