Living in Arlington
Arlington offers a blend of small-town charm, strong schools, and easy access to Cambridge and Boston. With distinct neighborhoods, walkable centers, and abundant green space, it appeals to buyers and renters looking for community, livability, and long-term value—without giving up proximity to the city.
Below is a narrative look at Arlington’s main sections and what daily life feels like in each.
Porter Square
Porter Square is centered around Massachusetts Avenue, Upland Road, and Somerville Avenue, with surrounding residential streets including Oxford Street, Roseland Street, and portions of Linnaean Street.
East Cambridge
East Cambridge is generally bounded by the Charles River, Cambridge Street, and McGrath Highway, with well-known streets including Cambridge Street, First Street, Thorndike Street, and Otis Street.
North Cambridge
North Cambridge stretches north of Porter Square toward Arlington and Belmont, with key corridors including Massachusetts Avenue, Alewife Brook Parkway, and residential streets such as Rindge Avenue, Harvey Street, and Vassal Lane.
Cambridgeport
Cambridgeport is generally bounded by River Street, Massachusetts Avenue, and the Charles River, with key streets including Magazine Street, Brookline Street, Pearl Street, and parts of Putnam Avenue.
Mid-Cambridge
Mid-Cambridge is loosely bounded by Massachusetts Avenue, Prospect Street, Broadway, and parts of Harvard- and Inman-facing side streets. Notable residential streets include Dana Street, Follen Street, Hurlbut Street, and portions of Columbia and Norfolk Streets.
Harvard Square
Harvard Square generally centers around the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and JFK Street, extending outward along Brattle Street, Mount Auburn Street, Garden Street, and parts of Holyoke, Winthrop, and Plympton Streets. These streets form the core of the neighborhood and define much of its historic character.