Living & Working in Cambridge
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $1.3M . Buying analysis suggests high upfront costs but potential long-term savings compared to renting.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
East Cambridge
URBANNorth Cambridge
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Cambridge, MA
here Public Schools is the primary district, with highly rated schools like Amigos School (K-8, dual-language program) and the area Rindge and Latin School (high school). The district consistently ranks high for academic performance and diversity. For ratings, see GreatSchools.
Childcare Costs
- Daycare: Average monthly cost ranges from $1,800 to $2,500 for full-time care at centers like Bright Horizons at Cambridge Center or KinderCare Learning Center.
- Nanny: Rates average $25–$35/hour, translating to $4,000–$5,600/month for full-time care. Data sourced from Care.com.
Recommended Pediatricians and Family Clinics
- Cambridge Pediatrics (75 Mount Auburn St) is a top-rated practice with board-certified pediatricians.
- Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates (26 Central St) offers comprehensive family care, including pediatric services.
Youth Sports Leagues
- Cambridge Youth Soccer: Seasonal fees range from $150–$250, with programs for ages 5–18.
- here Youth Baseball/Softball: Costs
Work-Life Balance Culture
Cambridge, MA, is known for its strong emphasis on work-life balance, particularly due to its academic and tech-driven economy. Many companies and institutions, such as Harvard University and MIT, offer flexible work arrangements. The city fosters a culture of intellectual engagement and leisure, with numerous coworking spaces like Workbar here and CIC the area.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Healthworks Fitness Centers for Women: Monthly membership around $100.
- MIT Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center: Open to the public with day passes at $20.
- Parks and Trails:
- Fresh Pond Reservation: A 2.25-mile loop trail popular for walking and running.
- Charles River Esplanade: Offers scenic running and biking paths along the river.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $12–$20 at casual spots like Clover Food Lab or Life Alive Organic Cafe.
- Dinner: $25–$50 per person at mid-range restaurants like The Hourly Oyster House or Pammy’s.
- Drinks: Craft cocktails average $12–$15 at bars like Brick & Mortar or The Automatic.
Annual Events and Festivals
- Cambridge Science Festival: Held in April, featuring interactive exhibits and talks. [Source](https://www.cambridges
The state income tax rate in Massachusetts is 5% for most earners, with certain capital gains taxed at 8.5% (Mass.gov). For fiscal year 2025, the residential property tax rate in Cambridge is $6.35 per $1,000 of assessed value, while commercial/industrial properties are taxed at $11.52 per $1,000 (City of here).
The cost of living in Cambridge is 70% higher than the national average, with housing costs significantly driving this disparity (PayScale). Compared to Boston, the area's cost of living is approximately 10-15% higher, particularly in housing and utilities.
Growing industries in Cambridge include biopharmaceuticals, which added 3,000 jobs in 2023, and artificial intelligence research, driven by institutions like MIT and Harvard (MassBio). The city's business startup climate is robust, supported by a high concentration of venture capital and a strong academic ecosystem,