The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Boston for New Residents

Boston is more than just great accents, Dunkin’, and Fenway Park (we can’t lie – those are big parts of it, too). One of the oldest cities in the U.S., Boston is also filled with gorgeous brownstones, can’t-miss restaurants and bars, and more museums and history packed into its cobblestone streets than you can imagine. Whether you’re looking for a Boston neighborhood known for its historical landmarks or a funky, lively hood in Cambridge, we’ve got you covered. We looked at median rents, commute times, and atmosphere to compile a guide to the best neighborhoods in Boston.

1. Beacon Hill
2. Back Bay
3. North End
4. South End
5. Allston
6. Cambridge
7. Jamaica Plain
8. Fenway
9. Seaport District

1. Beacon Hill

The best neighborhood for timeless elegance and tons of culture

• Driving distance to downtown: 0.9 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 14 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $2,800 (as of September 2024)
• Culture: Elegant living in a historic setting
• Top Things to Do: Explore the Massachusetts State House, visit the Boston Athenaeum, and stroll through Louisburg Square

Northeast of Back Bay is home to perhaps the most photogenic of all Boston neighborhoods – Beacon Hill. Think of it as a tamer, more cultural version of Back Bay. Here, residents find a blend of historical significance and upscale living, with beautifully preserved Federal-style rowhouses, cobblestone streets, and proximity to the Boston Common and Boston Public Garden. The neighborhood’s central location, combined with its unique boutiques along Charles Street and the esteemed Boston Athenaeum, make it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a refined urban lifestyle steeped in history. T stops are close by, but most residents here own a car.

2. Back Bay

The best neighborhood for upscale living and nightlife

• Driving distance to downtown: 1.7 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 19 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,300
• Culture: A hub of history, culture, and modern amenities
• Top things to do: Visit the Boston Public Library, explore Copley Square, and shop along Newbury Street

If you want to impress, you can’t do much better than Boston’s esteemed Back Bay neighborhood. Rent prices in Boston don’t get much higher, but apartments don’t get much nicer. The location is perfect for any socializing city-dweller, as it sits on the outskirts of the gorgeous Boston Commons, the scenic Charles River, and the shopping havens Newbury Street, Copley Plaza, and The Prudential Center. You’ll never have to go far for a great meal or cocktail. The Boston Public Library, the first in the nation to allow book borrowing, is right in the heart of the neighborhood. There are also multiple T and bus stops nearby, so you can see why it made our list as one of the best neighborhoods in Boston. With its signature Victorian brownstones, new builds, and proximity to nightlife, newcomers to Boston will get the best of both worlds: access to classic Boston and urban upscale living.

3. North End

The best neighborhood for culture

• Driving distance to downtown: 0.9 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 14 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $2,673
• Culture: A historic neighborhood with a strong Italian-American heritage
• Top Things to Do: Visit the Paul Revere House, explore the Old North Church, and indulge in Italian cuisine along Hanover Street

Once you let people know you’ve moved to the North End, you will have to be prepared to answer the question, “What’s your favorite Italian spot?” It’s a fair question, considering this was a historically Italian neighborhood. With tight streets (watch Ben Affleck’s “The Town”—the robbery where they’re dressed as nuns is in the North End!) and some really neat historic buildings, you’ll feel like a time warp. Speaking of historical buildings, the North End is also home to the Paul Revere House, where Revere began his storied ride. The North End’s proximity to the Rose Kennedy Greenway and its tight-knit community, exemplified by the numerous summer festivals celebrating various saints, make it an attractive choice for those who appreciate a rich cultural experience and a strong sense of tradition.

Rents in the North End vary, depending on the modernity of your building, ranging from college student prices to IBanker prices. There are Green and Orange line T-stops nearby, as well, so you’ll get your fair share of tourists roaming around your neighborhood, but the charm of the neighborhood outweighs the busy streets.

4. South End

The best neighborhood for green space (and art)

• Driving distance to downtown: 1.6 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 23 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,397
• Culture: A lively arts and dining scene in a diverse community
• Top Things to Do: Attend events at the Boston Center for the Arts, explore the SoWa Art + Design District, and dine at renowned restaurants like Toro and Coppa

The South End boasts an amazing food scene, great nightlife options, and many young families making it their new home. With an eclectic mix of art galleries, studios, and acclaimed restaurants, this is a popular choice for renters who want tree-lined streets and cultural access. It’s also home to some of the city’s most beautiful parks and green spaces, including the Southwest Corridor Park and the Franklin Square Park. High rises have popped up in the last few years, but part of the charm of living in Boston is moving into a beautiful old brownstone building. And if brownstones are what you’re after, there’s no better place than the South End to find one.

