Moving to Cambridge, MA: The Complete Guide

Cambridge, Massachusetts is consistently ranked among the best places to live in America. Home to Harvard and MIT, this 7-square-mile city packs in world-class dining, diverse neighborhoods, excellent transit, and a walkable urban lifestyle. Whether you're coming for a university position, a tech job in Kendall Square, or simply drawn to the intellectual energy, this guide covers everything you need to know about making Cambridge your home.

Why People Move to Cambridge

Cambridge attracts residents for its unique combination of academic prestige, innovation economy, cultural richness, and urban walkability. The city is home to over 100,000 residents and feels like a small town despite its proximity to Boston. Most residents cite the walkability, public transit, diverse food scene, and intellectual community as top reasons for choosing Cambridge over other Boston-area towns. The job market is exceptionally strong, anchored by Harvard, MIT, biotech companies, and tech startups.

Choosing Your Neighborhood

Each Cambridge neighborhood has its own personality. Understanding the differences is key to finding your ideal home.

Getting Around Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the most walkable and bikeable cities in America. The MBTA Red Line runs through the heart of the city with stops at Kendall/MIT, Central, Harvard, Porter, Davis (Somerville), and Alewife. Bus routes connect neighborhoods not directly on the Red Line, including Inman Square. Bluebikes stations are everywhere, and protected bike lanes continue to expand. Many residents live car-free by choice — Cambridge has the highest rate of bike commuting in Massachusetts. If you do have a car, be prepared for Cambridge's notoriously strict parking enforcement and resident permit requirements.