Cambridge vs Somerville: Neighbor Comparison
Two cities, one border, very different vibes
Overview
Cambridge and Somerville share a border and many similarities — both are walkable, diverse, and full of great food. But they have distinct personalities and price points. Somerville has emerged as a compelling alternative for people priced out of Cambridge or drawn to its edgier, more artistic vibe. Here's how they compare.
Side-by-Side Comparison
How Cambridge and Somerville compare on the metrics that matter.
| Factor | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Population | ~118,000 | ~81,000 |
| Avg. 1BR Rent | $2,400-2,800 | $2,100-2,500 |
| Vibe | Academic, intellectual | Artsy, young professional |
| Transit | Red Line (established) | Green Line Extension (new!) |
| Dining | Neighborhood squares | Union & Davis Square hubs |
| Nightlife | Quieter | More lively bar scene |
| Arts Scene | Institutional (Harvard, MIT) | Grassroots, DIY |
Pros & Cons
Each city has clear advantages for different lifestyles.
Cambridge
- Established Red Line transit
- Harvard and MIT resources (museums, lectures, events)
- More established dining scene
- Better-known schools
- Stronger brand recognition (great for resumes)
- Higher rents across the board
- Can feel quiet/sleepy compared to Somerville
- More tourists in Harvard Square
- Stricter parking enforcement
Somerville
- 15-20% lower rents than comparable Cambridge spots
- Thriving arts and music scene
- Better nightlife (Davis Square, Union Square)
- Green Line Extension adds new transit
- Assembly Row for shopping and entertainment
- More independent, less corporate feel
- Green Line Extension still ramping up
- Some areas still transitioning
- Fewer world-class cultural institutions
- Less name recognition nationally
The Verdict
Choose Cambridge if you want proximity to Harvard or MIT, established transit, and a more polished feel. Choose Somerville if you value a vibrant arts scene, better nightlife, lower rents, and a younger, more independent energy. Many residents end up moving between the two cities as their needs change — they're so close that you can live in one and enjoy everything the other offers. Davis Square in Somerville is literally adjacent to Porter Square in Cambridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Somerville is generally 15-20% cheaper than Cambridge for comparable housing. A one-bedroom in Somerville averages $2,100-2,500 compared to $2,400-2,800 in Cambridge. The gap has been narrowing as Somerville's desirability increases, especially with the Green Line Extension bringing better transit to previously underserved neighborhoods.
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This guide is updated regularly to ensure accuracy.
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