Hi, I’m Jodi Crowley, a real estate agent specializing in helping people move to the best neighborhoods north of Boston. I am excited to present The Ultimate Guide to Moving to Cambridge, Massachusetts. I know how daunting it can be to navigate the housing market, especially in a vibrant, competitive city like Cambridge. But with insider knowledge and expert guidance, you can make the right move and find your dream home.
Ready to explore Cambridge and see what it has to offer? Don’t waste any more time scrolling through listings—contact me today for a personalized consultation, and let’s find the perfect home for you! Call or text me now at 339-227-2282. Let’s make your Cambridge dream a reality!
Table of Contents
Cambridge, Massachusetts: A Vibrant City to Call Home
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a vibrant city located just across the Charles River from Boston. Known for its rich history, diverse neighborhoods, esteemed educational institutions, and excellent public transportation, Cambridge offers a highly desirable living experience.
Cambridge, Massachusetts Neighborhoods
Cambridge, Massachusetts, is made up of several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character, history, and appeal. Here’s a breakdown of the major neighborhoods in Cambridge:
1. Harvard Square
- One of the most well-known areas, home to Harvard University.
- Bustling with shops, bookstores, cafes, and restaurants.
- A mix of historic and modern architecture.
- Popular with students, professors, and professionals.
2. Kendall Square
- Known as a hub for biotech and tech startups, often referred to as the “most innovative square mile on the planet.”
- Home to MIT, tech companies, and research institutions.
- Trendy bars, restaurants, and high-rise luxury apartments.
3. Central Square
- A vibrant and diverse neighborhood with a strong arts and music scene.
- Home to the Cambridge City Hall and a variety of restaurants, bars, and small businesses.
- More affordable housing options compared to Harvard and Kendall Square.
- Served by the MBTA Red Line.
4. Porter Square
- A residential area on the Cambridge/Somerville border.
- Features Porter Square Shopping Center, with a mix of local businesses and national chains.
- Home to Lesley University and close to Davis Square in Somerville.
- Well-connected by the MBTA Red Line and Commuter Rail.
5. Inman Square
- A hip and eclectic neighborhood with a strong community feel.
- Known for independent businesses, restaurants, and bars.
- Home to the Cambridge Public Library Main Branch.
- Not directly served by the subway but accessible by bus.
6. Cambridgeport
- A quiet residential area located between Central Square and the Charles River.
- Features tree-lined streets, historic homes, and parks.
- Close to MIT, making it a popular spot for students and faculty.
- Home to Magazine Beach Park, a great spot for outdoor activities.
7. North Cambridge
- Located near Alewife Station, making it a convenient area for commuters.
- More suburban in feel, with single-family homes and apartment complexes.
- Features Danehy Park, a large green space with walking trails and sports fields.
- Popular with families and professionals.
8. East Cambridge
- A growing area with new residential developments and revitalized industrial spaces.
- Home to the CambridgeSide Galleria Mall, a major shopping center.
- Features waterfront access along the Charles River.
- Convenient access to the Lechmere MBTA Green Line station.
9. Wellington-Harrington
- A smaller, working-class neighborhood.
- Located between Kendall Square and Inman Square.
- Features a mix of older homes and new condo developments.
- Close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
10. Agassiz (Baldwin)
- A primarily residential area located between Harvard and Porter Square.
- Home to the Harvard Museum of Natural History.
- Known for its tree-lined streets and classic New England charm.
- Popular with students, faculty, and families.
11. Riverside
- Located along the Charles River, providing beautiful waterfront views.
- A mix of historic homes and modern apartments.
- Home to Harvard Business School and Harvard Athletics Complex.
- Great for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy biking, running, and kayaking.
Each neighborhood in Cambridge offers something unique, whether it’s historic charm, proximity to universities, tech innovation, or family-friendly green spaces. If you’re considering living in Cambridge, your choice of neighborhood will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and commute preferences.
Education
Cambridge, MA, is home to a mix of highly-rated public schools and prestigious private schools, making it an excellent place for families seeking quality education. Below is a breakdown of public and private schools in Cambridge:
Public Schools in Cambridge (Cambridge Public School District – CPSD)
Cambridge Public Schools (CPSD) serves over 7,000 students across elementary, middle, and high schools. The district is known for its diverse student body, innovative curriculum, and strong arts and STEM programs.
Elementary Schools (PreK-5)
- Amigos School (Spanish-English bilingual school)
- Baldwin School (Strong arts and STEM programs)
- Cambridgeport School (Focus on hands-on learning)
- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School (STEM-focused curriculum)
- Fletcher-Maynard Academy (Small class sizes, focus on literacy)
- Graham & Parks School (Progressive education model)
- Haggerty School (Emphasis on community learning)
- Kennedy-Longfellow School (STEM and technology integration)
- King Open School (Incorporates social justice education)
- Morse School (Strong music and arts program)
- Peabody School (Focus on project-based learning)
- Tobin Montessori School (The only public Montessori school in Massachusetts)
Middle Schools (Grades 6-8)
Each middle school feeds into Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (CRLS), the city’s only public high school.
