Cities and Towns in Dukes County, Massachusetts
Founded in 1695, Dukes County is one of 14 counties in the state of Massachusetts. Historically, Dukes County was formed from Martha’s Vineyard and the Elizabeth Islands, which had been part of Dukes County, New York until Massachusetts gained it in 1691. The city of Edgartown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Dukes County has a population of 21,097 and area of 104 square miles (269 km²).
List of all cities in Dukes County, MA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aquinnah, MA | 02535 | 508/774 |
| Chappaquiddick Island, MA | 02539 | 508/774 |
| Chilmark, MA | 02535 | 508/774 |
| 02552 | 508/774 | |
| Cuttyhunk, MA | 02713 | 508/774 |
| Edgartown, MA | 02539 | 508/774 |
| Gay Head, MA | 02535 | 508/774 |
| Gosnold, MA | 02713 | 508/774 |
| Menemsha, MA | 02552 | 508/774 |
| North Tisbury, MA | 02568 | 508/774 |
| Oak Bluffs, MA | 02557 | 508/774 |
| Tisbury, MA | 02568 | 508/774 |
| 02573 | 508/774 | |
| 02575 | 508/774 | |
| Vineyard Haven, MA | 02568 | 508/774 |
| 02573 | 508/774 | |
| West Chop, MA | 02573 | 508/774 |
| West Tisbury, MA | 02568 | 508/774 |
| 02575 | 508/774 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dukes County, Massachusetts
Edgartown
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 122.7 square miles (including water)
- Population: Approximately 5,168 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02539
- Latitude: 41.3898° N
- Longitude: 70.5133° W
Location and History
Edgartown, located on the eastern side of Martha’s Vineyard, is the oldest settlement in Dukes County, founded in 1642. It became a prominent whaling port in the 18th and 19th centuries, attracting wealthy sea captains who built grand homes along its waterfront. These historic homes still line Edgartown’s picturesque streets, giving the town its quintessential New England charm. As whaling declined, Edgartown transitioned into a summer vacation destination. Today, it remains one of the most popular towns on Martha’s Vineyard, known for its pristine beaches, historic architecture, and charming downtown lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Edgartown is part of the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools district, with Edgartown School serving students through 8th grade, and high school students attending Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School in Oak Bluffs. Major landmarks include the Edgartown Lighthouse, which offers sweeping views of Edgartown Harbor, and the Vincent House, the island’s oldest residence, dating back to 1672. South Beach, a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming, is a highlight for summer visitors. The Old Whaling Church, a Greek Revival-style building, serves as a cultural hub for concerts and events. The Martha’s Vineyard Museum, located in Edgartown, showcases the island’s rich maritime history.
Oak Bluffs
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 7.42 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,341 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02557, 02568
- Latitude: 41.4543° N
- Longitude: 70.5627° W
Location and History
Oak Bluffs is located on the northeastern shore of Martha’s Vineyard and was founded in the mid-19th century as a Methodist campground. Originally known as “Cottage City,” the town became famous for its brightly painted gingerbread-style cottages that were built around the central campground’s tabernacle. Oak Bluffs developed into one of the island’s most vibrant and diverse communities, drawing tourists to its bustling harbor and boardwalk. The town is known for its lively summer atmosphere, Victorian architecture, and the oldest operating carousel in the country, the Flying Horses Carousel.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oak Bluffs is served by the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools district, with Oak Bluffs School serving local students up to 8th grade, while high school students attend Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Major landmarks include the historic Flying Horses Carousel, built in 1876, and Ocean Park, a beautifully landscaped park that hosts concerts and events during the summer. The colorful gingerbread cottages, located in the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association (MVCMA) campground, are a must-see, while Inkwell Beach, a popular African American vacation spot, reflects the town’s rich cultural diversity. East Chop Lighthouse offers scenic views of Nantucket Sound and the surrounding area.
