Harvard University

location_on Massachusetts, United States school Private University

trophy #4 World Rank

public Verified Listing

About Harvard University

Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, established in 1636, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and influential alumni, Harvard consistently ranks among the world's top universities.

10k+ Students

7:1 Student-Faculty Ratio

No STEM Available

International Classification

location_city City, State & Campus Insights

Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around Harvard University

groups 1. City Size & State Population

City Name

Cambridge

City Area Size

18.47 sq km / 7.13 sq mi

City Population

118,403

State Population

7.0 Million

Density: 6,410 residents per sq km (16,600 per sq mi)

thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)

Jan

2°C

-6°C

36°F

Feb

3°C

-5°C

38°F

Mar

8°C

-1°C

46°F

Apr

14°C

4°C

57°F

May

20°C

9°C

68°F

Jun

25°C

14°C

77°F

Jul

28°C

18°C

82°F

Aug

27°C

17°C

80°F

Sep

23°C

13°C

73°F

Oct

17°C

7°C

62°F

Nov

11°C

2°C

51°F

Dec

5°C

-3°C

41°F

attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby

Harvard University

University / Landmark

One of the world's most prestigious universities, featuring historic architecture, museums, and expansive grounds.

Harvard Square

Historic District / Retail

A bustling historic square known for its bookstores, cafes, restaurants, and street performers, serving as a cultural hub.

Harvard Museum of Natural History

Museum

Home to extensive collections of natural science specimens, including the famous Blaschka Glass Flowers.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

University / Landmark

A world-renowned research university known for its excellence in science and engineering, with unique modern architecture.

restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines

local_dining

New England Clam Chowder

A rich, creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and often bacon or salt pork, a staple of New England cuisine.

local_dining

Lobster Roll

Fresh lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayonnaise or butter, served in a grilled hot dog-style bun.

local_dining

Boston Cream Pie

A classic dessert consisting of two layers of sponge cake filled with pastry cream and topped with a chocolate glaze.

diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition

Cambridge is a diverse city, reflecting its status as an academic and innovation hub, attracting a global population.

Caucasian / White 57.7%

Asian American 17.7%

African American / Black 10.4%

Hispanic / Latino 9.4%

Multiracial & Other 4.8%

workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures

person

Barack Obama

44th U.S. President

Graduated from Harvard Law School; served as President of the Harvard Law Review.

person

Mark Zuckerberg

Co-founder of Facebook

Attended Harvard University before dropping out to focus on Facebook.

person

Natalie Portman

Academy Award-winning Actress

Graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology.

directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around

Cambridge and the greater Boston area boast a comprehensive public transportation system, alongside increasing infrastructure for active transport and access to major regional and international travel hubs.

Public Transit (Buses & Metro)

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), or 'T', operates extensive subway (Red Line directly serves Harvard Square), bus, and commuter rail services. Fares are typically paid with a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket, offering integrated travel across modes.

Walking & Cycling

Cambridge is highly walkable and bike-friendly, with a walk score often in the high 80s and numerous dedicated bike lanes and paths. The Minuteman Commuter Bikeway is a popular route.

Regional Rail & Airport

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) is the primary airport, easily accessible via public transit (Silver Line bus). Amtrak provides regional and long-distance rail services from Boston's North and South Stations.

school 8. Education & Literacy Level

Literacy Rate

99% (estimated for Massachusetts)

Bachelor's Degree+

76.4% (Cambridge city), 46.6% (Massachusetts state)

Cambridge is a global leader in education, hosting two of the world's most prestigious universities (Harvard and MIT). The city has an exceptionally high rate of residents with bachelor's degrees or higher, significantly exceeding both state and national averages, fostering a highly educated and innovative population. Massachusetts consistently ranks among the top states for educational attainment and quality.

trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries

The economy of Cambridge and the surrounding Boston metropolitan area is robust and diverse, heavily driven by innovation, research, and higher education. It's a leading hub for biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, software, and venture capital.