Davis Square offers excellent access to public transit with nearby rapid transit stations and approximately 10 bus lines serving the neighborhood, making commuting convenient and efficient. The area features thoughtfully designed bicycling infrastructure and several bike-share stations to support alternative transportation options. Residents find a wide variety of general and specialty grocery stores, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes in close proximity. Educational institutions, including primary and secondary schools, are easily reachable from most locations. The neighborhood includes around 10 parks, providing ample opportunities to connect with green spaces. Housing options range from duplexes to small apartment buildings and single detached homes, offering diverse choices for different preferences.
Davis Square is a "jack-of-all-trades" when it comes to the feel of this neighborhood. This part of Somerville has numerous areas to explore. Even though there are relatively few nearby entertainment venues, there are a very large number of people around most of the time, and places to go out at night are well-spread throughout the neighborhood. The noise levels in Davis Square are reasonably low, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor. It is very easy to get to public green spaces in the neighborhood since there are approximately 40 of them close by for residents to enjoy.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Located on Highland Avenue in the heart of Davis Square, this historic theater has been entertaining locals since 1914 with independent films, concerts, and live performances, making it a beloved cultural hub with its original architectural charm.
This popular multi-use trail begins right at Davis Square, providing residents and visitors with a scenic, car-free route for biking, running, and walking that stretches all the way to Bedford, passing through picturesque parks and bustling neighborhoods.
A longstanding favorite on Holland Street, Mike’s serves up classic thin-crust pizza late into the night, and is a true Davis Square institution for students, families, and late-night crowds after events or a night out.
Tucked away on College Avenue just off the main square, this historic library branch offers a cozy setting for reading, browsing, or attending community events, beloved by local families and students alike.
A beloved ice cream shop that anchors Elm Street, JP Licks is a go-to spot for inventive and classic ice cream flavors—drawing locals in year-round for coffee, frozen treats, and its lively corner-side atmosphere.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This weekly, rain-or-shine market is an easy walk from Davis Square and a practical way to shop from Massachusetts farms and food producers. Residents can pick up produce, baked goods, prepared foods, cider, seafood, and other local products while supporting the neighborhood’s food economy.
View event details →Families living near Davis Square can make a short trip to one of Somerville’s library branches for a dinosaur-themed day of activities. It is a low-cost, neighborhood-friendly option for children, especially on a school-day afternoon when parents want an engaging activity close to home.
View event details →This accessible, interactive opera performance offers Davis Square residents an unusual cultural outing without traveling into downtown Boston. Its participatory format makes it especially suitable for families and newcomers to opera who want a relaxed, community-oriented introduction to live performance.
View event details →The Crystal Ballroom is directly in Davis Square, making this a convenient night out for local residents who want live music without arranging a car or long transit trip. Emancipator’s electronic, instrumental sound is a strong fit for a midweek concert close to neighborhood restaurants and bars.
View event details →This adults-only themed performance brings an unconventional nightlife option to the heart of Davis Square. It is particularly convenient for nearby residents looking for an evening event that combines music, spectacle, and alternative performance culture, with plenty of walkable dining options before or after the show.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Davis Square
Local characteristics and demographics for Davis Square
