Somerville, Massachusetts, is a rising destination for young professionals, remote workers, and families looking for a livable city just minutes from downtown Boston. Once known primarily as a working-class suburb, it has transformed into a vibrant, walkable, and culturally rich area-with one of the highest concentrations of artists and college graduates in the state.
Fun fact: Steven Tyler of Aerosmith spent part of his childhood in Somerville, and actor Mark Wahlberg frequently visited the area growing up. Today, the city reflects a dynamic mix of innovation, local pride, and strong community ties.
If you’re planning a move to the area, Somerville movers can help with every stage-from securing permits to managing tight stairwells and historic buildings.
What Makes Somerville Stand Out from Boston and Cambridge
Located just 3 miles from downtown Boston, Somerville offers fast access via the Green and Red MBTA lines, buses, and bike routes. It borders Cambridge-home to MIT and Harvard-but maintains its own identity as a creative, socially active, and forward-thinking city. The 2022 Green Line Extension further improved accessibility, especially to Union Square and East Somerville. With a Walk Score of 86 and Bike Score of 88, it’s a city built for mobility and community life.
The city has also become a hub for startups and research spin-offs, often linked to nearby universities. This brings an entrepreneurial atmosphere and a network of coworking spaces, meetups, and public lectures. With over 80 public parks, dozens of art galleries, and regular cultural festivals, Somerville provides a balance between urban convenience and cultural engagement.
Advantages of Living in Somerville
- Strong public transportation – Two subway lines, reliable buses, and dedicated bike lanes provide easy connections to Boston and beyond.
- Highly educated community – 66% of adults hold a college degree, one of the highest rates in the state.
- Rent-friendly environment – 68% of residents are renters, making it easier to find flexible leases and roommate options.
- Diverse food and local culture – Known for its breweries, ethnic markets, food trucks, and indie cafés.
- Access to top universities – MIT and Harvard are just minutes away, making Somerville ideal for grad students and researchers.
- Green and social spaces – Including Powderhouse Park, Community Path, Foss Park, and Dilboy Stadium.
- Young and dynamic population – Average age is 31, with a strong presence of tech professionals, academics, and creative freelancers.
Additional perks include low crime rates (per FBI Uniform Crime Reporting), widespread recycling programs, and neighborhood associations that host everything from clean-up events to cultural celebrations.
Downsides: Rent, Parking, and Aging Infrastructure
While Somerville has much to offer, it’s not without its drawbacks:
- High rent prices – $2,500–$2,700 for 1-bedrooms; over $3,200 for 2-bedrooms (Zumper, 2024).
- Limited parking – Residential permit required ($40/year), but competition for spaces is high, especially near Davis and Union Squares.
- Older housing stock – Over 65% of homes were built before 1950. Many units lack central A/C or modern insulation.
- Noise – Especially in nightlife-heavy areas like Davis Square and around Tufts University.
- Construction – Ongoing development projects mean occasional detours, noise, and parking reroutes.
These challenges can be mitigated with planning-for example, by choosing quieter neighborhoods or units with updated amenities.
Best Neighborhoods in Somerville
| Neighborhood | Description | Closest Transit Line | Avg. 1-Bed Rent |
| Davis Square | Trendy, popular, high-energy | Red Line (Alewife) | $2,700+ |
| Union Square | Growing, creative, transit-accessible | Green Line Extension | $2,500–2,600 |
| East Somerville | More affordable, diverse, near I-93 | Orange Line (Assembly) | $2,300–2,450 |
| Winter Hill | Quiet, family-friendly | Bus + bike infrastructure | $2,200–2,400 |
Top local schools include Argenziano School and Healey School, both praised for their inclusive learning models and STEM programs. Residents also enjoy easy access to grocery stores like Market Basket, Whole Foods, and independent co-ops.
How to Prepare for a Move to Somerville
Moving in Somerville comes with logistical quirks. Here’s how to avoid issues:
- Plan ahead for peak season – Summer sees high competition for rentals and moving services. Start 1–2 months in advance.
- Apply for a Moving Truck Permit – Required by the City of Somerville ($40–50); apply at least 3 business days in advance.
- Expect tight entryways and staircases – Many homes are walk-ups with no elevators.
- Time your move wisely – Weekday mornings are ideal; avoid late afternoons and weekends.
- Coordinate parking – Movers must follow permit zones or risk fines.
Need help? Somerville movers provide full-service assistance: permits, packing, floor protection, and logistics-all tailored to Somerville’s dense urban environment.
Additional Tips for Settling In
Moving to a new city isn’t just about finding the right apartment-it’s about learning how the city functions and how you can fit into it. In Somerville, new residents often benefit from joining neighborhood-focused Facebook groups like “Somerville Moms” or “Everything Somerville” where locals share real-time tips about everything from school enrollment to landlord reviews. The city’s official website also offers helpful resources like trash collection schedules, snow emergency alerts, and bike route maps-especially useful during the winter.
Somerville’s compact layout means many residents opt for car alternatives. Zipcar and Bluebikes are popular choices, and thanks to a strong public transit network, many people get around without owning a vehicle at all. To feel more at home and tap into the creative pulse of the city, consider attending community events like ArtBeat or SomerStreets, or visiting weekend farmers markets. These gatherings provide not only entertainment, but also a great way to meet neighbors and engage with Somerville’s active civic culture.
Is Somerville Right for You?
Somerville is ideal for:
- Young professionals and graduate students seeking a connected, social lifestyle
- Remote workers who want vibrant, walkable neighborhoods and access to coworking spots
- Families looking for parks, good schools, and safe streets
- Renters who want close access to Boston’s jobs, culture, and universities
It’s also a great fit for those who value local pride, civic involvement, and a balance between work and community.
If you’re relocating to Somerville, work with a team that understands its history, traffic flow, neighborhoods, and parking rules. A smooth transition begins with Somerville movers-your local experts
