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Somerville, Boston: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

Hip alternative to Cambridge. Davis Square nightlife, diverse food scene, and artist community.

Commute to Center

20 min

metro

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

hipsterdiverseaffordable

Rent Prices in Somerville

Monthly rent in USD ($). First-hand contracts are directly with the landlord or housing company. Second-hand (sublet) contracts are typically more expensive.

Apartment SizeFirst-Hand RentSecond-Hand Rent
1 Bedroom$2,400 - $2,800/mo$2,700 - $3,200/mo
2 Bedrooms$2,900 - $3,300/mo$3,300 - $3,800/mo
3 Bedrooms$3,500 - $4,100/mo$4,000 - $4,700/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Somerville, Boston?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Somerville costs $2,700 - $3,200/month (second-hand contract) or $2,400 - $2,800/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $3,300 - $3,800/month, and a 3-bedroom from $4,000 - $4,700/month.
Is Somerville safe for expats?
Somerville has a safety rating of 4/5 (Safe). It is generally considered a safe area for expats and families.
How long is the commute from Somerville to Boston center?
The commute from Somerville to Boston city center takes approximately 20 minutes by metro.
What is Somerville like to live in?
Hip alternative to Cambridge. Davis Square nightlife, diverse food scene, and artist community. The neighborhood is known for being hipster, diverse, affordable.

Other Neighborhoods in Boston

Back Bay

10 min walk to center

1BR from $3,400/mo

upscalehistoricshopping

South End

10 min metro to center

1BR from $3,200/mo

foodieLGBTQ+artsy

Cambridge

15 min metro to center

1BR from $3,100/mo

academicintellectualdiverse

Beacon Hill

5 min walk to center

1BR from $3,300/mo

historicelegantcharming

Jamaica Plain

25 min metro to center

1BR from $2,400/mo

diverseprogressivecommunity

Dorchester

25 min metro to center

1BR from $2,000/mo

diverseaffordablecommunity

Medford

30 min metro to center

1BR from $2,200/mo

suburbanaffordablefamily-friendly

Allston-Brighton

20 min metro to center

1BR from $2,300/mo

studentaffordablediverse

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Updated Jan 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Jan 2026 rent data