Somerville

OVERVIEW OF SOMERVILLE, MA

A quick look at Somerville’s history

• With its location around three miles north of Boston, Somerville was a strategic point during the American Revolution. It was located along the route of the famous midnight ride which took Paul Revere from Boston to Lexington and Concord after the British invasion in 1775.

• Somerville is home to some of Massachusetts’ most distinct ruins, including the Powder House, a historic stone building used for storing gunpowder during the Revolutionary War.

• Somerville was settled by Europeans in 1630 and was originally part of Charlestown. At the time, the area was mostly rural, contrasting rapidly urbanizing Charlestown. The community eventually separated from Charlestown and officially became a town in 1842.

• After gaining independence from Charlestown, Somerville experienced continuous progress. Improvements in the area’s transportation infrastructure paved the way for new industries like quarrying, brickmaking, and dairy farming.

• As its economy thrived, Somerville’s population increased significantly between 1842 and 1870, reaching over 14,600.

• Somerville’s brick manufacturing industry flourished with the township producing more than 1.3 million bricks each year, which soon increased to 5.5 million a year. The success of its brickyards attracted other industries. Packaging plants, meat processing plants, and factories producing steam engines, household appliances, and other items soon populated the area.

• Somerville was officially incorporated as a city in 1872. The new Lexington and Arlington Railroad combined with improvements to existing transportation lines aided its population growth.

Somerville is located about three miles northwest of Boston and less than two miles north of Cambridge. The city is part of Middlesex County and encompasses approximately 4.2 square miles.

Nestled on the west bank of the Mystic River, Somerville is currently home to a population of over 81,000, which makes it one of the most populated municipalities in New England.

Climate

Somerville experiences a humid continental climate characterized by hot summers and a lack of a dry season. Weather conditions vary significantly from month to month throughout each year. The most notable variations affect temperature and rainfall.

Average low temperatures in Somerville range from 22°F in January and can increase to around 65°F in July. Average high temperatures hover around 35°F in January and go as high as 81°F in July. These significant variations in temperature result in multiple weather patterns that differ every season.

Somerville experiences a moderate amount of rainfall and snowfall annually. The city tends to get the highest level of rainfall in November, with averages reaching 0.55″. It typically gets the most snow in December, with an average of 0.71″.

Transportation

As it was originally developed as a streetcar suburb of Boston, Somerville has a layout and framework well-suited for public transportation. Its neighborhoods are arranged along a grid-like arrangement and connected by a walkable and transit-friendly system.

The city is served by the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority (MBTA) and has seven subway stations connected to the Green, Red, and Orange rapid transit lines.

Education

Somerville is home to Tufts University, a renowned private research university with a global reputation for academic excellence.

Public schools in Somerville are administered by Somerville Public Schools (SPS), one of the top urban public school districts in Massachusetts. The district operates ten schools from prekindergarten through grade 12, serving a diverse population of over 5,000 students.

Some of the top-ranked public schools in Somerville include:

• Albert F. Argenziano School
• Benjamin G. Brown School
• John F. Kennedy Elementary School
• Somerville High School

For families looking for private education, several excellent private schools are located in and around Somerville, including:

• St. Theresa School
• Buckingham Browne & Nichols School
• Commonwealth School
• International School of Boston

HOMES FOR SALE IN SOMERVILLE, MA

Those interested in homes for sale in Somerville, MA will find a broad range of real estate options that can suit any type of lifestyle. Somerville’s real estate market consists of a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and condos, all available in a variety of sizes, styles, and prices. Vacant lots and land are available as well for those planning to build a custom home.

Prospective home buyers in Somerville will be able to choose from an array of architectural styles like Victorian, French Colonial, and Craftsman, together with an assortment of contemporary styles. Many residences provide a perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and livability, contributing to an outstanding quality of life in one of the most desirable communities in the New England region.

Enhancing the overall appeal of many homes are first-rate features such as inviting interiors filled with natural light, hardwood floors throughout, stylish kitchens with chef-grade appliances, elegant living and dining rooms, spa-like baths with top-quality fixtures, and generously sized bedrooms.

If you’re in the market for a condo, many condos in Somerville combine modern comforts with all the conveniences of city living. You can find a superb selection of condos ranging from comfortable studio units and newly renovated bi-level condos to exquisite penthouse lofts highlighted by panoramic views of the Boston skyline.

One of the best things about owning a home in Somerville is having easy access to a plethora of attractions and amenities. No matter where you’re located, you’re always minutes away from parks, gourmet food shops, farmer’s markets, restaurants, live music venues, transit stations, and all of the top-rated destinations the city has to offer.

Ready to browse some of the finest homes for sale in Somerville, MA? Visit this page to take a look at our listings.

Popular neighborhoods in Somerville

Those relocating to Somerville are spoiled for choice when it comes to location, as the city boasts a terrific selection of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and character.