Tisbury (Vineyard Haven)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 19.10 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,815 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02568
- Latitude: 41.4543° N
- Longitude: 70.6036° W
Location and History
Tisbury, often referred to as Vineyard Haven, is located on the northern coast of Martha’s Vineyard. The town was settled in 1671 and became a major maritime center, serving as a vital port for trading and fishing. Vineyard Haven remains the island’s year-round port of entry, with the Steamship Authority ferry bringing passengers and goods to and from the mainland. Its harbor, protected by a natural barrier, made it a bustling shipbuilding town in the 19th century. Today, Tisbury retains its maritime heritage while offering a quieter, more residential atmosphere compared to other towns on the island.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tisbury is served by the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools system, with Tisbury School catering to elementary and middle school students, while high schoolers attend Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Major landmarks include the Tisbury Wharf, which continues to play a vital role in the island’s transportation and commerce. The Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse, a year-round professional theater, is located in Vineyard Haven and offers performances and cultural events. The West Chop Lighthouse, built in 1817, is a scenic landmark that overlooks Vineyard Haven Harbor. The town’s waterfront and beaches, such as Owen Park Beach, offer stunning views and relaxation.
West Tisbury
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 41.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,555 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02575
- Latitude: 41.3806° N
- Longitude: 70.6760° W
Location and History
West Tisbury is located in the center of Martha’s Vineyard and is known for its rural, pastoral landscape, making it a quieter, more residential town compared to the island’s busier harbor towns. Established in 1892, West Tisbury has deep agricultural roots, with farms and open fields dotting the landscape. The town is known for its focus on preserving open space, and it offers a slower pace of life, attracting visitors and residents seeking tranquility. Agriculture and art blend in this scenic town, where summer markets and art fairs are popular attractions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Tisbury is part of the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools district, with students attending the West Tisbury School for elementary and middle school and then moving on to Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Major landmarks include the Polly Hill Arboretum, a horticultural landmark that features rare trees and plants, and the West Tisbury Farmers Market, a beloved summer tradition that highlights the island’s local produce and artisanal goods. The Grange Hall, a historic meeting place, is home to summer fairs and art shows. The nearby Long Point Wildlife Refuge offers miles of beaches, dunes, and trails for nature enthusiasts.
Chilmark
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 19.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,212 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02535
- Latitude: 41.3462° N
- Longitude: 70.7343° W
Location and History
Chilmark is located in the western part of Martha’s Vineyard, known for its rolling hills, rural charm, and stunning coastline. The town was settled in 1660 and has maintained a primarily agricultural landscape, with sprawling farms and scenic vistas. Chilmark’s isolation and natural beauty have made it a popular destination for those seeking a more private and quiet retreat on Martha’s Vineyard. The town is home to some of the island’s most exclusive properties, and its dramatic cliffs along the coast add to its allure. Chilmark is also home to the iconic fishing village of Menemsha, known for its fresh seafood and scenic harbor.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chilmark is served by Chilmark School for elementary education, with older students attending Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Major landmarks include the Menemsha Harbor, where visitors can watch fishing boats come and go while enjoying the sunset over Vineyard Sound. The Gay Head Cliffs, located nearby in Aquinnah but accessible from Chilmark, are a National Natural Landmark, famous for their striking clay formations and cultural significance to the Wampanoag Tribe. Lucy Vincent Beach and Squibnocket Beach are popular destinations for those seeking pristine, secluded spots for swimming and sunbathing. The Chilmark Flea Market and Chilmark Community Center host events that draw both locals and visitors.
Aquinnah
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 40.8 square miles (including water)
- Population: Approximately 439 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 02535
- Latitude: 41.3499° N
- Longitude: 70.7986° W
Location and History
Aquinnah, formerly known as Gay Head, is located at the westernmost tip of Martha’s Vineyard. Settled by the Wampanoag people for thousands of years, the area holds great significance as the spiritual and cultural home of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head. The town was officially incorporated in 1870, and in 1997, its name was changed to Aquinnah, meaning “land under the hill” in the Wampanoag language, to honor its Native American heritage. Aquinnah is best known for the stunning Gay Head Cliffs, a National Natural Landmark, and its quiet, rural atmosphere, attracting visitors who appreciate nature and solitude.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Aquinnah’s students attend Chilmark School for elementary education and then Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. Major landmarks include the Gay Head Lighthouse, which sits atop the famous cliffs and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Aquinnah Cultural Center, housed in a historic Wampanoag homestead, educates visitors on the history and culture of the Wampanoag people. Aquinnah’s beaches, including Moshup Beach, are known for their beauty and tranquility, often visited by those seeking a peaceful escape. The town’s unique combination of natural beauty and cultural history makes it one of the most distinctive destinations on Martha’s Vineyard.
