Cambridge Parking Guide: Tips, Rules & Best Spots
Mastering the art of parking in Cambridge
Overview
Parking in Cambridge is notoriously challenging, but with the right knowledge, it's manageable. Cambridge's parking enforcement is strict (they mean it about those meters), but the city also offers affordable resident permits and more free parking options than most people realize. Here's everything you need to know.
Resident Parking Permits
Cambridge resident parking permits cost just $25 per year — one of the best deals in the city. Apply at Cambridge City Hall (795 Massachusetts Avenue) with your lease or deed, vehicle registration, and ID. Permits allow you to park on residential streets in any neighborhood (Cambridge uses a city-wide permit system, not zone-based). Visitor permits are also available for guests. Note: permits don't guarantee a spot, and some streets near Harvard and Central Squares fill up quickly in the evening.
Parking by Neighborhood
Each area has different parking dynamics.
Harvard Square
The hardest area to park. Use the Harvard Square Parking Garage (enter on Eliot St) or the Church Street Garage. Street meters are 2-hour max and enforced until 8pm. Consider taking the T instead.
Central Square
Slightly easier than Harvard Square. The Green Street Garage offers affordable rates. Side streets off Massachusetts Ave have metered and permit parking.
Kendall Square
Garage parking at Cambridge Center garages. Weekend and evening parking is often free or discounted. On-street metered parking is available on Broadway and side streets.
Inman Square
Best parking of the major squares. A municipal lot behind the restaurants, plus metered and residential street parking. Weekends are usually easy.
Parking Enforcement Warning
Cambridge parking enforcement is aggressive and well-organized. Meters are enforced Monday-Saturday until 8pm. Street sweeping tickets ($50) are common — check posted signs for your street's schedule. Snow emergency parking bans are strictly enforced in winter, with towing. The city uses electronic chalking technology, so don't think you can move your car to reset a meter. Set phone reminders for meters and street sweeping days.
Frequently Asked Questions
A Cambridge resident parking permit costs $25 per year. You can apply at Cambridge City Hall with your lease, vehicle registration, and photo ID. The permit is city-wide (not zone-based) and allows you to park on any residential permit street in Cambridge.
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This guide is updated regularly to ensure accuracy.
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