Finding the right place to live off campus is one of the biggest decisions many Tufts students make each year, and the options stretch far beyond the university’s gates. US News estimates that 40% of students live in Tufts University off-campus housing, which means the surrounding rental markets are very active and competitive.
From the great streets of Davis Square in Somerville to the serene residential blocks of Medford, students have a wide range of neighborhoods that balance convenience, affordability, and local character. Each area offers its own mix of coffee shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks, creating an exciting housing landscape that caters to different lifestyles while keeping campus within easy reach.
Most Favored Neighborhoods
The most popular neighborhoods for Tufts off campus housing are Somerville – Tufts, Medford – Tufts and Davis Square. These are the closest residential hubs in proximity for Tufts students, largely within a 3-mile radius of campus. It’s not that difficult to understand – a ton of students want to be able to quickly reach their classes with the least hassle possible. Many Tufts students do not have a car so commuting in cold weather can be a challenge.
Tufts University main campus is situated right on the border between Medford and Somerville, with parts of campus falling on both neighborhoods. So it should come as no surprise that these two areas remain the central focus for off-campus living. Most students stay within these neighborhoods, but some choose to commute from further out. A lot has to do with free market forces and choices, generally speaking- the prices of rent tend to fall the further you get from campus. Think of it as when you go to a concert – front row tickets cost a lot more than when high up in the stadium seating.
Other neighborhoods that are sometimes considered include Malden, Cambridge and Everett depending on preferences for affordability, access, and…