One glaring downside to the neighborhood is that the area is only serviced by the Silver bus line, so you’ll need a car unless you’re willing to rely on the bus for every trip. Still, you’re right in the heart of the city, only a short ride from the glamor of Newbury Street and the serenity of the Boston Commons.

5. Allston

The best neighborhood for students and young professionals

• Driving distance to downtown: 4.9 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 37 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,500
• Culture: Youthful; great for live music

Home to students from Harvard, Boston University, Boston College, and even young professionals, Allston is an eclectic, lively Boston neighborhood. Bostonians from all over the city come to Allston specifically for its street art murals and live music venues. Plus, the outdoor beer gardens, iconic donut shops, and some of the best local bars in town make this one of the best neighborhoods in Boston for newcomers, too. If you live here, you can expect to be in the center of the action. Just prepare yourself for Allston Christmas.

6. Cambridge (Harvard Square, Central Square, Porter Square)

The best area to experience the arts

• Driving distance to downtown: 6 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 20 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,000
• Culture: Collegiate, artistic, lively

Though not in Boston itself, the city of Cambridge is just on the other side of the Charles River. It is a great place for newcomers to the area who want a collegiate, academic, and historical atmosphere. Buses and the T both service the area, making it easy to reach whether you have a car or not. Living in Cambridge instantly makes you sound smarter than you are, thanks to the fact that M.I.T. and Harvard’s campuses are located here. Pick one of the main Squares to live in: Harvard, Central, or Porter. It’s also known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Harvard Square is almost like its own mini-city, with tons of great restaurants, new and old, endless public transportation options, and lots of students. Central Square has a little less polish and a little more personality; you’ll find funkier bars, restaurants, and the famous Middle East nightclub. Somewhere between those two is the more domestic and calm Porter Square. There are apartment buildings, but Porter has plenty of great duplexes available for rent.

7. Jamaica Plain

The best area for those seeking a dynamic community

• Driving distance to downtown: 5.4 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 31 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,354
• Culture: A diverse and inclusive community
• Top Things to Do: Explore the Arnold Arboretum, visit the Samuel Adams Brewery, and enjoy the outdoor activities at Jamaica Pond

Jamaica Plain, or “JP” as locals call it, is known for its strong sense of community and commitment to social justice. With its mix of historic homes, green spaces like the Arnold Arboretum and Franklin Park, and a thriving local business scene along Centre Street, JP offers a unique blend of urban living and natural beauty. The neighborhood’s inclusive atmosphere and proximity to the Southwest Corridor Park and the Samuel Adams Brewery make it an attractive choice for families, young professionals, and anyone who values diversity and community values.

9. Fenway

The best area for sports fanatics

• Driving distance to downtown: 2.4 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 33 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $2,900
• Culture: A lively neighborhood anchored by Fenway Park and cultural institutions
• Top Things to Do: Catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, explore the Museum of Fine Arts, and enjoy nightlife on Lansdowne Street

Fenway is centered around the iconic Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. The area is also a cultural hub, with world-class institutions like the Museum of Fine Arts and Symphony Hall. With over 17 colleges and universities, including Boston University and the Berklee College of Music, Fenway has a strong academic presence. The Bleacher Bar, located inside Fenway Park, and the House of Blues on Lansdowne Street offer unique entertainment experiences. At the same time, the Fens and the Kelleher Rose Garden provide serene green spaces. So if you love nothing more than a ballpark hotdog and sports-arena energy, this is a great place to call home.

9. Seaport District

The best area for waterfront views and modern luxury

• Driving distance to downtown: 1.1 miles
• Commute time to downtown via public transit: 12 minutes
• Median 1-bedroom rent: $3,660
• Culture: A modern, upscale neighborhood with a focus on innovation and design
• Top Things to Do: Visit the Institute of Contemporary Art, explore the Harbor Walk, and attend a concert at the Leader Bank Pavilion

The Seaport District is a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood showcasing the modern side of Boston. The Institute of Contemporary Art’s waterfront views and thought-provoking exhibits anchors the area’s thriving arts scene. The Seaport’s dining options are equally impressive, with standout restaurants like Woods Hill Pier 4, Row 34, and the many offerings at the Omni Boston Hotel. Luxury boutiques, seasonal markets, and the innovative rotating retail space, The Current, make the Seaport a shopping destination. Residents can enjoy waterfront living and city views, with easy access to the Boston Harbor Walk and seasonal events like the Snowport winter market. If you’re moving to Boston and love to be close to the water, this is the spot for you.

Frequently asked questions about living in Boston

Final thoughts

Whether you’re a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a great community to call home, there’s a neighborhood in Boston that’s perfect for you. So why wait? Start exploring these 7 best neighborhoods in Boston today, and find the perfect fit for you.