Boston is filled with rich history, tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and majestic views of the Charles River. The green spaces and vast architectural styles throughout Boston only add to the New England charm of the city and its many neighborhoods. If moving to Boston sounds like the right thing for you, the average rent is $3,450 while the median home sale price is $775,000.
If you’re trying to decide where to live in Boston, you might be having a hard time. Countless neighborhoods form the city – each with a distinct charm and flair. To help you find the perfect Boston neighborhood to call home, here’s a guide covering some of the most popular ones. Let’s get started.
Boston housing
Before we jump into the neighborhoods, let’s discuss the housing options you’ll come across while searching for the perfect Boston neighborhood. From traditional New England-style houses to modern apartments, you’ll find various homes in Boston. You’ll also see countless historic homes in the city, such as Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian houses, many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Newer neighborhoods have a mix of Cape Cod, ranch, and split-level homes.
There are many types of apartments in Boston, from high-rise luxury apartments to more traditional units. Boston also has many unique and historic apartment buildings, such as the Brownstone apartments on Commonwealth Avenue. Now that we’ve covered the types of homes and apartments you’ll encounter, let’s get into the neighborhoods themselves.
1. Allston
Allston is located east of Downtown Boston and is home to several Harvard University buildings and athletic facilities. In the area, you can find Harvard Stadium and Jordan Field, making it easy to watch a Harvard game. Allston also has plenty of concert venues and nightlife options like Agganis Arena, Brighton Music Hall, and Roadrunner.
This neighborhood has an awesome food scene as well, whether you’re looking for authentic Chinese food, Turkish cuisine, Burmese fare, or top-rated bakeries. If you’re looking for green spaces in the Allston area, you’ll have plenty of options like the waterfront Christian Herter Park or the quaint Ringer Park. Finally, Allston is a great area if you don’t have a car, as it has a Walk Score of 87 and a Bike Score of 92.
Median Sale Price: $640,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $4,540 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,963
Homes for sale in Allston | Apartments for rent in Allston
2. Back Bay
Back Bay is one of Boston’s most recognizable neighborhoods – a historical area known for its Victorian brownstone houses and tree-lined streets. This neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and popular tourist attractions. For example, you can check out the famous Newbury Street filled with spots like Joe’s on Newbury, Saltie Girl, and Amorino Gelato.
You can also find some of Boston’s most iconic landmarks, including the Prudential Center, the Hatch Memorial Shell, Trinity Church, and Copley Square. With green spaces like the Charles River Esplanade, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, and Boston Common, there’s always something to do outdoors in this neighborhood. Back Bay is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Boston, with a Walk Score of 97.
Median Sale Price: $1,250,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $4,047 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $5,291
Homes for sale in Back Bay | Apartments for rent in Back Bay
3. Bay Village
Bay Village is a small neighborhood composed mostly of residential buildings, with some local businesses and restaurants. It’s conveniently located near Back Bay, the Theatre District, and the South End, making it the 4th most walkable neighborhood in Boston, with a Walk Score of 98. The public transportation is also excellent, with a Transit Score of 100.
In Bay Village, you can find landmarks like The Saunders Castle at Park Plaza, local restaurants, and charming hotels. The area is known for its picturesque streets filled with brick row houses, tree-lined sidewalks, and historic buildings, including the Bay Village Historic District.
Median Sale Price: $1,137,500
Homes for sale in Bay Village | Apartments for rent in Bay Village
4. Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, gas lanterns, and Federal architecture. This area is home to the State House, which is the seat of government for the state of Massachusetts, and museums like the Museum of African American History, the Freedom Trail, and the Nichols House Museum. Beacon Hill has a wide range of attractions like Boston Common, pubs dating back to the 1800s, Italian restaurants, and the Public Garden. Beacon Hill is an excellent area to live in Boston if you don’t have a car, as it’s the most walkable neighborhood in the city, with a Walk Score of 99.
Median Sale Price: $1,402,500
Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,600
Homes for sale in Beacon Hill | Apartments for rent in Beacon Hill
5. Brighton
Located just east of Allston, Brighton is a former town-turned neighborhood in Boston. The area is known for its great mix of residential and commercial areas. From the bustling shops and restaurants of Brighton Center to the quiet tree-lined streets of Oak Square, there’s something for everyone in Brighton. The community is also home to countless parks and green spaces, like Chestnut Hill Reservation, Daly Field, Chandler Pond, and the Dr. Paul Dudley White Bike Path. Brighton is a great place to call home if you’re looking for a more suburban feel in Boston, but also want easy access to the city’s popular attractions.
