Provincetown is a town located at the extreme tip of Cape Cod in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. The population was 3,431 at the 2000 census. "P-town", as it is sometimes called, is known for its beaches, artists, and tourist industry, and is a significant gay resort. The United States Census Bureau provides additional demographic detail for the more densely populated central village area within the town. Those details are included in the aggregate population and area values reported here. See: Provincetown (CDP), Massachusetts.

In the mid-1960s, Provincetown saw population growth. The town's rural character appealed to the hippies of the era; furthermore, property was relatively cheap and rents were correspondingly low, especially during the winter. Many of those who came stayed and raised families. Commercial Street also gained many cafes and shops due to the influx of people.