The Unique Context of Economic Mobility in The Port

2026 Economic Mobility Summit

Created for Guy McPerson

The Port is a neighborhood with high levels of commercial activity where most families live in multifamily housing. Today, more than 7,300 people live in the community.

During the last decade, the population in The Port grew by close to 900 people. However, the area has changed in other ways.

The Port has a higher rate of poverty than most other neighborhoods in Cambridge. Around 17% of residents live below the poverty line, which is about two times greater than the average for Middlesex County.

We can also observe how some of the indicators linked to future prosperity are currently performing.

Homeownership is low in The Port. Only 22% of homes are owner-occupied.

Housing growth during the last decade was positive in The Port. The number of local homes grew by 23%.

Long-term vacancy is very low in The Port. Just 1% of homes sit empty and off the market.

Self-employment rates are low in The Port. Around 4% of workers work for themselves.

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