Somerville

About Somerville

Somerville is a thriving city located just northwest of Boston, a repeat recipient of the All-America City Award. With a growing population and an area that spans just 4 square miles, Somerville is the most densely populated city in New England. The area was first settled as part of neighboring Charlestown in the mid-17th century and incorporated as an independent city in 1872. Interestingly, the city is also the invention site of Marshmallow Fluff, an iconic American treat.

Living in Somerville

One of the most diverse cities in the United States, Somerville also boasts one of the largest artist populations in the nation. The city also has many urban and suburban neighborhoods, several retail centers organized around city squares and countless festivals year-round. Somerville borders Cambridge and Medford, and with its straightforward public transit system, the city provides quick access to the rest of the Boston metro area.

With more than 80 historical sites throughout the city, opportunities to learn about the city's past are around every corner. You can also visit the Somerville Museum, which offers a variety of historical, artistic and cultural exhibits. Somerville's parks and recreation department maintains more than 60 parks, community gardens and sports fields, as well as supervised playgrounds during the summer months. City-sponsored activities include adult and youth sports, community theater and a senior citizens club.

Jobs in Somerville

Somerville has a thriving economy that supports a wide range of businesses, which in turn provide a variety of local jobs. Building maintenance services provider AMB Industries is the city's largest employer, followed closely by health care linen services manufacturer Angelica Corp., electrician J & S Electric Co. and health care provider Somerville Hospital. Grocery chains Market Basket and Super Stop & Shop, manufacturer Rogers Foam Corp., and health care provider Visiting Nurse Assisted Living also provide a number of jobs in varied roles.

The unemployment rate in Somerville is very low, far lower than the Boston average. This is a good sign if you're planning to join the city's job market.

Somerville Schools

Somerville Public Schools manages the public schools in the city. The district includes elementary, middle and high schools, along with an innovation school, an alternative learning campus and an early childhood center. The district also supports adult education, with the Somerville Center for Adult Learning Experiences and the Somerville Adult Evening School.

Part of Tufts University also lie within Somerville (though the university is officially listed as being in the neighboring city of Medford), which puts a top-quality college education within easy reach.

Resources for Moving to Somerville

As you prepare for your move to Somerville, the following resources will be helpful:

• Utilities: Somerville's main energy providers are EverSource and National Grid. The city manages its own water and sewer services.
• Garbage and Recycling: Trash and recyclables are collected on a regular basis.
• Transportation: The MBTA provides a variety of public transportation options in and around Somerville.
• Parking: You're required to purchase a residential parking permit for your personal vehicle, which must be renewed annually.
• Moving Day: The city allows you to reserve a spot for your moving van ahead of time, so you won't have to search for a parking space on moving day.

Somerville Housing

You can generally find the city's most affordable homes in the center of the city, especially along Summer Street and McGrath Highway. Larger, multi-family homes can be found near Davis Square, Spring Hill and Lincoln Park. Because Somerville is such a desirable place to live, home prices can be very expensive.