When choosing where to live in or around Boston, you'll discover an incredible variety of distinct communities. The city of Boston itself consists of 23 unique neighborhoods, each with its own history, character, culture, and vibe. To make the best decision, consider key factors like household income levels, school quality, community style, diversity, and real estate prices.

Best Boston Neighborhoods Comparison

The table below compares key characteristics of Boston's neighborhoods. Click on each for more details or to search properties.

Search	Neighborhood	Average Property Price	Median Household Income	MCAS % Meeting/Exceeding (Avg ELA/Math)	Size	Neighborhood Description
	Allston	$650,000	$65,000	~30%		Vibrant, student-heavy area known for affordable housing, diverse nightlife, and proximity to universities.
	Back Bay	$1,500,000+	$140,000+	~35%		Elegant Victorian neighborhood famous for upscale shopping on Newbury Street, historic architecture, and cultural attractions.
	Bay Village	$1,200,000+	$130,000+	~35%		Boston's smallest, charming hidden gem with quaint row houses, quiet streets, and central location near theaters.
	Beacon Hill	$1,800,000+	$150,000+	~35%		Historic, picturesque area with cobblestone streets, gas lamps, Federal-style homes, and the State House.
	Brighton	$700,000	$85,000	~35%		Family-friendly, diverse suburb-like area with young professionals, good parks, and affordable options near universities.
	Charlestown	$1,100,000	$130,000	~40%		Historic waterfront neighborhood with revolutionary sites like Bunker Hill, tight-knit community, and harbor views.
	Chinatown	$1,000,000+	$80,000	~30%		Compact, bustling hub of Asian culture with authentic restaurants, markets, and central downtown access.
	Dorchester	$650,000	$75,000	~30%		Boston's largest and most diverse neighborhood offering affordable housing, parks, beaches, and ethnic eateries.
	Downtown	$1,200,000	$150,000+	~35%		Central business and shopping district with skyscrapers, historic sites, theaters, and excellent transit.
	East Boston	$685,000	$70,000	~30%		Diverse, waterfront area with growing appeal, harbor views, parks, and quick airport/Logan access.
	Fenway	$900,000	$60,000	~30%		Energetic cultural hub home to Fenway Park, museums, universities, and vibrant nightlife.
	Financial District	$1,500,000+	$160,000+	~35%		Bustling business core with high-rises, luxury condos, waterfront access, and proximity to dining/shopping.
	Hyde Park	$600,000	$85,000	~35%		Quiet, suburban-feeling area with single-family homes, parks, and a "small town in the city" atmosphere.
	Jamaica Plain	$850,000	$110,000	~40%		Progressive, diverse neighborhood with beautiful parks, Jamaica Pond, and a strong community feel.
	Mattapan	$550,000	$60,000	~25%		Diverse, working-class area with strong Caribbean influences, green spaces, and affordable homes.
	Midtown	$1,200,000+	$120,000	~35%		Central urban area blending theater district energy with modern condos and easy transit access.
	Mission Hill	$900,000	$65,000	~30%		Diverse hilltop area near medical centers and universities, with young professionals and global cuisine.
	North End	$1,200,000	$130,000	~35%		Boston's "Little Italy" famous for authentic Italian restaurants, historic sites, and waterfront charm.
	Roslindale	$650,000	$100,000	~40%		Family-oriented "garden suburb" with vibrant village square, diverse dining, and access to Arnold Arboretum.
	Roxbury	$750,000	$50,000	~25%		Historic heart of Black culture in Boston with vibrant arts scene, community spirit, and ongoing revitalization.
	Seaport	$1,800,000+	$170,000+	~35%		Modern waterfront innovation district with luxury developments, trendy restaurants, and harbor views.
	South Boston	$900,000	$130,000	~35%		Proud, working-class waterfront area with beaches, parks, strong community ties, and growing popularity.
	South End	$1,200,000	$120,000	~40%		Trendy Victorian district known for diverse dining, art galleries, parks, and inclusive LGBTQ+ community.
	Waterfront	$1,500,000+	$150,000+	~35%		Prime harborfront area with luxury residences, seafood dining, aquariums, and scenic walks.
	West End	$1,200,000	$130,000	~35%		Modern area near TD Garden with sports/entertainment venues, hospitals, and river views.
	West Roxbury	$750,000	$110,000	~45%		Peaceful suburban neighborhood with tree-lined streets, good schools, parks, and commuter rail access.