Welcome to Boston, a city rich in history and bursting with diverse neighborhoods each offering unique experiences. From the charming, cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill, known for its beautiful Federal-style rowhouses, to the vibrant Allston neighborhood brimming with youthful energy and eclectic eateries, there's something for everyone in Boston. The Back Bay offers a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities, while the South End is famed for its Victorian brownstones and thriving arts scene. For those who crave waterfront views, Charlestown and East Boston are fantastic options. Each neighborhood in Boston provides its own distinct feel and community, making it an exciting place to call home. Experience the rich tapestry of Boston neighborhoods and find your perfect fit in this dynamic city.
Scroll down to find the right Boston neighborhood for you.
Allston-Brighton
Allston-Brighton is a dynamic set of interlocking neighborhoods in Boston, Massachusetts. Known as "Allston Rock City" for its abundance of music clubs and concert venues, this area is a vibrant center of culture and nightlife. The neighborhood offers an array of restaurants, bars, and eclectic shops catering to the college crowd and young adults. It's also home to Artesani Park and Playground, and a variety of affordable housing options. With a strong focus on community development and self-sufficiency, Allston-Brighton is a thriving and desirable place to live in Boston.
Back Bay
Back Bay is a historic and upscale neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. Built on reclaimed land in the Charles River basin in the 19th century, it's known for its picturesque streets lined with Victorian brownstones. The neighborhood is a hub of shopping, dining, and culture, centered around bustling Copley Square, home to Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library. Back Bay also houses some of Boston's tallest skyscrapers, offering premium accommodations and amenities. It's one of the most expensive residential areas in Boston, but also one of its most appealing.
Bay Village
Bay Village is a quaint neighborhood nestled in Boston, Massachusetts. Once known as South Cove, this tiny enclave offers a unique charm with its central location between the bustling Back Bay and the South End. Despite being the smallest officially recognized neighborhood in Boston, Bay Village is rich in history and culture.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill is a historic and picturesque neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. Known for its narrow cobblestone streets, federal style row houses, and gaslit street lamps, Beacon Hill exudes charm and elegance. The neighborhood is home to the Massachusetts State House and offers an array of boutique shops, diverse restaurants, and local attractions. Its central location, within walking distance to every major T line, makes it one of the most desirable places to live in.
Charlestown
Charlestown is the oldest neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. Located just north of the Charles River, it's known for its rich history and waterfront charm. This neighborhood houses two significant historical sites: the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution, both popular stops on the Freedom Trail. Charlestown offers a blend of ultra-modern, luxurious waterfront living along with the feel of a quaint New England town, making it one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Boston.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood in downtown Boston, known for its rich cultural heritage. It's the only historic Chinatown in New England, established by Chinese immigrants in the 1890s. The area is famous for its iconic Dragon Gate and a wide array of businesses, including restaurants, grocery stores, and professional services. With a variety of dining options, from dim sum stops to barbecue joints, Chinatown offers an authentic taste of Chinese cuisine.
Dorchester
Dorchester, the largest and one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Boston, spans over six square miles and is home to a multitude of cultures. Established in 1630, it's one of the city's oldest neighborhoods. Bordered by the Neponset River and Boston Harbor, Dorchester offers riverfront activities, harbor beaches, and boating opportunities. The neighborhood is home to notable attractions like the Franklin Park Zoo and the JFK Presidential Library.
Downtown
Downtown Boston, the heart of the city, is a vibrant area rich with history, culture, shopping, and dining. It's home to several must-visit sites such as the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston Common, and the New England Aquarium. This historic district is surrounded by Beacon Hill, Boston's Financial District, the West End neighborhood, and part of the Rose Kennedy Greenway. The area also boasts the Old State House, which is a key attraction for those interested in the city's history. Whether you're looking for entertainment, sightseeing, or simply a taste of Boston's culinary scene, Downtown Boston has it all.
East Boston
East Boston, often referred to as Eastie, is a diverse neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. Once a center for shipbuilding, East Boston is now known for its stunning waterfront and rich cultural heritage. It's home to a variety of cuisines and activities, reflecting the influence of its diverse immigrant populations. With the highest percentage of foreign-born residents in Boston, East Boston offers an eclectic mix of culture, food, and history.
