Worcester is a city in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. Named after Worcester, England, the city's last census population was 172,596 (2000), making it the estimated third largest city in New England. The 2009 estimate for the city's population was 182,882, which would make it the second largest city in New England overtaking nearby Providence. It is the county seat of Worcester County. Worcester is located approximately 40 miles (64 km) west of Boston, and marks the western periphery of the Boston-Worcester-Manchester (MA-RI-NH) U.S. Census Combined Statistical Area (CSA) (Greater Boston). Due to its location in central Massachusetts, Worcester is often referred to as the "Heart of the Commonwealth." The city is also noted for its mill era Victorian architecture.