Top 20 Boston neighborhoods. The emoji-friendly guide 🏢🌉
Boston offers a diverse range of neighborhoods with unique personalities and attractions. From historic sites and green spaces to vibrant cultures and bustling city life, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. This guide provides an overview of the best 20 neighborhoods in Boston, covering several topics such as why to live there, the kind of people living there, attractions, famous landmarks, businesses, and median house pricing.
- Back Bay ποΈ
- Why live there: Back Bay is known for its beautiful Victorian brownstones, high-end shopping on Newbury Street, and proximity to the Charles River Esplanade.
- People: Back Bay is an affluent neighborhood with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Back Bay is home to the Boston Public Library, the Prudential Center, and the John Hancock Tower. It's also a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.
- Famous for: Victorian brownstones and high-end shopping.
- Businesses: Back Bay has a mix of high-end shops and restaurants, as well as some chain stores and small businesses.
- Median house pricing: $1.6 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,500. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,500.
- Public transportation: Back Bay has several T stops (Arlington, Copley, and Back Bay) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- South End π
- Why live there: South End is known for its lively arts scene, trendy restaurants, and historic brownstones.
- People: South End has a mix of young professionals, families, and artists.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its LGBTQ+ community and has a diverse population.
- Attractions: South End is home to many art galleries, restaurants, and the Boston Center for the Arts.
- Famous for: Historic brownstones and trendy restaurants.
- Businesses: South End has a mix of small businesses and trendy restaurants.
- Median house pricing: $1.2 million.
- Average price for studio: $1,900. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,400. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,200.
- Public transportation: South End has several T stops (Massachusetts Ave, Symphony, and Back Bay) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Beacon Hill ποΈ
- Why live there: Beacon Hill is known for its historic architecture, brick sidewalks, and proximity to the Boston Common and Public Garden.
- People: Beacon Hill is an affluent neighborhood with a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Beacon Hill is home to the Massachusetts State House and the Nichols House Museum. It's also a great place to take a walk and admire the historic architecture.
- Famous for: Historic architecture and proximity to Boston Common and Public Garden.
- Businesses: Beacon Hill has a mix of small businesses and chain stores.
- Median house pricing: $2.5 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,100. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,700. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,800.
- Public transportation: Beacon Hill has several T stops (Park Street, Charles/MGH, and Bowdoin) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Jamaica Plain π³
- Why live there: Jamaica Plain is known for its green spaces, community vibe, and diverse population.
- People: Jamaica Plain has a mix of young professionals, families, and artists.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large Hispanic population.
- Attractions: Jamaica Plain is home to the Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Pond, and the Sam Adams Brewery.
- Famous for: Green spaces and community vibe.
- Businesses: Jamaica Plain has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as a thriving farmers market.
- Median house pricing: $800,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,600. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,100. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,800.
- Public transportation: Jamaica Plain has several T stops (Jackson Square, Stony Brook, and Green Street) and is pedestrian-friendly. It's also a great neighborhood for pet owners, with many dog-friendly parks and businesses.
- North End π
- Why live there: North End is known for its Italian culture, historic architecture, and proximity to the waterfront.
- People: North End has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white and Italian-American, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: North End is home to the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, and many authentic Italian restaurants.
- Famous for: Italian culture and historic architecture.
- Businesses: North End is home to many Italian restaurants and specialty food shops, as well as some small businesses and shops.
- Median house pricing: $1.3 million.
- Average price for studio: $1,800. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,500. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,300.
- Public transportation: North End has several T stops (Haymarket and North Station) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Charlestown β
- Why live there: Charlestown is known for its historic sites, waterfront views, and small-town feel.
- People: Charlestown has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Charlestown is home to the Bunker Hill Monument, the USS Constitution Museum, and the Charlestown Navy Yard.
- Famous for: Historic sites and waterfront views.
- Businesses: Charlestown has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops.
- Median house pricing: $1.1 million.
- Average price for studio: $1,700. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,100.
- Public transportation: Charlestown has several T stops (Community College and Sullivan Square) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- South Boston ποΈ
- Why live there: South Boston is known for its beaches, Irish-American culture, and proximity to downtown.
- People: South Boston has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white and Irish-American, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: South Boston is home to several beaches, the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, and the South Boston Maritime Park.
- Famous for: Beaches and Irish-American culture.
