Cambridge vs Somerville
Compare these two popular Boston neighborhoods side-by-side.Somerville is more affordable with 2BR rents at $2,800/mo.
Cambridge
Academic, intellectual, innovative
2BR Rent$3,600/mo
90
Walk
88
Transit
90
Bike
Somerville
MORE AFFORDABLEYoung, creative, hip
2BR Rent$2,800/mo
85
Walk
78
Transit
85
Bike
Rent Price Comparison
Monthly rent by bedroom type
| Unit Type | Cambridge | Somerville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,000 | $1,600 | +$400(+25.0%) |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,500 | $2,000 | +$500(+25.0%) |
| 2 Bedroom | $3,600 | $2,800 | +$800(+28.6%) |
| 3 Bedroom | $5,100 | $4,000 | +$1,100(+27.5%) |
Which Neighborhood Wins?
affordability
Somerville
Average rent is $567/mo higher
transit
Cambridge
Transit score: 88 vs 78
walkability
Cambridge
Walk score: 90 vs 85
nightlife
Somerville
Very active
families
Cambridge
Excellent public schools
young Professionals
Somerville
Young, creative, hip
commute
Cambridge
15-20 min to downtown
Cambridge Overview
Harvard and MIT home with intellectual vibe, Harvard Square, Kendall Square tech hub, and academic atmosphere.
Best For
AcademicsTech workersStudentsIntellectual seekers
Pros
- +World-class universities
- +Diverse
- +Bikeable
- +Innovative
Cons
- -Very expensive
- -Cold winters
- -Competitive
- -Student crowds
Safety
Very Good
Commute
15-20 min
Nightlife
Active - Harvard Square, bars, music
Schools
Excellent public schools
Somerville Overview
Young, hip city adjacent to Boston with Davis Square, Assembly Row, and creative community.
Best For
Young professionalsCreativesBikersBudget-conscious Boston
Pros
- +Great food scene
- +Bikeable
- +Community feel
- +Less expensive than Boston
Cons
- -Cold winters
- -Parking difficult
- -Getting expensive
- -Some areas loud
Safety
Very Good
Commute
15-20 min
Nightlife
Very active - Davis Square, bars, music
Schools
Good public schools
Key Takeaways: Cambridge vs Somerville
- Affordability: Somerville offers lower rents with 2BR averaging $2,800/mo compared to $3,600/mo.
- Walkability: Cambridge has the edge with a Walk Score of 90.
- Transit: Cambridge offers better public transit access (Transit Score: 88).
- Commute: Cambridge (15-20 min) vsSomerville (15-20 min) to downtown.
Which Neighborhood is Right for You?
Cambridge is ideal for academics and tech workers, offering academic, intellectual, innovative vibes. Somerville suits young professionals and creatives, known for its young, creative, hip atmosphere.