Somerville is generally safe . Though it is a city near a major city and as such crime does happen but it is a rapidly gentrifying area and it is not at all comparable with high crime areas like Mattapan and Roxbury . The culture of Somerville is really what makes the city unique . Like Austin TX , Somerville keeps it weird with HONK , a Fluff festival , a Museum of Bad Art , and much more . But , unfortunately , Somerville ' s desirability on the rental market is growing and the rent is getting too damn high which is forcing out some of the people that made the community what it is . Somerville is a city of squares . Davis is really the main hub however Union , Magoon , Teale and Porter Squares all have their own charms . I would recommend catching a movie at the Somerville Theatre , and dinner at Rosebud , Salon , Painted Burro or Five Horses . BreakfastBrunch at Kelly ' s . Sandwiches at Mike ' s Fresh Pasta . Pizza at Leone ' s . Drinks at the Independent or Brass Union . I ' ve lived in a few different areas but my favorite has been Spring Hill . It was a bit quieter and definitely had a neighborly feel . I love Somerville and it is a wonderful place to live . If you ' re bringing a car make sure you brush up on the parking policy !