High School (Grades 9-12)
Cambridge Rindge & Latin School (CRLS)
- One of the top public high schools in Massachusetts.
- Offers AP courses, STEM programs, and performing arts.
- Features the Rindge School of Technical Arts (RSTA) for vocational training.
High School Extension Program (HSEP)
- Alternative education option for students who need a non-traditional high school experience.
Private Schools in Cambridge
Cambridge also offers elite private and independent schools, many of which have national and international reputations.
K-12 & High Schools
Buckingham Browne & Nichols (BB&N)
- One of the most prestigious private schools in Massachusetts.
- Strong college preparatory program with STEAM, arts, and athletics.
- Progressive, student-driven curriculum.
- Focus on arts and global studies.
International School of Boston
- Bilingual (French-English) education from pre-K through 12th grade.
- Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
- Catholic college-prep high school.
- Offers AP courses, STEM programs, and athletics.
Cambridge Matignon Middle School
- Recently opened to expand Matignon’s curriculum to middle schoolers.
Prospect Hill Academy Charter School
- Public charter school with a rigorous college-prep focus.
Specialized & Alternative Schools
- Fayerweather Street School (Progressive, project-based learning)
- Cambridge Montessori School (Montessori method for pre-K through middle school)
- Steppingstone Foundation (Academic enrichment for underserved students)
Higher Education in Cambridge
Cambridge is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, including:
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Lesley University
- Hult International Business School
Whether you’re looking for top-ranked public schools, prestigious private institutions, or specialized alternative schools, Cambridge offers outstanding educational opportunities. The city’s strong commitment to academics, diversity, and innovation makes it an attractive place for families.
Cambridge, MA Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
If you’re considering a move to Cambridge, MA, or simply planning a visit, understanding the local climate can help you prepare for what’s ahead. Nestled just across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge experiences all four seasons in their full glory—hot summers, crisp autumns, snowy winters, and refreshing springs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from the weather in Cambridge, MA, throughout the year.
Winter (December – February)
- Average Temperatures: 20°F – 40°F (-7°C – 4°C)
- Snowfall: Moderate to heavy (40–50 inches per year)
- What to Expect: Cambridge winters can be quite cold, with occasional snowstorms that blanket the city in white. The temperature often dips below freezing, so layering up with warm coats, gloves, and boots is essential. The MBTA public transit system generally remains operational, though snowstorms can cause occasional delays.
Spring (March – May)
- Average Temperatures: 40°F – 65°F (4°C – 18°C)
- Rainfall: Moderate, with some spring showers
- What to Expect: As the snow melts and flowers begin to bloom, Cambridge comes alive with outdoor activity. Spring is a fantastic time to explore neighborhoods, parks, and the Charles River Esplanade. Expect fluctuating temperatures, with some chilly mornings and warm afternoons.
Summer (June – August)
- Average Temperatures: 65°F – 90°F (18°C – 32°C)
- Humidity: High, with occasional thunderstorms
- What to Expect: Summers in Cambridge are warm and humid, with plenty of sunshine and the occasional afternoon thunderstorm. This is the perfect season for enjoying outdoor dining, walking along Harvard Square, and biking through the city.
Fall (September – November)
- Average Temperatures: 40°F – 70°F (4°C – 21°C)
- Foliage: Spectacular autumn colors peak in October
- What to Expect: Fall in Cambridge is simply breathtaking. The changing leaves paint the city in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the best times of the year for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Temperatures are mild, and the air is crisp and refreshing.
Cambridge, MA, offers a dynamic climate that caters to lovers of all four seasons.
Public Transportation in Cambridge, Massachusetts
Cambridge, MA, has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that makes commuting easy. Whether you’re traveling to Boston, Somerville, or surrounding areas, Cambridge offers multiple transit options through the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA).
1. MBTA Subway (“The T”)
Cambridge is served by the Red Line, one of the most reliable and heavily used subway lines in Boston. The Red Line connects Cambridge to Downtown Boston, South Boston, Quincy, and Somerville.
Red Line Stops in Cambridge:
- Alewife (North Cambridge) – Large parking garage for commuters.
- Davis (Technically in Somerville, but serves North Cambridge).
- Porter (Porter Square) – Connection to the Commuter Rail.
- Harvard (Harvard Square) – Major transit hub, shopping, Harvard University.
- Central (Central Square) – Dining, nightlife, businesses.
- Kendall/MIT (Kendall Square) – Tech & biotech hub, MIT.
Connections: The Red Line connects to the Green, Orange, and Silver Lines in Downtown Boston, allowing easy access across the region.
MBTA Subway Map
2. MBTA Buses
Cambridge has an extensive bus network that connects neighborhoods and provides direct access to places not covered by the Red Line.
Popular Bus Routes in Cambridge:
- Bus 1 – Harvard → Central → MIT → Back Bay → Boston
- Bus 47 – Cambridgeport → BU → Longwood Medical Area
- Bus 66 – Harvard → Allston → Brookline → Longwood Medical Area
- Bus 69 – Harvard → Inman Square → Lechmere
- Bus 77 – Harvard → North Cambridge → Arlington
- Bus 83 – Porter Square → Inman Square → Somerville
- Bus 86 – Harvard → Somerville → Brighton
Real-time tracking: You can check MBTA bus schedules on MBTA.com or use transit apps like Google Maps, Transit App, or Citymapper.
