[4] Native Americans inhabited what is now northeastern Massachusetts for thousands of years prior to European colonization of the Americas.

Today, North Andover is considered a bedroom community of the Greater Boston area.

In January 2018, voters turned down a proposal for a cannabis-growing and research facility in the former Lucent Technologies building, along the Merrimack River.

North Andover lies in the northwestern portion of Essex County along the Merrimack and Shawsheen Rivers.

It is bordered by Andover to the southwest, Lawrence and Methuen to the northwest, Haverhill to the northeast, Boxford to the east and Middleton to the southeast.

The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority bus line partially serves the town.

North Andover is also home to the Lawrence Municipal Airport, providing small aircraft service to the region.

[24] The town has its own police and fire departments, EMS, public works, and a senior center.

[25] North Andover is located within Massachusetts's 6th congressional district, and has been served by Representative Seth Moulton (D) since 2015.

[26] North Andover is located within the Boston media market and is served by the Eagle-Tribune newspaper.

On May 16, 2017, the citizens of North Andover approved the expansion of the early childhood center, which opened for the 2018–2019 school year.

[30] On April 8, 2024, Amazon opened an automated warehouse in North Andover, employing over 1,500 people.

[31] Residents of North Andover can purchase a summer pass to Steven's Pond to swim.

[32] Nearby Weir Hill offers trails for hiking, walking, biking, and views of the surrounding area and beyond.

Many events are held at the old town center, including the sheep shearing festival in late spring and various summer activities for children and adults.

These services are offered to kids in grades 6 through 12, and yearly passes can be purchased to gain full access to the facilities.

Harold Parker State Forest offers 25 miles (40 km) of trails, a campground, and a freshwater swimming beach.

Other activities include horseback riding, camping, fishing, hunting, mountain biking, and hiking.

Boxford State Forest is also located in town and is home to the Sharpner's Pond Anti-Ballistic Missile Site.