Peabody, Cambridge,MA

If you’re considering a move to Cambridge, MA, the Peabody neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a charming and vibrant community atmosphere that’s perfect for families, young professionals, and students alike. Known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes, Peabody combines the quaint feel of a close-knit neighborhood with convenient access to modern amenities. Residents often enjoy visiting the Peabody Playground, a local favorite spot for outdoor gatherings and family fun, which features updated play structures and plenty of green space. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts a variety of cozy cafes and boutique shops that give it a welcoming, small-town vibe right within the bustling Cambridge area.

One of the standout attractions near Peabody is the beautiful Fresh Pond Reservation, located just a short distance away in the northwest part of Cambridge. This scenic area offers walking and biking trails around the pond, a great place to unwind and connect with nature. For those who appreciate cultural experiences, the Cambridge Public Library’s main branch isn’t far, and it often hosts events, workshops, and exhibits that bring the community together. Plus, with a number of local eateries serving everything from casual bites to international cuisine, Peabody residents have plenty of dining options to explore without needing to venture far.

Getting to Downtown Cambridge from Peabody is a breeze, making it an ideal location for commuters and city explorers alike. Just a short drive or bus ride away, you can easily reach the heart of Cambridge’s bustling commercial and tech hubs, including Kendall Square and Harvard Square. This proximity means you get the best of both worlds — a peaceful neighborhood feel with quick access to vibrant city life. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends, or exploring museums and shops, Peabody’s location offers a perfect balance of tranquility and convenience that makes settling in here truly enjoyable.

18% of the Peabody population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 18% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Peabody demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 11,567, the number of residents who reside in Peabody is about average in size compared to other Cambridge neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 17,032, Peabody is more densely populated than many other Cambridge neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Peabody crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Peabody, home prices come in around $1,188,488, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Peabody can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,641, rental rates in Peabody are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Peabody. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Peabody offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.