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Navigate apartment hunting and city life like a local with our curated articles about Cambridge, Massachusetts.
National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Cambridge’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of 111 million American renters nationwide.
"Cambridge renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "With expensive rents in coastal cities, it comes as no surprise that cost of living is a source of dissatisfaction in Cambridge."
Key findings in Cambridge include the following:
Renters say:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
*Based on base prices that don’t include fees
Innovation hub defines East Cambridge, where technology companies surround Kendall Square creating walking-distance employment unusual for typically commute-heavy metropolitan areas. The neighborhood sits minutes from downtown Boston via excellent public transportation including multiple subway and bus options, creating car-free living possibilities without downtown rental premiums. Though lacking the historic charm of Harvard Square, significantly more reasonable rental rates, newer construction with more reliable systems, and proximity to both MIT resources and Boston employment typically outweigh these aesthetic considerations for practical households prioritizing functionality over historic prestige increasingly requiring substantial housing compromises.
Intellectual energy defines Neighborhood Nine, where Cambridge's northwestern district offers quieter alternatives to Harvard Square's intensity. The area features distinctive architecture from Victorian to Colonial Revival, while nearby Porter Square provides practical amenities within walking distance. Though rental rates reflect Cambridge's overall premium market, the neighborhood offers better space-to-price value than Harvard-adjacent districts while maintaining similar access to the city's academic institutions and cultural amenities through excellent transit connections.
Academic energy radiates through North Cambridge, where historic triple-deckers and converted factory lofts house a mix of students, professors, and young professionals. Residents enjoy the vibrant Porter Square's Japanese markets and independent bookstores, with the Red Line providing quick access to Harvard, MIT, and downtown Boston. The neighborhood's community gardens create green space gathering points, though winter parking during snow emergencies requires careful planning. Bike lanes throughout make car-free living practical despite New England weather challenges.