Fenway-Kenmore
Fenway-Kenmore is a vibrant neighborhood in Boston, known primarily as the home of Fenway Park and the Red Sox. It's also recognized as an academic and cultural hub, housing part of Boston University and offering a wealth of culture, dining, and shopping options. This neighborhood boasts impressive museums, rows of townhouses, and is accessible to other Boston areas like Back Bay and South End. Its location and lively atmosphere make it a desirable place to live and visit. Whether you're a sports fan, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Fenway-Kenmore has something to offer.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood located in the southernmost part of Boston. Known as the city's suburban enclave, it offers an urban location with a suburban feel, home to a wide range of people, housing types, and social groups. The area was annexed into Boston in 1912 and is bordered by Milton and Dedham. It boasts attractions like the Massachusetts State House, George Wright Golf Course, and Rock Spot Climbing. The Neponset River adds a natural charm to this neighborhood, making it a unique blend of city living and suburban tranquility.
Jamaica Plain
Jamaica Plain, often referred to as "JP" by locals, is a unique neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. Known for its Victorian homes, diverse community, and abundance of green spaces, it provides a distinct, tranquil retreat from the city's bustle. The neighborhood boasts attractions like the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. Once a summertime resort for Bostonians, today's Jamaica Plain offers a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and year-round activities.
Mattapan
Mattapan is a vibrant neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, known for its diverse cultures and many immigrant-owned businesses. The area is predominantly inhabited by African Americans and immigrants from the Caribbean, including the largest Haitian community in Massachusetts. Mattapan Square serves as a bustling commercial center with residential communities branching off of it. Originating as a part of Dorchester in 1630, Mattapan became a distinct part of Boston in 1870.
Mission Hill
Mission Hill is a vibrant, primarily residential neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. Covering a 3⁄4 square mile area, it's bordered by Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, and Fenway-Kenmore. This neighborhood is known for its central location, proximity to Longwood Medical Area, Fenway, and several universities. With a population of 12,854, Mission Hill is considered one of the best places to live in Suffolk County. The neighborhood has undergone recent updates, renewing its charm while preserving its original character. Notably, it's just one mile from downtown Boston, making it a convenient place for residents and students alike.
North End
The North End, Boston's oldest residential neighborhood, is rich in history and culture. Often referred to as Boston's "Little Italy," the area is renowned for its Italian-American community, offering a plethora of Italian restaurants and pastry shops. It's also home to significant colonial-era sites, including Paul Revere's house, the Old North Church, and Copp's Hill Burying Ground. Despite being one of Boston's smallest neighborhoods, spanning just one square mile, the North End offers an abundance of activities, making it a must-visit spot in the city.
Roslindale
Roslindale, a primarily residential neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, is often referred to as the "garden suburb" of Boston due to its natural beauty and charm. It's surrounded by other neighborhoods like Jamaica Plain, Hyde Park, West Roxbury, and Mattapan. The area is known for its diverse community, with a mix of families with deep roots in the neighborhood and young professionals. It's also recognized for the multiculturalism of its shop owners.
Roxbury
Roxbury is one of Boston's oldest and most historic neighborhoods, playing a significant role in the city's story for over 250 years. Originally a farming community, it's now known for its cultural diversity and urban lifestyle. Key landmarks include the Shirley Eustis House, the only remaining country house built by a British Royal Colonial. The neighborhood's Fort Hill is particularly historic, with Highland Park being a popular destination. Roxbury, once a sprawling town founded by English colonists in 1630, is now a bustling neighborhood with a population of 45,898.
South Boston
South Boston, often affectionately known as 'Southie', is a vibrant neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts. It's renowned for its rich history, waterfront views, and close-knit community. South Boston features a mix of modern condos and traditional triple-decker homes, reflecting its blend of old and new. The neighborhood is home to Castle Island, a popular spot for outdoor activities, and the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, which draws crowds from all over. With a variety of local restaurants, bars, and shops, South Boston offers a unique blend of city living and community charm.
South End
The South End of Boston, Massachusetts is a diverse neighborhood known for its stunning brownstone architecture and cultural vibrancy. Bordered by Back Bay, Chinatown, and Roxbury, the area offers a unique blend of charm and sophistication, with its array of acclaimed restaurants like Coppa, SRV, Toro, B&G Oysters, and Kava Neo-Taverna. Its picturesque streets offer views of Boston's tallest buildings, adding to the allure. Despite the recent controversies surrounding proposed shelters, the South End remains one of the most popular neighborhoods in Boston.
West End
The West End of Boston, Massachusetts is a neighborhood rich in history and diversity. It's bounded by Cambridge Street to the south and the Charles River to the west. Once the most densely populated area of Boston, the West End has undergone significant transformations since the colonial era1. Today, residents enjoy sweeping views across the Charles River and towards the Boston Harbor. Its close proximity to Beacon Hill and Downtown Boston adds to its allure.