- Businesses: South Boston has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $800,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,800. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,400. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,200.
- Public transportation: South Boston has several T stops (Broadway and Andrew) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Dorchester π
- Why live there: Dorchester is known for its diverse population, historic sites, and proximity to the waterfront.
- People: Dorchester has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large African-American population.
- Attractions: Dorchester is home to the JFK Presidential Library and Museum, the Franklin Park Zoo, and the Dorchester Waterfront.
- Famous for: Diverse population and historic sites.
- Businesses: Dorchester has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $650,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,800. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,400.
- Public transportation: Dorchester has several T stops (Fields Corner, Shawmut, and Savin Hill) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Fenway/Kenmore ποΈ
- Why live there: Fenway/Kenmore is known for its proximity to Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, as well as its lively bar and restaurant scene.
- People: Fenway/Kenmore has a mix of young professionals, students, and families.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Fenway/Kenmore is home to Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
- Famous for: Fenway Park and lively bar and restaurant scene.
- Businesses: Fenway/Kenmore has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $1 million.
- Average price for studio: $1,800. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,400. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,200.
- Public transportation: Fenway/Kenmore has several T stops (Fenway, Kenmore, and Symphony) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- East Boston π¬
- Why live there: East Boston is known for its diverse population, waterfront views, and proximity to Logan Airport.
- People: East Boston has a mix of young professionals, families, and immigrants.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large Hispanic population.
- Attractions: East Boston is home to the Piers Park, the East Boston Greenway, and the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area.
- Famous for: Waterfront views and proximity to Logan Airport.
- Businesses: East Boston has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $600,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,500. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,400.
- Public transportation: East Boston has several T stops (Maverick and Airport) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Roslindale π³
- Why live there: Roslindale is known for its green spaces, community vibe, and small-town feel.
- People: Roslindale has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large African-American population.
- Attractions: Roslindale is home to the Arnold Arboretum, the Roslindale Farmers Market, and the Roslindale Village Main Street.
- Famous for: Green spaces and community vibe.
- Businesses: Roslindale has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $650,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,800. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,400.
- Public transportation: Roslindale has several T stops (Forest Hills and Roslindale Village) and is pedestrian-friendly. It's also a great neighborhood for pet owners, with many dog-friendly parks and businesses.
- West Roxbury π²
- Why live there: West Roxbury is known for its green spaces, quiet streets, and suburban feel.
- People: West Roxbury has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: West Roxbury is home to the Millennium Park, the West Roxbury Farmers Market, and the Holy Name Parish.
- Famous for: Green spaces and quiet streets.
- Businesses: West Roxbury has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $700,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,500. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,900. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,400.
- Public transportation: West Roxbury has several T stops (Highland and West Roxbury) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Allston/Brighton π
- Why live there: Allston/Brighton is known for its lively student population, diverse dining options, and proximity to Harvard and Boston University.
- People: Allston/Brighton has a mix of young professionals, students, and families.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a large Asian population.
- Attractions: Allston/Brighton is home to the Harvard Stadium, the Brighton Music Hall, and many restaurants and bars.
- Famous for: Lively student population and diverse dining options.
- Businesses: Allston/Brighton has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $800,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,700. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,100. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,800.
- Public transportation: Allston/Brighton has several T stops (Harvard Ave, Packard's Corner, and Cleveland Circle) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Hyde Park ποΈ
- Why live there: Hyde Park is known for its green spaces, community vibe, and historic sites.
- People: Hyde Park has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large African-American population.
- Attractions: Hyde Park is home to the Stony Brook Reservation, the Fairmount Grille, and the Readville Historic District.
- Famous for: Green spaces and historic sites.
- Businesses: Hyde Park has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $600,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,300. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,700. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200.
- Public transportation: Hyde Park has several T stops (Fairmount and Hyde Park) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Mattapan π¨
- Why live there: Mattapan is known for its diverse population, community feel, and affordable housing.
- People: Mattapan has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large African-American population.
- Attractions: Mattapan is home to the Mattapan Square, the Mattapan Food and Fitness Coalition, and the Mattapan Branch of the Boston Public Library.
- Famous for: Diverse population and affordable housing.
- Businesses: Mattapan has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $450,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,200. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,500. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,000.
