If you’re considering a move to Somerville and want a neighborhood that offers dynamic city energy with a friendly, close-knit community, Davis Square might be your perfect match. Nestled in the northwestern corner of Somerville near the Cambridge border, Davis Square is a lively hub that’s as beloved for its local coffee shops as for its sense of belonging. Here’s what you’ll want to know about life in Davis Square—from housing options to family life and everything in between.
Community Vibe: Where Creativity and Neighborliness Meet
Davis Square pulses with a laid-back, creative spirit. On any given day, you’ll see neighbors chatting over coffee at Diesel Café or browsing quirky vinyl at Somerville Grooves. Residents love the pedestrian buzz on Elm Street and Highland Avenue, with abundant outdoor seating and sidewalk musicians in warm months. There’s a palpable pride in local institutions like Somerville Theatre, which hosts international film festivals and indie concerts.
The population’s a vibrant blend:
- Young professionals working in tech and academia
- Artists and musicians drawn by the neighborhood’s cultural scene
- Longtime locals and new families alike
Davis Square has an inclusive vibe where it’s easy to get to know your neighbors, whether you’re volunteering at the annual Honk! Festival or dropping by farmers’ markets on the plaza.
Types of Housing: From Historic Triple Deckers to Modern Condos
Housing in Davis Square is quintessentially Somerville—think beautiful triple-decker houses lining leafy streets, classic Victorians alongside modern condo developments, and the occasional warehouse-turned-loft. You’ll find:
- Apartments and Condos: Many of the newer, energy-efficient buildings are clustered closest to the square itself, along Highland Avenue and Dover Street. These range from compact studios to luxurious multi-bedroom units.
- Triple-Deckers: Much of the surrounding residential area—streets like Morrison Avenue, Holland Street, and Willow Avenue—feature classic three-family homes, often owner-occupied or divided into rental units.
- Single-Family Homes: Less common but available, particularly on side roads like Wallace Street or Grove Street.
Expect a competitive rental and sales market, as the area’s popularity means units rarely stay vacant for long.
Walkability: Everything at Your Doorstep
One of the best parts about living in Davis Square is that nearly everything you need is within easy walking distance. Davis scores a “Walker’s Paradise” on walkscore.com, thanks to:
- Dozens of restaurants, from casual pizza at Oath to upscale Italian at Posto
- Staples like CVS, banks, a post office, and hardware stores
- Bike repair shops, yoga studios, and local boutiques
You’re just steps to the Davis Square MBTA Red Line station, making car-free commuting a breeze. For those who bike, the Minuteman Bike Path connects directly through the square, linking Somerville to Arlington, Cambridge, and Boston.
Schools and Family-Friendliness: A Welcoming Place for All Ages
Davis Square is popular with families, thanks to its walkability, playful green spaces, and access to high-performing schools. It’s in the district for the West Somerville Neighborhood School (K-8), known for its engaged PTA and diverse student body. Families also appreciate the easy walk or bike ride to Somerville High School.
Other family-friendly features include:
- Multiple playgrounds, including Hodgkins-Curtin Park just off Holland Street
- Kid-centric events like PorchFest, when bands play family-friendly sets from neighborhood porches
- Library access at the Somerville Public Library (West Branch), right near the square
You’ll see parents pushing strollers through the plaza, kids biking on quiet sidestreets, and a steady stream of teens and college students from nearby Tufts University.
Parks and Green Spaces: Urban Oasis
Despite being a bustling urban center, Davis Square is surprisingly green. Locals frequently gather at:
- Kenney Park (Chester Street): Popular for picnics and basketball games, this park is a quiet spot tucked between residential homes.
- Hodgkins-Curtin Park: Features two playgrounds, tree-shaded benches, and a beloved splash pad in summer.
- Community Path: Suitable for walking, biking, and jogging, this linear park runs right through the heart of Davis, providing a leafy urban escape and direct access to neighboring towns.
Gardening lovers can join a local community garden, while dog owners are often seen mingling near the park entrances in the late afternoon.
Safety: A Strong Sense of Security
Davis Square is considered one of the safest areas in Somerville, with strong neighborhood associations and active community policing. Residents praise the attentive Somerville Police Department outpost right on Holland Street, as well as well-lit streets and a steady presence of foot traffic even late into the evening.
Safety tips or concerns are usually focused on typical urban issues, such as locking bikes securely and being mindful of crosswalks. Most families and solo residents report feeling comfortable walking home after dark thanks to the lively nightlife and close-knit neighborhood feel.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Commuting from Davis Square couldn’t be easier. The Red Line station gets you to Harvard Square in one stop (about 5 minutes) and downtown Boston (Park Street, South Station) in 15-20 minutes. Commuters also love the streamlined bus routes along College Avenue and Highland Avenue, and the easy bike access to Cambridge’s major employers and universities.
For those working at Tufts University, the campus is practically next door—just a 10-minute stroll up College Ave. The high-tech corridor in the Kendall Square/Cambridge area is a short T or bike ride away.
What Residents Love Most
Ask any Davis Square resident what keeps them rooted here, and you’ll hear a consistent refrain:
- The ability to walk everywhere—no car needed!
- The “small town in the city” atmosphere, with annual festivals, pop-up art, and friendly, involved neighbors
- Unique local businesses (no shortage of coffee shops, bakeries, and dinner spots)
- The feeling of safety, inclusion, and vibrancy that comes from living where people work together to build a real community
In short, Davis Square blends urban energy with neighborhood warmth. If you value diversity, local spirit, and always having something happening just beyond your doorstep, Davis Square is easy to call home.