Median Sale Price: $609,000
Homes for sale in Brighton | Apartments for rent in Brighton
6. Charlestown
Charlestown is one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods. Located along the waterfront, this neighborhood is home to many storied landmarks, including the Bunker Hill Monument, the Boston National Historical Park, and the USS Constitution Museum. It’s a historic neighborhood, with many 18th and 19th-century buildings still standing – many of which are currently used as restaurants, shops, and apartments. Some popular places to visit include the Warren Tavern, Pier 6, and Tatte Bakery & Cafe. Charlestown has plenty of green spaces as well, like Paul Revere Park, City Square Park, Menino Park, and Barry Field.
Median Sale Price: $1,100,000
Homes for sale in Charlestown | Apartments for rent in Charlestown
7. Commonwealth
Commonwealth is another historic neighborhood that’s home to many of the city’s most important landmarks, such as the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum and Chestnut Hill Reservoir. With Boston College to the west, shops and restaurants along Commonwealth Avenue, and Brighton Avenue at the north end, there’s plenty to explore in this neighborhood. The area is also home to numerous businesses and restaurants like cafés, bars, pizzerias, and bakeries, like Clear Flour Bread, Tasca Restaurant, and Hopewell Bar & Kitchen. With plenty of apartments for rent and homes for sale, Commonwealth is a great neighborhood to consider living in Boston.
Median Sale Price: $520,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,350 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,900
Homes for sale in Commonwealth | Apartments for rent in Commonwealth
8. Dorchester
Dorchester is Boston’s largest neighborhood and used to be a city until 1870. There are a wide range of landmarks in the area like UMass Boston, home to the Commonwealth Museum and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, waterfront restaurants, and the bustling Dorchester Avenue where you’ll find local restaurants and shops.
The area is home to a number of different parks and recreation areas, like Pope John Paul II Park, Dorchester Shores Reservation, and Malibu Beach, making it a great place to live for those who enjoy the outdoors.
Median Sale Price: $647,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,775 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,612
Homes for sale in Dorchester | Apartments for rent in Dorchester
9. Downtown Boston
Downtown is the central business district of Boston and is also popular with tourists with its array of landmarks. It’s home to renowned attractions such as Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, and the New England Aquarium. Historic landmarks dot the streets like the Old State House, the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Boston’s Old City Hall, and the Old South Meeting House.
From opera houses, Irish pubs, historic buildings, and farmers’ markets, there’s something new around every corner. Downtown is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Boston, with a Walk Score of 98. Downtown is also great for public transit – there are about 21 buses, two subways, and two light rail lines.
Median Sale Price: $1,620,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,809 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $5,051
Homes for sale in Downtown Boston | Apartments for rent in Downtown Boston
10. East Boston
East Boston, often called “Eastie,” is located across Boston Harbor from the city’s downtown. The neighborhood is home to Logan International Airport, as well as plenty of waterfront parks and beaches, like Piers Park, Orient Heights Beach, Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, and Constitution Beach. You can also find spots like The Stage at Suffolk Downs, a popular concert venue, local taverns and breweries, and a variety of restaurants like Peruvian, Mexican, Italian, and seafood. East Boston offers residents a great mix of outdoor activities, waterfront views, and Boston’s vibe, without being directly near Downtown.
Median Sale Price: $689,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $4,436 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $6,744
Homes for sale in East Boston | Apartments for rent in East Boston
11. Fenway-Kenmore
Fenway-Kenmore consists of the areas around Fenway Park and Kenmore Square. The neighborhood is most well-known as the home of Fenway Park, hosting the Boston Red Sox. It also encompasses landmarks such as Kenmore Square, a bustling plaza, the Boston University campus, Northeastern University, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Fenway-Kenmore has plenty of green spaces including Back Bay Fens and The Fenway Garden Society.
There are also various nightlife options in the neighborhood like the MGM Music Hall at Fenway, Citizens House of Blues Boston, and Symphony Hall. Fenway-Kenmore is one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Boston, with a Walk Score of 95. The neighborhood also has great public transportation and is a good area for bikers, with a Transit Score of 93 and a Bike Score of 91.
Median Sale Price: $1,120,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,932 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $5,137
Homes for sale in Fenway-Kenmore | Apartments for rent in Fenway-Kenmore
12. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is located in the southernmost part of the city and is named after Hyde Park in London. The neighborhood is home to many parks, and green spaces, like Mill Pond Reservation, and is close to the Neponset River. Along the Neponset River, you can find countless trails perfect for running, hiking, biking, and walking, or you can try kayaking on the river. Hyde Park mixes residential and commercial areas, making it a great place to call home if you’re looking to be out of Boston’s bustling downtown.
Median Sale Price: $650,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,400 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,995
Homes for sale in Hyde Park | Apartments for rent in Hyde Park
13. Jamaica Plain
Jamaica Plain is known for its lively arts scene, diverse restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. For example, the neighborhood is home to plenty of local restaurants, bars, venues like Midway Café, and historic homes like the Loring Greenough House. The area has several parks, including the Arnold Arboretum, which features walking paths, Peters Hill which overlooks the city, a rhododendron garden, and the Boston Nature Center. There are plenty of subway lines that stop in the neighborhood, making it easy to get to the heart of the city.