- Public transportation: Mattapan has several T stops (Mattapan and Ashmont) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Roxbury π
- Why live there: Roxbury is known for its rich history, cultural institutions, and affordable housing.
- People: Roxbury has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diversity and has a large African-American population.
- Attractions: Roxbury is home to the Museum of African American History, the Haley House Bakery Cafe, and the Roxbury Cultural District.
- Famous for: Rich history and cultural institutions.
- Businesses: Roxbury has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $500,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,300. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $1,700. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $2,200.
- Public transportation: Roxbury has several T stops (Roxbury Crossing and Jackson Square) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Mission Hill π
- Why live there: Mission Hill is known for its lively student population, diverse dining options, and proximity to Northeastern University and Wentworth Institute of Technology.
- People: Mission Hill has a mix of young professionals, students, and families.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a large Hispanic population.
- Attractions: Mission Hill is home to the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, and many restaurants and bars.
- Famous for: Lively student population and diverse dining options.
- Businesses: Mission Hill has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as some chain stores and supermarkets.
- Median house pricing: $700,000.
- Average price for studio: $1,800. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,000.
- Public transportation: Mission Hill has several T stops (Roxbury Crossing and Brigham Circle) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Chinatown π₯‘
- Why live there: Chinatown is known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and proximity to downtown.
- People: Chinatown has a mix of young professionals, families, and immigrants.
- Diversity: The neighborhood is predominantly Asian, but there is some diversity in the population.
- Attractions: Chinatown is home to the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, the Josiah Quincy Elementary School, and many restaurants and shops.
- Famous for: Vibrant culture and delicious food.
- Businesses: Chinatown has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on Asian cuisine and culture.
- Median house pricing: $1 million.
- Average price for studio: $1,800. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,400. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,200.
- Public transportation: Chinatown has several T stops (Chinatown and Tufts Medical Center) and is pedestrian-friendly.
- Downtown ποΈ
- Why live there: Downtown is known for its bustling city life, historic sites, and proximity to major attractions.
- People: Downtown has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is diverse, with a mix of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
- Attractions: Downtown is home to the Freedom Trail, the Boston Common, and many museums and theaters.
- Famous for: Historic sites and bustling city life.
- Businesses: Downtown has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, as well as many chain stores and major businesses.
- Median house pricing: $1.2 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,000. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $2,800. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $3,700.
- Public transportation: Downtown has several T stops (Park Street, Government Center, and Downtown Crossing) and is very pedestrian-friendly.
- Back Bay ποΈ
- Why live there: Back Bay is known for its upscale shopping, historic architecture, and proximity to major attractions.
- People: Back Bay has a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees.
- Diversity: The population is predominantly white, but there is some diversity in the neighborhood.
- Attractions: Back Bay is home to the Boston Public Library, the Prudential Center, and the Newbury Street shopping district.
- Famous for: Upscale shopping and historic architecture.
- Businesses: Back Bay has a mix of small businesses, restaurants, and shops, with a focus on luxury and high-end brands.
- Median house pricing: $2 million.
- Average price for studio: $2,400. Average price for 1 bedroom apartment: $3,300. Average price for 2 bedroom apartment: $4,400.
- Public transportation: Back Bay has several T stops (Back Bay and Copley) and is pedestrian-friendly.
The final notes
If you're looking to relocate to Phoenix and are researching different neighborhoods, here are 10 factors to consider:
π° Budget: Determine your budget and look for neighborhoods that fit within your price range.
π Safety: Research the crime rates and safety of each neighborhood.
ποΈ Amenities: Look for neighborhoods that offer the amenities you're looking for, such as parks, restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
π Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of each neighborhood to public transportation and major highways.
π« Schools: If you have children, research the schools in each neighborhood.
π Diversity: Determine the diversity of each neighborhood, if that is an important factor for you.
πΆ Walkability: Look for neighborhoods that are pedestrian-friendly and have a good walk score.
πΎ Pet-friendly: If you have pets, research the pet-friendliness of each neighborhood.
πΌ Employment opportunities: Consider the job market and employment opportunities in each neighborhood.
π΅ Climate: The desert climate of Phoenix can be intense, so research the climate and look for neighborhoods that offer shade and cooler temperatures.
By considering these factors and researching the different neighborhoods, you'll be able to find the best neighborhood in Phoenix that fits your needs and preferences.