Boston is renowned for its rich history, tree-lined streets, and stunning views of the Charles River. The city’s green spaces and diverse architectural styles contribute to its New England charm, with numerous neighborhoods offering unique experiences for residents and visitors alike. If you’re considering relocating to Boston, the average rent is $3,450, while the median home sale price stands at $775,000.
Choosing a place to live in Boston can be a daunting task due to the multitude of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. To assist you in finding the ideal Boston neighborhood, we’ve compiled a guide highlighting some of the most popular options. Let’s dive in.
Boston housing
Before exploring the neighborhoods, it’s essential to understand the housing options available in Boston. From traditional New England-style houses to modern apartments, the city offers a diverse range of housing options. Historic homes, including Colonial, Victorian, and Georgian styles dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, can be found throughout the city. Newer neighborhoods feature a mix of Cape Cod, ranch, and split-level homes.
Boston also boasts a variety of apartments, from luxury high-rise units to historic buildings like Brownstone apartments on Commonwealth Avenue. With an overview of the housing options, let’s delve into the neighborhoods themselves.
1. Allston
Located east of Downtown Boston, Allston is home to several Harvard University buildings and athletic facilities. The neighborhood offers a vibrant mix of entertainment venues like Agganis Arena and Brighton Music Hall, making it a hub for live music and nightlife. The neighborhood boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from authentic Chinese and Turkish cuisine to top-rated bakeries. Green spaces like Christian Herter Park and Ringer Park offer residents ample outdoor recreation opportunities. Allston’s high Walk Score of 87 and Bike Score of 92 make it a pedestrian-friendly area.
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 stands out as one of Boston’s most iconic neighborhoods, renowned for its Victorian brownstone houses and picturesque streets. The area offers an array of upscale shopping, dining, and popular tourist attractions. Newbury Street, lined with restaurants like Joe’s on Newbury and Saltie Girl, is a must-visit destination. Back Bay is home to landmarks such as the Prudential Center, Hatch Memorial Shell, Trinity Church, and Copley Square. With ample green spaces like Charles River Esplanade, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, and Boston Common, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in this neighborhood. Back Bay boasts a stellar Walk Score of 97, making it highly walkable.
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