North Cambridge Real Estate
North Cambridge, or “Area 11," is a neighborhood located at the northernmost part of the city bordering Somerville, Arlington, and Belmont. Massachusetts Avenue is the main corridor running through the community, extending from Porter Square to the Arlington border and offering a number of ethnic food and local eateries. North Cambridge can be divided into two sections: a busy dense area off Cedar and Massachusetts; and the western section which is full of green spaces, bike paths, and recreational fields. Russell and Comeau Fields are popular with residents looking for a scenic run or a breath of fresh air. Notably, North Cambridge is one of the few Cambridge neighborhoods offering relatively affordable housing options. Its approximately 11,000 residents live in single-family and multi-family residences as well as high rise condos and apartments. Easy access to public transit and Cambridge’s excellent school system are draws for young families and working professionals. Read more about North Cambridge real estate.
North Cambridge Homes & Condos For Sale
More About North Cambridge Real Estate
North Cambridge Location
North Cambridge is bounded by the city of Somerville on the northeast; Alewife Brook and the town of Arlington on the northwest; by Porter Square and the Fitchburg Line railroad tracks on the south; and by the town of Belmont on the west. The neighborhood is served by the MBTA Alewife Red Line Station as well as stops within walking distance at Davis and Porter Squares.
North Cambridge History
When the colonists arrived, they attempted to farm the area in 1630 but the marshland was too high in salt content. Instead the colonists turned to the clay naturally occurring in the soil, using it for small-scale building and pottery. During the Industrial Revolution in the 1840s, the area fueled the demand for non-flammable building material with clay pits and brickyards dominating the area. The brick industry flourished in North Cambridge for little over a century. As the railroad arrived, the area evolved into a cattle-trading center and commuter suburb and it wasn’t until the early 1900s that the streets and houses began to rise.
North Cambridge is also known as a neighborhood with a wide range of ethnic diversity. Historically the area has been a stronghold for generations of French Canadians, Irish, and Italian families. More recently, immigrants from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Central America have brought their own culture and influence to the community.
