Choosing the right neighborhood to live in can significantly impact your college experience—especially if you attend Harvard University. In 2025, as rental prices rise and student housing remains competitive, many are asking the question: Is Somerville cheaper than Cambridge for Harvard off-campus housing?
This comprehensive comparison aims to guide students, young professionals, and parents as they evaluate which city offers better value, accessibility, and lifestyle for those looking to live near Harvard without being tied to on-campus housing.
Understanding the Geography: Harvard, Cambridge, and Somerville
Harvard University is located primarily in Cambridge, Massachusetts. However, the surrounding areas, especially Somerville, have become popular alternatives for off-campus housing. With the two cities adjacent to each other and both offering access to Boston, the distinctions may seem minimal at first glance.
But the details matter. From rental costs and square footage to commute times and lifestyle perks, Cambridge and Somerville offer very different experiences for Harvard students.
Comparing Costs – Rent, Real Estate & Cost of Living
Average Rent Prices in 2025
- Cambridge: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment near Harvard Square in 2025 is estimated to be $3,250/month. Proximity to campus, amenities, and demand all contribute to this premium.
- Somerville: In contrast, a comparable one-bedroom in Davis Square or Union Square averages $2,800/month, with some areas going even lower for shared housing.
That’s a $450/month difference, or $5,400 per year, which can be significant for students on a tight budget.
Median Home Prices & Investment Potential
- Cambridge: Median home prices are around $1.25 million in 2025, driven by limited supply and high demand.
- Somerville: Slightly more affordable at $950,000, and with larger lot sizes and more multifamily homes.
For graduate students or families considering buying, Somerville may offer more flexibility and better long-term investment potential.
Cost Per Square Foot
Cambridge:
- Estimated cost per square foot: $1,200
- Smaller units, often renovated historical buildings
Somerville:
- Estimated cost per square foot: $950
- Larger average unit size with newer renovations or conversions
You simply get more space for your money in Somerville, a major consideration for students seeking shared housing or needing home office space.
Proximity to Harvard and Transportation
Walking & Biking Distance to Harvard
- Cambridge: Living in neighborhoods like Harvard Square or Central Square means walking to class in under 10 minutes.
- Somerville: Neighborhoods like Porter Square and Davis Square are about 1 to 2 miles from Harvard Yard. That’s a 10-minute bike ride or 20-minute transit ride.
MBTA Access
Cambridge:
- Red Line access from Central, Harvard, and Kendall SquaresHigh frequency, reliable service
Somerville:
- Red Line access from Porter and Davis SquaresNew Green Line Extension serving Union Square and East Somerville
Transit Scores
While Cambridge is slightly more walkable and bikeable, Somerville is catching up fast with its new Green Line stations and continued infrastructure improvements.
Car-Free Living
Both cities make it easy to live without a car. With Zipcar, Bluebikes, and great public transit, students can comfortably navigate Boston and the surrounding areas.
Lifestyle, Community & Student Culture
Housing costs are important, but the vibe of the neighborhood can make or break your off-campus experience. Let’s compare lifestyle elements.
Cambridge: Classic, Academic, and Bustling
- Historic streets, college-town energy
- Access to Harvard Square bookstores, cafes, and academic events
- Bustling yet structured environment
- More upscale dining and boutiques
Cambridge feels like an extension of Harvard. If you love the academic hustle, want to bump into professors at cafes, and prioritize proximity, Cambridge might be your top choice.
Somerville: Creative, Quirky, and Local
- Known for its artistic and progressive community
- Events like Somerville PorchFest, artisan markets, and open studios
- More neighborhood diversity: family homes, artists, students, tech workers
- Laid-back vibe with affordable eateries, breweries, and vintage shops
Somerville delivers a creative atmosphere. Students who want space, a bit of quiet, and strong community energy may find Somerville the better fit.
Dining & Entertainment
- Cambridge: More formal restaurants, international cuisine, and historic pubs.
- Somerville: Food trucks, ethnic spots, farmers markets, and community spaces.
Overall, Somerville offers more affordable lifestyle options, while Cambridge leans premium.
Rental Flexibility and Leasing Trends
Lease Terms and Conditions
- Cambridge: Landlords often require longer-term leases (12+ months), higher deposits, and extensive background checks. Lease break fees are usually steep.
- Somerville: More flexible lease terms, more sublet-friendly, and a growing number of co-living or roommate-match services.
Short-Term & Sublet Options
Somerville has more Airbnb-converted rentals, making it easier to find short-term leases for internships, summer programs, or semester breaks.
Student Preferences
- Grad students and researchers tend to prefer Cambridge for direct access to labs and libraries.
- Undergrads, remote learners, and those with side gigs often find Somerville’s flexibility and affordability more attractive.
The Real Value Proposition – What Are You Getting for Your Money?
Let’s quantify the value by comparing what each city delivers in terms of space, cost, access, and quality of life.
Bottom Line: While Cambridge offers prestige and location, Somerville delivers better overall value in terms of cost, space, and culture.
Real Voices – Student Perspectives
"Cambridge is amazing, but it was hard to justify the cost for a small studio. I moved to Somerville, and now I pay less and have roommates and more space. I bike to class in under 15 minutes." — Priya M., Harvard GSAS Student
"Living in Somerville feels like I get the best of both worlds: close to campus and connected to an artsy, engaged community. Rent is lower, and the vibe is just more me." — James W., Harvard Law
"I started in Cambridge but moved to Union Square during my 2nd year. I actually prefer it now. Great food, bigger place, and I don’t feel like I’m missing anything." — Linda C., Extension School
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
So, is Somerville cheaper than Cambridge in 2025?
Yes – and not just in dollars.
Somerville offers:
- Lower average rents
- Larger living spaces
- More flexible leases
- A strong community vibe
- Creative lifestyle options
Cambridge provides:
- Walking access to campus
- Academic prestige
- Historic charm
- Faster access to Harvard resources
Who Should Choose Cambridge?
- Students who want to walk to class
- Those deeply involved in campus lifeIndividuals who value proximity over price
Who Should Choose Somerville?
- Budget-conscious students
- Students with hybrid/remote learning schedules
- Those seeking community, flexibility, and space
Final Verdict
While Cambridge will always be Harvard’s home turf, Somerville has become the smarter, more economical choice for off-campus housing in 2025. With ongoing infrastructure development, better lease flexibility, and vibrant culture, it’s not just about saving money—it’s about upgrading your quality of life.