Getting Around: Public Transportation in Boston, Cambridge & Somerville

Navigating Greater Boston: Your Guide to Public Transportation

Moving to a new city can be exciting, and one of the first things many people think about is how they'll get around. In the Greater Boston area, especially in cities like Somerville, Cambridge, and Boston, public transportation is a huge part of daily life. You can often live comfortably without owning a car, saving money and hassle!

The MBTA: Your Main Ride

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, or MBTA (locals call it "the T"), is the public transit system for the entire region. It includes subways, buses, commuter rail, and even ferries. Most people living in these areas rely on the T to get to work, school, or just to explore.

The Subway (The T)

The subway system is the backbone of getting around. It has several colored lines, each connecting different parts of the city and surrounding towns:

• Red Line: Connects Cambridge (including popular spots like Harvard Square and Central Square) to Downtown Boston, and extends south to Quincy and Braintree, and north into Somerville.
• Orange Line: Runs from Malden through Downtown Boston, connecting to Jamaica Plain and Forest Hills.
• Blue Line: Serves East Boston, Logan Airport, and runs through Downtown.
• Green Line: This line has multiple branches (B, C, D, E) and serves many neighborhoods. It's great for getting to Fenway Park, and connects Cambridge (via Lechmere in East Cambridge) to Boston and Brookline. The recent Green Line Extension has made it even easier to travel within Somerville and Medford.

Buses: Connecting Every Corner

MBTA buses fill in the gaps where the subway doesn't go. They run all over Somerville, Cambridge, and Boston, making it easy to reach local shops, schools, and homes. For example, in Boston, buses are crucial for getting around neighborhoods like Mattapan village / Lower Mills, connecting residents to Red Line stations and other key areas. Buses are also a great way to see more of the city as you travel!

Commuter Rail: For Longer Trips

If you live a bit further out or need to travel to other towns outside the immediate city, the Commuter Rail is a great option. It connects Boston's North and South Stations to many suburbs. While less common for daily trips within Somerville or Cambridge, it's very useful for those living in Boston real estate further from the subway lines, or for weekend getaways.

Why Public Transit is a Great Choice

• Save Money: You can save a lot by not paying for car payments, gas, insurance, and parking. Parking in Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville can be very expensive and hard to find!
• Less Stress: Avoid traffic jams and the frustration of finding parking. You can read, listen to music, or relax during your commute.
• Good for the Environment: Using public transportation helps reduce your carbon footprint.
• Stay Active: Walking to and from your bus stop or subway station is a great way to get some extra steps in each day!

Living the Car-Free Life in Greater Boston

Many residents in these vibrant cities choose to live car-free, and the excellent public transportation system makes it possible. Whether you're commuting to work, heading out for dinner in Cambridge, or exploring a new park, the T and bus system offers a reliable way to get where you need to go. When you're looking for your next home, consider how close it is to a subway station or a major bus route – it can make a big difference in your daily life!