3. MBTA Commuter Rail
For longer-distance commuters, the Fitchburg Line of the Commuter Rail stops at:
- Porter Square – Connects to Fitchburg, Waltham, and Boston’s North Station.
This is a great option for suburban commuters heading into Cambridge or Boston.
MBTA Commuter Rail Schedules
4. Green Line Extension (GLX) – Lechmere Station
The Green Line’s Lechmere station provides access to East Cambridge and connects to:
- Union Square (Somerville)
- Medford/Tufts
Great for those traveling to Somerville, Medford, or Downtown Boston.
Green Line Extension Project
5. Bluebikes (Bike Sharing)
Cambridge is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S., with over 60 miles of bike lanes. The Bluebikes system (Boston’s public bike-sharing program) has stations throughout Cambridge, making it easy to grab a bike for short trips.
Cost:
- Single Ride: ~$3
- Monthly Pass: ~$26
- Annual Membership: ~$129
Popular Bluebike Stations:
- Harvard Square
- Kendall Square
- Central Square
- Porter Square
- Alewife
Check Bluebikes Locations & Pricing
6. Walking & Pedestrian-Friendly Streets
Cambridge is highly walkable, with most neighborhoods having easy access to shops, restaurants, and transit. Areas like Harvard Square, Inman Square, and Kendall Square are designed for pedestrians.
Best Walking Areas:
- Charles River Esplanade (Beautiful river views)
- Harvard Square (Historic and lively)
- Cambridge Common (Near Harvard)
- Kendall Square (Tech and innovation hub)
7. Ridesharing & Car Alternatives
If you prefer on-demand travel, you can use:
- Uber & Lyft – Available citywide.
- Zipcar & Getaround – Car-sharing services for short-term rentals.
- Electric Scooters & E-Bikes – Some areas allow rentable e-scooters and bikes.
Cambridge is one of the best-connected cities in Massachusetts when it comes to public transportation. With the MBTA Red Line, buses, commuter rail, and bike-friendly infrastructure, getting around is fast, convenient, and eco-friendly.
Looking to move to Cambridge? Having reliable public transportation is a major advantage, especially for those commuting into Boston, Somerville, or the surrounding suburbs.
Popular Locally Owned Businesses in Cambridge, MA
Cambridge is buzzing with local spots that define its unique charm. Grab a coffee at Tatte Bakery & Café, or stop by the famous Harvard Square for a mix of bookstores, boutiques, and restaurants. Don’t miss out on visiting local gems like the Cambridge Antique Market, Curio Spice, and Area Four for a memorable meal or shopping experience.
Bookstores & Specialty Shops
- Harvard Book Store – Website
- gather here (Craft & Fabric Shop) – Website
- We Thieves (Vintage Clothing & Accessories) – Instagram
- Cambridge Antique Market (Antiques & Collectibles) – Website
- Curio Spice Co. (Ethically Sourced Spices) – Website
Food & Grocery
- Formaggio Kitchen (Cheese & Gourmet Foods) – Website
- Pemberton Farms & Garden Center (Organic Grocery & Deli) – Website
- Mariposa Bakery & Cafe (Bakery & Coffee Shop) – Website
- Tatte Bakery & Café (Coffee & Pastries) – Website
Restaurants & Cafés
These businesses offer a mix of shopping, dining, and specialty goods, making Cambridge a great place to explore and support local entrepreneurs.
Local Non-Profits and Clubs
Cambridge isn’t just about business—it’s about building a community. With organizations like the Museum of Science, Cambridge Community Foundation and the YMCA of Cambridge, there’s no shortage of ways to get involved. Join local clubs, volunteer, or contribute to causes that align with your values, making Cambridge feel like home right away.
Outdoor Activities and Parks
Cambridge is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of parks and recreational areas for all seasons. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a scenic bike ride, or an afternoon by the river, the city has plenty to offer.
- Charles River Esplanade – A beautiful waterfront park perfect for jogging, biking, and picnicking while enjoying scenic views of the Boston skyline.
- Fresh Pond Reservation – A 155-acre natural preserve with walking trails, a golf course, and a serene pond, making it a favorite for runners and dog walkers.
- Danehy Park – A spacious park with athletic fields, playgrounds, and walking trails, great for sports lovers and families.
- Harvard Yard and Cambridge Common – A historic green space in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or reading a book outdoors.
- Magazine Beach Park – Located along the Charles River, this park features open fields, sports courts, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
- Alewife Brook Reservation – A mix of wooded trails and wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks.
No matter the season, Cambridge has something for everyone looking to enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s hiking, biking, kayaking, or simply soaking in the city’s natural beauty.
Proximity to Boston, a strong sense of community, and a wealth of amenities make Cambridge a highly sought-after place to live. Its blend of historic charm and modern convenience appeals to a wide range of residents.
