So, you're moving to Boston, Massachusetts and you want to know about the best places to settle? Making a well-informed decision on which neighborhood to live in is so important because Boston’s neighborhoods are so different. Whether you're part of a family scouting out a cozy suburb or a single ready to dive into city life, we've got something for you. In this guide, we're going to talk about the spots that cater to both families and singles. From quiet streets perfect for strolling to bustling areas with all the action, Boston's got something for everyone. Whether you're all about finding the best schools or hunting down the trendiest hangouts, Boston's neighborhoods have something for every vibe. All the neighborhoods have very distinct personalities. In the end, Boston's all about its people — sports fans, artists, entrepreneurs — it’s got a bit of everything.
Best places to live in Boston for families
Charlestown
Nestled north of the Charles River, Charlestown is Boston's OG neighborhood, dating all the way back to 1628 when it was called Mishawum. Fast forward to the Revolutionary War, and Charlestown became the stage for the epic Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775 – talk about making history! Charlestown is the oldest area in Boston and mostly residential. Compared to other neighborhoods close to downtown, it is a bit quainter and quieter. The community vibe is off the charts. Even though it’s a part of the big city scene, Charlestown keeps it real with friendly neighbors, cool events, and local hangouts that make you feel like you belong. Safety? No worries there! Charlestown's got low crime rates and tidy streets, so you can let the kids roam free without sweating it. And when it comes to schools, Charlestown's top-notch. From preschool to high school, the education game is strong here. And with downtown Boston just a hop, skip, and a jump away, you've got all the city perks right at your fingertips. Connected to downtown Boston by the Zakim Bridge, Charlestown strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and old-school charm. So, if you're up for a taste of traditions with a side of modern flair, Charlestown is an attractive destination. Come on over and explore – you won't regret it!
Pros of Charlestown
- History
- Trendy atmosphere
- Lovely restaurants
- Strong sense of community
- Great views of the harbor
Cons of Charlestown
- Pricey area
- Parking
- Limited green space
- Tourist crowds
- Limited entertainment options
East Boston
East Boston is located on the other side of the harbor from the central city and is an active neighborhood surrounded by water and New England’s leading airport. When you reside here, you have the skyline as seen from across the harbor; East Boston Greenway, several parks, and greenspaces where one can spend leisure time. And let's talk about the neighborhood's diversity – it's like a mini melting pot! The East Boston area offers some excellent educational opportunities; the resources in this case include those available at branch libraries of the Boston Public Library or major institutions such as Harvard University. Your kids would be able to experience learning outside the confines of the classroom with a number of elite museums, colleges, and cultural entities nearby. But it's not just about a perfect education – Eastie also has some awesome private and charter options. And let's not forget about all the cool stuff to do in Boston itself. To take it one step further, if it's amazing parks that you like, then East Boston has got you covered – it is simply Piers Park that will make sure that you have an enviable collection of photos that everyone else would love to envy.
Pros of East Boston
- Location
- Quiet and calm
- Diverse population
- Waterfront areas
- Reliable transportation
Cons of East Boston
- Airport noise
- Traffic congestion
- Susceptible to flooding
- Limited nightlife options
- Rising housing costs
Dorchester
Nestled within a little more than 6 square miles, Dorchester is the largest district in Boston. But its size isn't the sole factor that sets it apart – Dorchester proudly wears its diversity on its sleeve, boasting a mosaic of cultures that make up practically a fifth of Boston's population. Established in 1630 by Puritans who arrived at the shores of Columbia Point, Dorchester predates Boston itself. As the 19th century rolled in, Dorchester evolved into a haven for Boston's elite, drawn by its accessibility via the streetcar line into downtown. But it wasn't long before waves of people from different parts of Europe, Canada, and later, African Americans escaping the Jim Crow South, made it their home. People say: you don’t choose Dorchester, Dorchester chooses you. It is one of the best neighborhoods in Boston for families for several reasons. When it comes to education, Dorchester has got it covered. Plus, with all the libraries and educational programs around, you know your little ones will be getting the best start in life. But it's not all about hitting the books – there's plenty of fun to be had outdoors too! From parks and playgrounds to Franklin Park, which is like the Disneyland of green spaces, there's no shortage of places for family adventures.
Pros of Dorchester
- Green spaces
- Public transportation system
- Excellent restaurants
- Great playgrounds
- Diverse population
Cons of Dorchester
- Traffic
- Median Rent
- Parking spaces
- Crime rates
- Limited nightlife options
West Roxbury
Boston suburbs are a good distance to the southwest of the city but are not very far away. With its roots deeply embedded in Irish-American culture, West Roxbury is one of the best areas in Boston for families drawn to its charming homes that won't break the bank (at least by Boston standards). And there’s one big point to bear in mind: most people don’t know West Roxbury and Roxbury well enough, so it can be really easy to get confused about what makes these two areas different since they have no shared borders, although they are completely unique also if seen from a real Bostonian perspective. In 1851, West Roxbury seceded from the town, leading to the formation of Jamaica Plain and Roslindale as separate villages, thereby leaving it as an independent town until Boston annexed it a few years later. West Roxbury is the greenest Boston suburb; it features wide leafy streets, great single-family homes, and over three times more than the average amount of open space compared to other Boston suburbs. This is proven not only by the number, but also by the quality of schools in the community. Plus, the sense of community is off the charts. You'll find neighbors who feel like family and a support system that's always got your back.
