Cambridge
Homes for sale in Cambridge, MA
Best known as the birthplace of American higher education, Cambridge is a suburb of the Greater Boston metropolitan area brimming with academic excellence and a rich history. It is the home of two of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world: Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
With a population of more than 118,000, Cambridge occupies 7.1 square miles. It is one of the oldest places in Massachusetts and has geographically been a part of Middlesex County since 1643. Today, this academic and technological hub remains tied to the present and the future of research and higher education in America.
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WELCOME TO CAMBRIDGE, MA!
Harvard University in Cambridge, MA
Cambridge was originally named Newtowne when it was founded by Puritan leaders of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630. The name “Newtowne” reflected the settlers’ intention to establish a new town that could serve as the capital of the colony. The name was changed to Cambridge in 1638, in honor of the English university city of Cambridge, reflecting the settlers’ aspirations for the town to become a center of learning and culture.
Cambridge was the birthplace of America’s first institution of higher learning. The change in the town name also coincided with the founding of Harvard College, which was created by the colonial legislature. The college was named after John Harvard, who donated his library and half of his estate to the institution when he died in 1638. This early support provided the foundation for Harvard’s growth into one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions. It has produced 160 Nobel Prize winners, the most of any university in the world.
Cambridge was the site of America’s first printing press. The year 1638 was just as significant because it was the time Stephen Daye, an English locksmith and printer, set up the first printing press in America. He set up press at Harvard and produced the first printed work in America, known as the “Bay Psalm Book,” in 1640. This event helped support the intellectual and educational growth of the colonies, aligning with Cambridge’s role as an emerging center of learning, particularly with Harvard College located there.
Cambridge responded to America’s increasing industrialization by founding MIT in 1861. Initially called the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston Society of Natural History, MIT quickly became a leading institution for scientific research and technological innovation. It has contributed significantly to advancements in engineering, computer science, and biology, producing 97 Nobel Prize winners as of 2023.
Cambridge, MA today
Walking around the storied, tree-lined streets of modern-day Cambridge is a pleasant experience. The town has kept alive remnants of its past while also housing institutions at the forefront of technological and scientific advancement.
The Harvard Square area is perhaps the best example of preserving the pedestrian-centered street life of old with its cobblestones, architectural style, and distinct red-brick aesthetic that people have come to associate with Harvard. On the eastern side of the city, some of these older structures stand side-by-side with Contemporary and Brutalist buildings in the global innovation hub that is Kendall Square.
Both sides of Cambridge are connected by reliable public transport, an expansive network of protected bike lanes, and miles of wide shaded sidewalks. Joggers and bike commuters are normally seen on these paths. Numerous parks and green spaces are distributed all over the city, adding life to a community that is already youthful, dynamic, and composed of some of the most brilliant people from all over the world.
HOMES FOR SALE IN CAMBRIDGE, MA
SOLD IN CAMBRIDGE, MA: A multiple-story, open concept, loft-inspired home with showstopping vaulted ceilings, clerestory windows, and hardwood floors
Cambridge’s deep history has resulted in a wide variety of architectural styles and the oldest neighborhoods feature designs spanning several centuries. Many homes for sale in Cambridge, MA are built in the Colonial and Georgian designs. Other Cambridge, MA houses with a similar symmetrical plan and classical elements are built in the Federal style, which has a different interior layout from Colonial and Georgian architecture.
Several houses along Brattle Street are in the Greek Revival mold while Victorian houses are another common sight around Harvard Square. Other architectural designs found among homes for sale in Cambridge, MA include Craftsman, Colonial Revival, Modern, Post-Modern, and Contemporary.
The array of architectural styles, not to mention its historical significance, makes Cambridge one of the most desirable places to live in America. Its proximity to academic institutions and lucrative companies, walkability, sustainable street design, and authenticity give it a timeless appeal.
Cambridge, MA real estate market
Homes for sale in Cambridge, MA have traditionally received multiple offers and don’t stay long on the market.
