Living in Union Square [Somerville, MA

Written By Sage Jankowitz

Union Square is a rapidly growing neighborhood in Somerville. 

Types of people that enjoy living in the Union Square area

Union Square is the neighborhood for those who enjoy big changes and being within walking distance of all sorts of amazing bars and restaurants. It is also a great area for bike commuters, and has been a focal point for many cycling infrastructure and safety upgrades over the last several years.

History of the Union Square neighborhood 

Union Square was of strategic importance during the American Revolution, as Prospect Hill offered excellent views of Boston, Cambridge, and Charlestown. George Washington is said to have raised an American flag at a fortification there on Jan 1, 1776. Later, the area’s many small dairy farms led some to call it Milk Row. With the introduction of railways, Union Square became heavily industrial with a brickyard, glassmakers, and a slaughterhouse. Archibald Query was living in Union Square when he invented Marshmallow Fluff, selling it door to door out of his kitchen. More recently it became the home of Taza Chocolate and breweries like Aeronaut and Bantam Cider.

Average cost to rent or buy a home in Union Square

Union Square is a fairly expensive area of Somerville, with single family homes averaging $872k and a median rent of $2,700 a month.

What is the zip code of Union Square

The Union Square zip code is 02143.

Union Square construction and development

Union Square is currently undergoing some major redevelopment and is likely to see some enormous growth and change over the next several years. The most impactful is the introduction of a new subway stop as part of the Green Line Extension which is scheduled to open in late 2021. Additionally, there are plans for a number of high rises bringing new office, residential, and commercial space to the area. 

Union Square vs. Davis Square

Both areas of Somerville have their pros and cons.

Union Square Pros

Union Square Cons

  • Quickly becoming expensive

  • Currently hard to get to/from without a car

Davis Square Pros

Davis Square Cons

  • Its 6-point intersection can be confusing to navigate, especially with pedestrians

  • Minimal greenspace

Best places to shop in the Union Square neighborhood

Here are the best places to shop in Union Square:

Best places to eat in the Union Square neighborhood

Here are the best places to eat in Union Square:

Sage Jankowitz
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