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil environment, the lively atmosphere of a bustling commercial square, or a little bit of both, it’s easy to find a community that accommodates your preferences.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Somerville:

• Davis Square. One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Somerville, Davis Square is a hub of activity widely known for its eclectic mix of hip eateries, independent boutiques, sleek bars, and cultural destinations like the Somerville Theatre. Real estate options in Davis Square include condos, townhomes, loft apartments, and single-family homes.
• Union Square. Nestled in the southeastern section of Somerville, Union Square is a neighborhood with a festive atmosphere and a dazzling assortment of restaurants, bars, breweries, and specialty stores. Many exquisite residences can be found in Union Square including multi-family and single-family homes, townhouses, lofts, and condos. One of the most desirable spots in the neighborhood is Prospect Hill, which features stately Victorians, many overlooking views of Prospect Hill Park.
• Winter Hill. This charming neighborhood boasts scenic tree-lined streets, lush parks, beautiful historic homes, and quick access to everyday conveniences like schools, grocery stores, and restaurants. Once home to many workers and their families during Somerville’s industrial past, Winter Hill now maintains a more residential atmosphere compared to other neighborhoods, making it an ideal place to live for families.
• Spring Hill. Located in the central part of Somerville, Spring Hill is a neighborhood with a rich historic charm, relaxed atmosphere, and picturesque small-town setting. Prospective home buyers will be able to find a great selection of lovely Victorians and Greek Revival homes, many equipped with top-quality features designed for modern living.
• Ten Hills. Within Somerville’s northeastern section is the neighborhood of Ten Hills, named after the Ten Hills Farm owned by John Winthrop, one of the founding fathers of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Set along the Mystic River, the neighborhood is a popular choice for families, thanks to its proximity to highly rated schools, parks, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions.

NOTABLE ATTRACTIONS IN SOMERVILLE

Historic destinations

Old Powder House
Powderhouse Path, Somerville, MA

Standing more than 30 feet atop Quarry Hill, Somerville’s Old Powder House is the oldest stone building in Massachusetts as well as one of the city’s most renowned historical destinations.

Built in 1703 or 1704 by Jean Mallet, a French shipbuilder, the structure was originally designed as a windmill for the Mallet farm. After the Mallet family sold the property to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1747, the building was converted into a gunpowder storage facility.

The Powder House played a key role during some of the most pivotal events that led up to the American Revolution. In 1774, General Thomas Gage led British troops along Broadway, where they seized 250 barrels of gunpowder stored at the former Mallet farm.

Visit this page to find out how to join docent-led tours of Old Powder House.

Prospect Hill Monument

Prospect Hill played a pivotal role in defending Charlestown due to its proximity to Boston. In 1777, Prospect Hill’s barracks served as a temporary prison for prisoners of war captured following the surrender of General John Burgoyne in Saratoga, New York. In the 1860s, the land was used as a campsite and training field by Civil War Regiments.

The land was subdivided into residential lots as Somerville’s population increased. By 1900, a committee was tasked by the city to construct a monument to commemorate the events that took place on the hill during the 1770s. The monument was made of granite and was built in the style of an English castle. The monument and the park that surrounded it were opened to the public in 1903.

The Grand Union Flag is atop Prospect Hill every January 1st, a tradition started by General George Washington in 1776.

Arts and culture venues

Somerville Theatre
55 Davis Square, Somerville, MA

Opened in 1914, the Somerville Theatre is an independent theater and live performance venue that has hosted prominent musicians and artists throughout its history, including the likes of Maya Angelou, U2, Hunter S. Thompson, Leonard Nimoy, Bruce Springsteen, and Adele.

The theater is home to the Independent Film Festival of Boston, an annual weeklong festival highlighted by film screenings, panel discussions, and special guest appearances.

Somerville Museum
One Westwood Road, Somerville, MA

Open for more than a century, the Somerville Museum is an award-winning community-based cultural institution that has played a central role both in preserving the city’s past and shaping its future.

Every year, the museum engages members of the community with its wide range of programs including special exhibits, talks with educators and local artists, workshops, and more.

The Museum of Modern Renaissance
115 College Ave., Somerville, MA

Located along College Avenue, the Museum of Modern Renaissance is a former masonic lodge redesigned by artists Ekatrina Sorokina and Nicholas Shaplyko. The two Russian artists imagined the building as a “Temple of Art,” filling it with their artworks.

It’s hard to miss the brightly colored building amongst the houses nearby, with its majestic façade adorned with Incan artworks and massive stone sculpture leering from above the doorway. The highlight of the museum is the Grand Hall sitting atop two painted staircases. The walls and vaulted ceiling are covered by intricate paintings that feature the artists’ interpretation of myths, legends, and fables from different cultures. There are 57 murals covering more than 5,200 square feet within the Grand Hall.

Check the Museum of Modern Renaissance’s Facebook page for information on guided tours and events.

FIND THE PERFECT HOME IN SOMERVILLE TODAY WITH THE STEVE BREMIS REALTY GROUP

To find the best selection of homes for sale in Somerville, MA, work with me, Stephen Bremis, one of the top-producing agents in the area. Together with my elite team of award-winning agents, you’ll be able to make well-informed decisions, navigate the market with ease, and realize your real estate goals.

Get in touch with us today by calling 617.828.1070 or leaving a message. We’d love to hear from you.