The Town of Plymouth was incorporated in 1620. It is a coastal community in southeastern Massachusetts, approximately 5 miles north of the Cape Cod Canal. It is the seat of Plymouth County, and has the largest area of any town in the Commonwealth. Plymouth is the oldest town in Massachusetts and one of the richest areas in colonial history and charm. For most of its existence, Plymouth was an isolated seacoast area where economic fortunes were linked to the sea and shipping. The site of the original 1620 settlement is now a portion of today's Downtown/Harbor District. Plymouth County's accessibility to the Boston metropolitan area has greatly influenced the growth rates of its communities. Desirability in terms of land prices, tax rates and residential amenities further influenced community growth and Plymouth's population has increased 145% in just 20 years. Also of significance during the period, was the development of a healthy industrial and commercial base. The Town of Plymouth is committed to controlling its residential growth while welcoming industrial and commercial expansion. It offers direct access to Rte. 3, which makes the area attractive to the Boston community, and its beautiful harbor draws visitors and new residents to the community year-round. Tourists are drawn to the community year round because of the numerous historical attractions linking the town directly to America's beginnings.

Plymouth is located in Southeastern Massachusetts, bordered by Bourne on the south, Wareham on the southwest, Carver on the west, Kingston on the north, and the Atlantic Ocean on the east. Plymouth is 24 miles southeast of Brockton; 37 miles southeast of Boston; 44 miles east of Providence, Rhode Island; and 219 miles from New York City.