Cambridge, Massachusetts, known for its prestigious universities and intellectual atmosphere, is a city that seamlessly blends history with innovation. Cambridge neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character, offer residents a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. From the iconic Harvard Square to the bustling streets of Central Square, Cambridge is a city where academia, culture, and technology intersect. With its diverse population, excellent public transportation, and vibrant arts scene, Cambridge is a place where tradition meets the future.
The Cambridge neighborhood map is a valuable resource for those looking to explore the diverse communities within the city. Cambridge neighborhoods range from the quiet, residential streets of West Cambridge to the lively, urban environment of Kendall Square. The map highlights neighborhoods with higher livability scores in green, indicating areas with superior amenities, safety, and overall quality of life. Neighborhoods with lower scores are marked in red, providing guidance for residents and newcomers as they navigate the city's dynamic landscape.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Mit | 3,835 | 0.94 | 89 |
| 2 | North Cambridge | 14,956 | 2.21 | 81 |
| 3 | Cambridgeport | 13,972 | 1.4 | 80 |
| 4 | Cambridge Highlands | 2,015 | 0.98 | 80 |
| 5 | West Cambridge | 8,302 | 2.75 | 78 |
The best Cambridge neighborhoods are identified by their high livability scores, which take into account factors such as access to local amenities, low crime rates, and proximity to educational institutions. These neighborhoods offer a balanced lifestyle, with easy access to parks, cultural attractions, and a wide range of dining and shopping options. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a family, the best Cambridge neighborhoods provide a high quality of life in a city that values both learning and living well.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | Area Iv | 6,289 | 0.8 | 73 |
| 2 | Mid-Cambridge | 13,126 | 1.2 | 74 |
| 3 | Wellington-Harrington | 7,305 | 0.61 | 74 |
| 4 | East Cambridge | 11,960 | 1.66 | 76 |
| 5 | Riverside | 12,628 | 0.78 | 77 |
The worst Cambridge neighborhoods tend to score lower on livability metrics due to challenges such as higher crime rates, fewer amenities, and economic difficulties. These areas may struggle with issues like underperforming schools and limited access to community resources, making them less desirable places to live. Despite these challenges, each neighborhood in Cambridge has its unique appeal, but those classified among the worst Cambridge neighborhoods often face significant challenges that potential residents should consider carefully.
| # | Hood | Population | Area (km 2) | Livability Score |
| 1 | North Cambridge | 14,956 | 2.21 | 81 |
| 2 | Cambridgeport | 13,972 | 1.4 | 80 |
| 3 | Mid-Cambridge | 13,126 | 1.2 | 74 |
| 4 | Riverside | 12,628 | 0.78 | 77 |
| 5 | East Cambridge | 11,960 | 1.66 | 76 |
| 6 | Neighborhood 9 | 11,671 | 1.68 | 77 |
| 7 | West Cambridge | 8,302 | 2.75 | 78 |
| 8 | Wellington-Harrington | 7,305 | 0.61 | 74 |
| 9 | Area Iv | 6,289 | 0.8 | 73 |
| 10 | Aggasiz-Harvard | 5,061 | 0.77 | 78 |
Founded in 1630 by Puritans who emigrated from England, it was originally called Newe Towne and eight miles north of Boston on the Charles River. Newe College created to train ministers, was later renamed Harvard after benefactor John Harvard. In May 1638 the town was renamed Cambridge in honor of Cambridge University in England and was incorporated as a city in 1846 during the Literary Revolution. The 1920's brought the industrial revolution where many famous companies got their start. Industry declined during the Great Depression and WWII and Cambridge focused more on intellectualism with Radcliffe College for Women and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). By the 1950's singles and young couples replaced families but the1980's technology boom brought many start-ups and more people. By the end of the 20th century it had one of the most expensive housing markets in the country. Still maintaining its sanctuary city status and diversity in age, class and ethnicity for a population of more than 110,000 in 2015 it has 13 neighborhoods. You will shovel snow in the winter, love the spring and summer and delight in the fall colors. First class educations and New England values attract many families to communities listed below.
Listed as one of the top neighborhoods in Cambridge, it is flanked by West and North Cambridge and has about 12,000 residents of families, students and singles. Housing includes apartments, condos, multi and single family residences. Harvard and Porter Squares are connected by Massachusetts Avenue and the Fresh Pond Shopping Center provides retail stores with smaller shopping sites along Concord Avenue. Excellent Schools, parks and common areas make this an ideal family community. Median home prices are $620,000 and rents above $1600. Transportation with trolleys, buses and MBTA help people get around and Cambridge is considered the Number One Bicycling City in the US and even has a bicycle sharing program. The Bristol Lounge on Boyston Street features lunch, dinner, afternoon tea on weekends and gluten-free choices. The Druid, an Irish pub on Cambridge Street is known for great food like Burgers and Fish and Chips, Guinness and good entertainment and is a favorite with locals.
Apartments, single family homes, and condos with character and beautiful views beckon to buyers and renters. Between I-90 and I-93 you will find Harvard Square, Harvard Business School, Harvard University and MIT making this great for students and families. Bring your bike and explore the neighborhood with lots of parks, schools and shopping with two Whole Foods Markets and lots of local shops. The Park Bar and Restaurant on JFK Street is great for dates or families with a good menu, prompt service and atmosphere. For happy hour and meeting friends try the rooftop deck with a view of Harvard Square at the Daedalus Restaurant and Pub on Mount Auburn. Median Home prices start at $417,000, rents about $1400 and average income $61,000. Its not too far to Fenway Park in Boston to take in baseball with the Red Sox or see the Boston Celtics play basketball or the Red Wings for Ice Hockey.
Not far from Watertown or Somerset, West Cambridge is also called Neighborhood 10. Great Schools, parks and Fresh Pond Shopping Center and many local shops fill the area. Apartments, multi and single family living and historical buildings can be found. Many historic large family homes can start at $776,000 or in the millions according to size, location and amenities. With median rents $1800 plus the average income is in the $121,000 range and you are surrounded by the richest history of our nation. Popular employers include Harvard and MIT or other educational institutions, City and Federal government, biotechnology and software firms. Culture and intellectual pursuits are popular and there is much to learn and see. The Silvertone Bar and Grill in downtown Boston on Bromfield Street is a popular place with the corporate crown for food and drinks. Don't forget about the Boston Chowda Company at 1 Faneuil Hall Market Place in Boston for great soups and sandwiches. The Kids will love the Harvard Natural History Museum or the Curious George Bookstore on a family day. Cambridge has something for people of all ages and interests.