Moving to Cambridge? Find Helpful Resources.

Welcome to Cambridge!

The City of Cambridge is located in southeast Middlesex County across the Charles River from the City of Boston and occupies a land area of 6.43 square miles. Cambridge is bordered by the Towns of Watertown and Belmont on the west and the Town of Arlington and the City of Somerville on the north. The 2020 U.S. Census reported 118,403 residents in Cambridge.

Cambridge is widely known as the University City. Harvard, America's oldest university, was established here in 1636, six years after the City itself was settled. It is also home to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Lesley University, and the Hult International School of Business. More than one-fifth of residents are students, and approximately one in six of all jobs are at these institutions. Yet Cambridge is more than a university city, it features high-tech workers and professionals, political activists, street musicians, and immigrants from around the world.

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First, where are you living?

For Applicants (Affordable Housing rental/homeownership, Middle Income Rental)

There are pages of information on this website, including program guidelines, application forms, FAQs, contact names, and more.

For Homebuyers

The City has many programs to assist potential homebuyers through every step of the process.

For Homeowners

There are many programs and services available to support homeowners in Cambridge.

For Renters

There are many resources available for tenants in affordable and market-rate housing in the city.

Permits to consider while moving:

Moving Container or Crate Permit

A Moving Container/Crate Permit allows you to reserve curb space for the purpose of placing a crate or container on a City street while moving goods in or out of a building.

Moving Van Permit

A Moving Van Permit allows you to reserve curb space for the purpose of parking a vehicle on a City street while moving goods in or out of a building.

Resident Parking Permit

You need a permit to park in areas of Cambridge designated “Parking by Permit Only.” Residents may apply for Resident Parking Permits for passenger vehicles and motorcycles, and/or Visitor Parking Permits, which may only be used by visitors. Residents must renew their parking permits each year.

Temporary Parking Permit

A Temporary Parking Permit is for cars that are rented, borrowed, and or new residents who need time to transfer their registration information to Cambridge. Lasts one to two weeks.

Non-Resident Parking Permit

Non-Resident Parking Permits are available in limited circumstances to people who provide services to residents and property owners.

Do any services come with your home?

Trash and Recycling

The City provides weekly curbside pickup of household trash, recycling, and compost. Recycling is mandatory in Cambridge.

Sewage Removal

An applicant may apply for an abatement of sewer charge if water supplied, derived or received is used in manner that does not enter the wastewater system of the city.

Service Requests

Commonwealth Connect (powered by SeeClickFix) helps residents reach the City online or via their smartphone to request services or get help fixing issues. Categories include trash/recycling, streets, trees, sidewalks, parks, lights/signage, seasonal, and more.

Gas Permits

Submit when applying for a Gas Permit in the City of Cambridge.

Street Cleaning

Look up the schedule for street cleaning where you live. You can also sign up for notifications!

Water Department Services

The Cambridge Water Department offers many services for residential and commercial customers as well as contractors and educators.

How do you get around in Cambridge?

Traveling by Foot

There are a number of elements to a walking environment that is both safe and inviting. Here are some key links to City policies and resources about walking in Cambridge.

Traveling by Bike

In order to support bicycling, the City is working to further enhance the bicycle facility network, add bicycle parking, promote bicycling events, contribute to bicycle training for both children and adults, and add bike share as an option for residents, visitors, and workers.

Traveling by Transit

The city depends on having high-quality transit options, so learn more about the MBTA, buses, and Charlie Cards / fares.

Traveling by Car

If you plan to drive to and around Cambridge, this information will make your trip easier. Learn about owning a car, where to park, safety, electric charging, and more.

Local Resources

Find It Cambridge - Opportunities for people who live, work, and play in Cambridge

Library Hours and Locations

School Hours and Locations

Post Office Hours and Locations

Hospital Hours and Location

Police Hours, Location, and More

Fire Department Hours, Location, and More

City Hall Location and Hours

Park Locations and Guide

Additional Resources

City of Cambridge Website

Maps of the City and Departments

City Council Meetings

City Calendar

Election Commission

Job with the City

Resources for New Immigrants in Cambridge

Recreational Programs

Applying for a Dog License

Subscription for City Alerts and Newsletters

Farmers’ Markets

Community Gardens

Guide to Waste Collection

Pay or View Bills