Roughly 70% percent of people residing in Cambridge are renters. Properties classified as apartments (apartment complexes and small apartment buildings) constitute around 85% percent of the residential buildings in the city. Single-family homes and townhouses make up the remaining 15%.
While the supply of Cambridge, MA real estate is skewed towards one property type, the influx of upper-middle to high-income professionals working in tech, biotech, and higher education sustain the demand for houses, townhouses, and condos.
TOP NEIGHBORHOODS
Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA
Cambridge’s eclectic neighborhoods have their own distinct character. Read about some of the city’s most vibrant communities below. We’ve highlighted each one’s history, uniqueness, and the kinds of properties to expect in these areas.
Harvard Square
Also known simply as “the square,” this is perhaps the most iconic area in Cambridge. It is first and foremost a commercial center for students, tourists, and western Cambridge residents, being the convergence point of several important streets (Massachusetts Ave. and the streets of Brattle, Mount Auburn, and John F. Kennedy).
Several national chains have set up shop in the square to take advantage of the heavy foot traffic, but several long-standing local bookstores, cafes, restaurants, and boutiques maintain a healthy and loyal customer base. “The pit” by the MBTA subway entrance is a favorite venue of buskers, street performers, and activists. On nearby Massachusetts Avenue, chess aficionados and hustlers play with anyone willing to take them on for a bit of cash or just for the kicks.
Homes in Harvard Square. Many people live on Harvard Square’s side streets with its many old homes. You can still find many wood frame residences from the 18th century on Winthrop, Dunster, and South Street. Some Colonial houses are built on the larger properties while mid-tier options include the quintessential Brownstones, townhouses, and condos.
Kendall Square
Unlike its western counterpart, this area has experienced multiple rebirths in its history. It was originally a salt marsh of the Charles River that transformed into a gritty industrial center in the mid-19th century, housing the Kendall Boiler and Tank Company which it’s named after. MIT moved here in 1916, but the neighborhood languished until the 80s when pharma giant Biogen laid the groundwork for the biotech, life sciences, research, startup, and IT hub that Kendall Square is today.
Due to its main identity as “the most innovative square mile on the planet,” several modern offices, retailers, and housing projects now call this area their home. Its many green spaces and scenic views of Charles River only add to the charm of living and working in Kendall Square.
Homes in Kendall Square. Typical Cambridge, MA homes for sale in and around this modern neighborhood are high-rise condos and apartments. Many of these are integrated with smart-home technology and feature sleek contemporary finishes. Large windows maximize natural light and allow resplendent skyline and river views. A few upper-end buildings have roof decks and balconies with panoramic views of downtown Boston and Cambridge. Some properties have modern amenities on the inside but maintain historical details of Victorian and Colonial architecture on the outside.
Brattle Street
The beautiful and historical Brattle Street has long been associated with luxury. It starts in Harvard Square then extends into an opulent residential neighborhood running through the westside of Cambridge, roughly parallel with Charles River.
Before the American Revolution, it was called “King’s Highway” or “Tory Row.” From 1775 to 1776, George Washington set up his base of operations in Longfellow House, a Georgian-style mansion on Brattle that would become the abode of the famed poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow the following century.
Homes on Brattle Street. Today, the street is lined with stately single-family homes with wide yards, elegantly landscaped gardens, and spacious, tree-shaded sidewalks. Properties on Brattle are represented by various architectural influences. Many Greek Revival, Colonial, and Victorian houses date back from the 18th and 19th centuries. Recent new constructions feature contemporary designs with elements of Asian and European architecture.
Central Square
Central Square is known for its rich cultural diversity and dynamic nightlife. The area boasts a wide array of restaurants featuring global cuisines, music venues hosting live performances, and trendy bars.
Central Square is also a hub for the arts, with murals, galleries, and community events celebrating creativity. Additionally, the Central Square Theater and the Middle East nightclub are key cultural landmarks in the area.
