East of England · England
Cambridge area guide
Population
149,352
ONS 2024
Avg. house price
£462,145
-4.2% /yr
Avg. rent (pcm)
£1,805
+2.0% /yr
Rental yield
4.7%
gross
Sources: ONS mid-2024 population, HM Land Registry / ONS house prices and ONS private rents.
About Cambridge
Cambridge is a city in the East of England, on the River Cam, around 50 miles north of London. It is the county town of Cambridgeshire and is world-renowned as the home of the University of Cambridge, one of the oldest universities in the world. The city has a long history dating back to Roman and Anglo-Saxon times, and its centre retains a largely medieval street pattern alongside handsome college buildings, churches and green spaces such as Parker's Piece and the Backs. Cambridge today combines this historic core with a modern reputation as a global centre for research, science and technology.
Schools & education
The University of Cambridge, founded in the 13th century, is made up of a federation of colleges, including well-known names such as King's College, Trinity College, St John's College and Corpus Christi College among many others, each with its own buildings, traditions and admissions. Anglia Ruskin University also has its main campus in the city, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Cambridge has numerous state and independent schools, along with sixth-form and further education provision, and the presence of the university supports a strong tradition of academic and scientific education throughout the area.
Transport & airports
Cambridge railway station offers frequent direct services to London King's Cross and London Liverpool Street, as well as connections to other parts of East Anglia and beyond; a second station, Cambridge North, serves the north of the city. The city sits near the A14 and M11, giving road access to London, the Midlands and the wider region. London Stansted Airport is the nearest major airport, roughly 30 miles away, with London Luton also within reach; London Heathrow and London Gatwick serve longer-haul and wider international routes. Within Cambridge itself, cycling is extremely popular thanks to the flat terrain and extensive cycle network, and the compact centre is largely walkable, with park-and-ride sites and bus services supporting those travelling in from surrounding areas.
Economy & jobs
Cambridge has a strong knowledge-based economy built around research, technology and life sciences, often referred to as the 'Cambridge cluster' or 'Silicon Fen'. The university itself is a major employer, alongside Addenbrooke's Hospital and the wider Cambridge Biomedical Campus, which hosts biomedical research and healthcare organisations. The city and surrounding area are home to numerous technology, software, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, many linked to university spin-outs and science parks such as Cambridge Science Park and the Babraham Research Campus. Tourism also contributes to the local economy, given the city's historic colleges, museums and visitor attractions.
Living in Cambridge
With a population of around 149,352, Cambridge is a relatively compact and youthful city, its demographic profile shaped significantly by its large student population alongside academics, researchers and professionals working in technology and science. The city offers a good range of museums, theatres, markets and green spaces, along with a busy calendar of cultural and academic events. Housing costs are high relative to national averages, with an average house price of around £462,145 and average monthly rents of about £1,805, reflecting strong demand linked to the university and the local economy. Cambridge tends to suit those working in academia, research or technology, as well as families and commuters valuing good rail links to London, though its popularity is reflected in a competitive and relatively expensive property market.
Cambridge FAQs
What is the population of Cambridge?
According to ONS mid-2024 estimates, Cambridge has a population of around 149,352.
What is the nearest major airport to Cambridge?
London Stansted Airport is the nearest major airport, around 30 miles from the city, with London Luton, Heathrow and Gatwick also accessible.
What is Cambridge's main university?
Cambridge is home to the University of Cambridge, a collegiate university made up of colleges such as King's, Trinity and St John's, as well as Anglia Ruskin University.
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This guide is provided for general information. Statistics are from official sources on the dates shown; other details are an overview and may change. Browse all UK city guides →