Median Sale Price: $775,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,759 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,943
Homes for sale in Jamaica Plain | Apartments for rent in Jamaica Plain
14. North End
North End is one of the most historic and iconic neighborhoods in Boston. It’s a densely populated area with a mix of residential and commercial buildings, often called “Boston’s Little Italy.” North End is also home to various iconic landmarks, including the Freedom Trail, the Paul Revere House, and the Old North Church.
The neighborhood is known for its excellent restaurants and cafés, like Mike’s Pastry, Boston Sail Loft, and Regina Pizzeria. So, make sure to grab a slice of pizza, a cannoli, or a sub at one of the local favorites. North End is another neighborhood that’s great for those without a car. The area is the 3rd most walkable neighborhood in Boston with a Walk Score of 99. It also has great public transportation with a Transit Score of 99.
Median Sale Price: $955,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,450 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $4,400
Homes for sale in North End | Apartments for rent in North End
15. Roxbury
Roxbury is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian homes and architecture, as well as its many churches and parks. One of the top attractions in the neighborhood is Franklin Park Zoo, located in the expansive Franklin Park. In the park you’ll find more than the zoo, including a golf course, trails, arboretum, pond, and picnic grove. You can also find historic spots like the Shirley-Eustis House, Malcolm X Park, the Fort Hill Tower – Cochituate Standpipe, and the Frederick Douglass Square Historic District in the Roxbury neighborhood. If you’re looking for lots of history mixed with green spaces, consider Roxbury.
Median Sale Price: $608,950
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,895 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,650
Homes for sale in Roxbury | Apartments for rent in Roxbury
16. Seaport District
The Seaport District, also called the South Boston Waterfront, is located along the city’s waterfront and has many businesses, waterfront restaurants, and several residential buildings. The Boston Convention and Exhibition Center attracts residents and visitors throughout the year, while museums like the Boston Children’s Museum and the Institute of Contemporary Art make it a hub for education. The neighborhood is also home to many parks and public spaces, including the Fan Pier Park, South Boston Maritime Park, and Seaport Common. You can also catch a concert at Leader Bank Pavillion or grab a meal at one of the acclaimed restaurants and bakeries.
Median Sale Price: $1,637,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $4,804 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $6,921
Homes for sale in Roxbury | Apartments for rent in Roxbury
17. Shawmut
Shawmut is named for Shawmut Peninsula, the original site of Boston. Today, the area is known for its unique architecture, its vibrant culture, and proximity to Northeastern University. You’ll also find a great collection of restaurants, ranging from pizzerias and Puerto Rican cuisine to delis and French bistros. The area is conveniently located near popular neighborhoods like Back Bay, South End, and Downtown, meaning there’s always something going on nearby.
Median Sale Price: $1,455,000
Homes for sale in Shawmut | Apartments for rent in Shawmut
18. South Boston
South Boston, nicknamed “Southie,” is located along the waterfront. The neighborhood is also home to many waterfront parks and beaches like Moakley Park, Carson Beach, Castle Island, and M Street Beach. You can also find a variety of historic landmarks like Fort Independence, Medal of Honor Park, and the Pleasure Bay Flag Pole. South Boston has a wide variety of restaurants, taverns, and bakeries, so there’s always a new hidden gem to try.
Median Sale Price: $900,000
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $2,937 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $3,447
Homes for sale in South Boston | Apartments for rent in South Boston
19. South End
South End is known for its Victorian row house architecture and the many art galleries, restaurants, and nightlife venues along South End’s main streets. It’s a very artistic community, and you can check out some local artisans at the SoWa Open Market, which takes place on Sundays from May through October. You can also find iconic spots like the SoWa Power Station, Wally’s Cafe Jazz Club, and Peters Park. This neighborhood has a wide range of restaurants and bakeries ranging from French, Turkish, Chinese, and Puerto Rican.
Median Sale Price: $1,195,500
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $3,929 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $5,152
Homes for sale in South End | Apartments for rent in South End
20. West End
West End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston, with a history dating back to colonial times. Some of the iconic spots in the area include the Otis House Museum, Charles St, and the Museum of Science. You’ll find a vibrant nightlife scene like TD Garden and City Winery Boston, and some of the best restaurants in the city located in this charming neighborhood. West End is one of the most walkable areas in Boston, with a Walk Score of 97. The neighborhood also has superb public transportation, with a Transit Score of 100, making it a great choice for anyone living in the city without a car.
Median Sale Price: $429,750
Average Rent 1-Bedroom Apartment: $4,055 | Average Rent 2-Bedroom Apartment: $5,840
Homes for sale in West End | Apartments for rent in West End
Methodology: All neighborhoods must be listed as a “neighborhood” on Redfin.com. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during November 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com during November 2024. Walk Score, Bike Score, and Transit Score from Walkscore.com during November 2024.