Homes in Central Square. The neighborhood has a distinct urban vibe, with a mix of historic buildings and modern developments. It’s a place where tech workers, artists, and long-time residents mingle, creating a unique and inclusive community feel. Housing options range from contemporary townhouses to renovated historic homes.
Inman Square
Inman Square is a quirky and eclectic neighborhood known for its vibrant food scene and strong sense of community. The area features a diverse mix of restaurants offering everything from gourmet cuisine to comfort food, as well as charming cafes and unique shops.
Inman Square has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, with a focus on local businesses and cultural events. The neighborhood is also home to several music venues and bars, making it a lively spot for nightlife.
Homes in Inman Square. The distinctive character is further enhanced by its colorful murals and public art installations, which reflect the area’s creative spirit. This is a popular residential area with charming multi-family homes and apartments.
Porter Square
Porter Square is a bustling commercial hub with a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and residential areas. The neighborhood is anchored by the Porter Square Shopping Center, which features a variety of shops and dining options.
Porter Square is also a key transportation point, with a Red Line MBTA station providing easy access to Boston and other parts of Cambridge. The area has a diverse population, including students from nearby Lesley University and Harvard University.
Homes in Porter Square. The vibrant atmosphere is complemented by its eclectic mix of businesses, from bookstores and cafes to Asian markets and specialty shops. Housing options include single-family homes, condos, and apartments.
Cambridgeport
Cambridgeport is a charming residential neighborhood located near the Charles River. Known for its beautiful Victorian homes and tree-lined streets, the area offers a serene, community-focused environment.
Proximity to MIT and the river’s recreational paths makes it popular among students, faculty, and professionals. Cambridgeport features several parks and green spaces, including Magazine Beach, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Homes in Cambridgeport. The mix of historic and modern architecture creates a visually appealing streetscape. Local amenities include small cafes, restaurants, and shops, adding to the area’s cozy, village-like feel and making it as popular among families looking for single-family homes and condos.
North Cambridge
North Cambridge offers a quieter, more suburban feel compared to other parts of the city. The neighborhood is characterized by its mix of single-family homes, parks, and small businesses, making it a popular choice for families. The area has a diverse population and a strong sense of community, with numerous local events and activities.
Parks and green spaces provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, while the nearby Alewife Brook Parkway offers convenient shopping and dining options. Easy access to public transportation, including the Red Line, makes commuting to other parts of Cambridge and Boston straightforward.
Homes in North Cambridge. Housing includes a mix of single-family homes and condos,
West Cambridge
West Cambridge is a primarily residential area known for its historic homes and scenic beauty. The neighborhood features elegant Victorian houses, well-maintained gardens, and tree-lined streets, creating a peaceful and affluent atmosphere.
Proximity to the Charles River and Fresh Pond provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, biking, and boating. West Cambridge is also home to several parks and conservation areas, offering residents a serene escape from the urban environment.
Homes in West Cambridge. A mix of small shops, cafes, and restaurants makes this neighborhood even more charming and livable. Look for historic homes and excellent schools.
East Cambridge
East Cambridge has a rich industrial history and has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years. The neighborhood features a mix of historic buildings and modern condos, creating a dynamic urban environment.
East Cambridge is known for its vibrant dining and shopping scene, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and boutiques. The area is also home to the CambridgeSide shopping mall and several parks along the Charles River.
Homes in East Cambridge. The neighborhood’s proximity to Kendall Square makes it an attractive location for tech professionals and students. East Cambridge’s blend of old and new, along with its convenient location, makes it a vibrant and desirable place to live, with a mix of modern apartments and historic homes.
Seek out the quiet streets and charming neighborhoods of Cambridge, MA
LIVING IN CAMBRIDGE, MA
Sailing down Charles River past the Cambridge skyline
Niche.com ranks Cambridge as the best American city for young professionals and among the Top 5 in terms of livability, raising a family, and health of its citizenry. Living among the globally competitive institutions and storied streets is a community of accomplished individuals and industry professionals who pay top dollar for the high quality of life.
