Suppose you’ve caught a speck of the wander dust and your compass points to southeast Middlesex County, welcome to Cambridge, MA. 

As a city in Massachusetts, right across the Charles River in the Greater Boston metropolitan area, Cambridge brims with history, innovation, and some seriously delicious clam chowder. 

Known as the intellectual capital of the world and home to Ivy League schools, you wouldn’t be hard-pressed to find your kind of crowd in this city.

Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or a curious mind seeking a hub for geniuses, moving to Cambridge will surely be rewarding. 

But before you pack your bags and dream of walks along the Charles River, let’s get you prepped for a smooth move.

1. Permits and Pointers for an Easy Move

Let’s tackle the practical stuff first: moving permits. Yes, a little paperwork goes a long way. 

Cambridge requires a moving vehicle permit, which you can easily obtain from the city’s website. Some guidelines on the website will direct you and the movers in Cambridge, MA offer better on what you can or cannot do. 

For instance, trailers of any kind cannot be unattached and left on city-owned streets. Likewise, there are streets in the city that do not allow/grant moving van permits at all. Apply and pay for the permit at least seven calendar days before the permit start date. 

The cost starts from $60 per day for a single moving truck. However, this price is dependent on the length of the moving vehicle. 

You should expect to shell out about $140 per day for a 120-foot vehicle. Also, permits are granted for a maximum of two consecutive days, so you may want to factor that in your move date for seamless transit.

Pro Tip: 

Cambridge streets can be narrow. So plan your route and moving times to avoid rush hour. Also, make sure your moving truck isn’t too large to navigate these tight spaces.

1. The A – Z on Cambridge’s Affordability

The cost of living in Cambridge, MA, is a staggering 73% higher than the national average.

Keeping it real, Cambridge isn’t exactly known for bargain-basement housing. But knowledge is power. 

After you scope out the landscape, the deal is that the closer you are to Harvard Square or Kendall Square, the steeper the rent. But if you venture a little further out, you’ll find charming neighborhoods with more wallet-friendly options. 

• Average Rent: $3,610
• Median Home Value: $1.6 million

For basic utilities, you can expect to pay about $210.77 monthly on energy while your phone use can rack up a $226.74 bill per month.

Note:

Properties sometimes record as high as 6% increase in value within 30 days. You can also expect to shell out over a million dollars to own a property in Cambridge.

1. Brain Power and Education Options

Cambridge is home to world-renowned institutions—it’s a known fact!

Institutions like Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) need no introduction. But there’s also Lesley University and Buckingham Browne & Nichols for those seeking a more specialized path. 

Plus, the public schools in Cambridge are consistently ranked among the best in the state, with their excellent academic and extracurricular programs. 

Note: The Cambridge school district quality rating bests 88.9% of all U.S. school districts. 

So, whether you’re a lifelong learner or have little scholars, moving to Cambridge offers the advantage of a stimulating environment.

Remember; you’re in the right place if you’re looking for top-tier education.

1. A Dive into the Job Market

Without question, Cambridge is a magnet for ambitious minds—and it shows in the booming job market. 

From biotech startups in Kendall Square (often referred to as the most innovative square mile on the planet) to research institutions and tech giants, there are lots of employment and career advancement opportunities. 

• Median Household Income: $121,539
• Unemployment Rate: 3.5%
• Poverty Rate: 12.1%

The opportunities become even more endless if you’re in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math). With the presence of Harvard and MIT means there’s a constant influx of opportunities in research and academia. 

But the creative minds and business whizzes need not fear. Cambridge has a place for you, too—with design firms, marketing agencies, and a thriving arts scene. 

Still asking, why move to Cambridge? 

Networking events and job fairs are common. So make sure to polish your resume and LinkedIn profile. The next big thing in your career might just be a job fair away in Cambridge.

1. Zip, Zoom, or Glide: Transportation Options in Cambridge

Yes, cruising around in new wheels is cool but not necessary in Cambridge. 

The city boasts a near-perfect walk score, making it a pedestrian paradise. Moreover, the Charles River Transportation Management Agency (CRTMA) still provides shuttle services around the city.

There’s also the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), which equally offers a reliable network of subways and buses. You get to be whisked to Boston and beyond on the Red Line. Another one: the MBTA Green Line at the Lechmere station adds to the convenience of public transportation.

Cambridge is incredibly bike-friendly, with over 80 miles of bike lanes and the presence of a bike-sharing program makes it an even more convenient option. 

Note:

If you’re driving, though, be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking.

1. Vibe Check: Discovering Local Culture

Cambridge is a city of contrasts where historic charm meets cutting-edge innovation. 

You can spend a day wandering the cobblestone streets of Harvard Square, browsing bookstores and cafes, and catching street performers. Then, head to Kendall Square and be stunned at the architectural marvels of the future.

For a taste of international flavors, Central Square is your haven, with restaurants representing cuisines from all corners of the globe. 

Do you need more variety? Inman Square will surely meet your needs with an offbeat charm that is incomparable in the state.

You also won’t want to miss the Cambridge Science Festival, the local farmers’ markets, a peaceful stroll through Harvard Yard, or becoming part of the thriving arts scene with visits to the American Repertory Theater.

Other places to visit include:

• Harvard Art Museum for art dating as far back as the Middle Ages
• MIT Museum for the Science and Technology exhibits
• The North Point Park offers a view of natural beauty highlighted by the Boston skyline and a magnificent waterfront.

1. Safety and Security

If you have safety concerns about where to live in Cambridge, MA based on safety, you can rest easy. 

Cambridge boasts a relatively low crime rate compared to many urban areas. As a university city with a population of 118,403 residents, the crime rate is pretty low.

Although there is a 1 in 243 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime, your worry should be more geared towards property crimes. 

Theft, especially auto theft, is the most common crime in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

While the Cambridge Police Department is proactive, contributing to the city’s reputation for safety, you should avoid situations that can put you at risk of such crimes.

Note:

Investing in good home security measures and getting to know your neighbors can also help you feel more secure.

Bottom Line—moving to Cambridge, Massachusetts

There’s no sugarcoating this: moving to Cambridge, MA promises an enriching experience filled with academic excellence and vibrant culture. 

With a booming job market, Cambridge is ideal for young professionals, families, and intellectuals. Moreover, the city offers a blend of historic charm and modern living, with efficient public transport, walkable streets, and bike-friendly infrastructure. 

However, prepare for higher living costs, but the enriching experience of Cambridge’s culture and opportunities makes it worthwhile. 

With careful planning and a bit of local know-how, you’ll feel right at home in no time.