Cost of living
Cambridge, MA is worth the price of living in the convenience, allure, and prestige of calling this your neighborhood. The homes are pricier compared to most cities in the US. Expect your typical property to cost more than twice that of the national median, and rent to be proportional to that price.
Other basic living expenses aren’t that far off from nationwide averages, however. Food spend is about the same as that of an average city. Alternative mobility options mean residents can get around easily without a private vehicle, saving them money in the long term.
The slightly higher healthcare costs are counterbalanced by the quality of care, numerous parks, people-centered infrastructure, and diverse food options. It’s an environment where people can easily integrate a healthier lifestyle and diet regimens and receive the best medical care when they do need it.
Schools
When it comes to education, Cambridge is peerless.
The Cambridge Public Schools district serves kindergarten through 12th grade. It includes elementary schools, middle schools, and Cambridge Rindge and Latin School (CRLS), which is the only public high school in the city. The district is known for its diverse student population and rigorous academic programs, reflecting the city’s vibrant intellectual and cultural environment.
Harvard, America’s first university, has produced some of the world’s best scholars and professionals for multiple generations. It is also an NCAA Division I Ivy League competitor. On the other side of the city, MIT is an equally prestigious science and technology research university on a global scale.
There are higher education institutions in Cambridge that excel in their specialized fields. Hult Business School’s MBA program is regarded as one of the best in the world by The Economist, Fortune, Financial Times, and more. It has an international faculty and diverse students who bring multiple perspectives into the classroom. Lesley University’s most reputable programs are the liberal arts, psychology, digital arts, and illustration, perfectly rounding out the whole town of Cambridge as a place to fulfill the highest educational aspirations.
Things to do
Cambridge’s young demographic means that there’s no shortage of fun things to do. The food scene, culture, and vibrant community life of a university town meld seamlessly with the historical allure of its old buildings, streets, and parks.
Wander around Harvard Square. The busy commercial center of Cambridge is packed with interesting boutiques, bookstores, cafes, restaurants, buskers, and Harvard students. Regardless of the time of day, the area remains lively due to the heavy foot traffic. People can just saunter around, hang with friends, people watch, or enjoy random street performers. Doing just about anything – or nothing much – in an open, relaxed setting is a joy and entertainment in itself.
Enjoy live music at several popular nightspots. The high concentration of young people in Cambridge is the lifeblood of the thriving local music scene. Thus, there’s no shortage of musical acts and live performances around town. Club Passim, The Cantab Lounge, The Middle East Restaurant & Nightclub, and Sinclair are just some of the intimate venues where local legends, up-and-coming acts, and nationally known artists of all musical genres show up for live gigs. A few of these places also host regular poetry slams and comedy nights.
Explore the world’s cuisine through the local food scene. Wherever in the world you may be from, you’re bound to find a taste of home in Cambridge. The city’s thriving food scene offers a diverse dining experience inspired by a global palate. Some of the most popular local food businesses include:
Armando’s, a legendary casual dining spot specializing in New York-style pizza and sub sandwiches. Their thin-crust pizzas stand out over most chain restaurants because of their consistency in taste, foldability, and crispiness.
Sofra, a compact, Middle Eastern-Mediterranean cafe and bakery serves decadent pastries and savory bites inspired by the cuisine of various cultures. Their popular offerings include traditional Turkish breakfast spreads, Middle Eastern cold salads, and Persian spiced doughnuts.
Yume Wo Katare, a cozy counter-serve spot offers a budget-friendly ramen menu, comes with no frills, and is regarded by many as the most delicious ramen they’ve tasted outside of Japan.
EXPLORE CAMBRIDGE LUXURY HOMES WITH SEYDYSS BARRETO
This charming1920’s building has been converted into a modern condo with new appliances, easy access, and other perks.
Seydyss Barreto Luxury Homes is ready to help you seize your home-buying opportunities in Cambridge. We have overseen every kind of upscale property transaction for more than 20 years, making sure that every one of our clients is well represented and walks away satisfied. Let’s discuss what you need. Give us a call at 978.590.8918 or message us here to get started.