Pros of West Roxbury
- Strong community spirit
- Abundance of amenities
- Rich history and charm
- Suburban tranquility
- Education
Cons of West Roxbury
- Traffic congestion
- Limited public transport options
- Lack of diversity in housing
- Limited nightlife and entertainment
- Unwalkable
Roslindale
Roslindale Village was once a busy commercial center, but it experienced a downturn in the mid-20th century before being restored through revitalization initiatives initiated by the Main Streets program. While Roslindale may feel like a suburban area, it is conveniently located near downtown Boston, which can be reached via commuter rail, bus, or the Orange Line subway. Renowned as Boston's garden city, it is where you will find the arboretum, which is a 265-acre tree garden that happens to be one of its kind in this country. A complete living community can be found in Roslindale, with easy access through the Orange Line and many buses and commuter trains as well. Among the attractions of Roslindale is that it is a short distance to the Arnold Arboretum, which is both a beautiful garden and a public park as well. It's just got tons of trees and plants and flowers. That’s just an interesting way to spend an afternoon or even a whole day. There is one central hub around which all else revolves in Roslindale: It's known locally as ‘Rosi Square’. Families can enjoy leisurely strolls through the area, grabbing a bite to eat or browsing for unique gifts, all within walking distance of home.
Pros of Roslindale
- Community atmosphere
- Green spaces
- Family-friendly
- Great shops, cafes, restaurants
- Easy access to public transportation
Cons of Roslindale
- Higher commute times
- Parking
- Limited nightlife
- Noise from transportation
- Limit choices for renters
Best places to live in Boston for singles & young professionals
South End
The South End has a mix of different lifestyles different personalities and the kinds of stuff. From Charles Eastlake's intricate incised decoration on stone trim to the common palette of red brick, slate, limestone or granite trim, and cast iron railings, there's a remarkable visual unity that ties the neighborhood together. But it's not just about the architecture - there's a whole vibe here. From top-notch dining to artsy hideaways and lush parks, there's always something happening in this lively area. Whether you're getting lost in the artsy SoWa Art + Design District or chilling in the sleek spots like Ink Block, you'll find a mix of old-school charm and modern vibes that's quintessentially Boston. And the best part? There are hidden gems around every corner - from cozy cafes to trendy boutiques to some seriously drool-worthy eateries tucked away in those classic brick townhouses. In the South End, you have easy access to a wide variety of cuisines. The culinary quality is comparable to that of the North End, with a diverse menu beyond Italian options. The South End also contains many parks and green spaces. Eleven, to be exact. You can order wonderful meals for takeaway and enjoy it on a picnic.
Pros of South End
- Diverse neighborhood
- Strong sense of community
- Fine restaurants
- Arts and culture
- Architectural charm
Cons of South End
- Rental rates
- Parking challenges
- Noise and congestion
- Limited grocery stores
- Limited green space
Jamaica Plain
As you ride the Orange Line away from Boston's center, you pass through the lovely Jamaica Plain. It is one of the city's largest neighborhoods, including a considerable chunk of Boston's Emerald Necklace of parks and green areas. In Jamaica Plain, almost 60% of the properties are owned by single people. Without a doubt, Jamaica Plain is Boston's most diverse neighborhood overall! Families, young professionals, seniors, and students are among the groups you have, and each of these groups has members from a variety of backgrounds. Jamaica Plain isn't just a neighborhood; it's a real tight-knit community and one of the best areas to live in Boston where folks are all about getting involved and making a difference. From local groups to artsy collectives, JP residents are always up to something cool. The district is known for having just a ton of very crafty small independent shops restaurants businesses especially as you walk on center street. And when it comes to housing, JP has it all, from hip lofts to historic homes, and with property values trending up, it's no wonder folks are flocking here. Comparatively speaking to other local communities, Jamaica Plain is typically a little more affordable. Therefore, you might want to include Jamaica Plain on your list of neighborhoods to consider if Boston prices are causing you sticker shock.
Pros of Jamaica Plain
- Access to downtown
- Rich history
- Thriving arts and culture scene
- Strong sense of community
- Cozy restaurants
Cons of Jamaica Plain
- Rising cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Limited public transportation options
- No major grocery store
- Noise levels
North End
The North End is charming and very historic part of Boston. Over the centuries, the North End has seen it all—waves of immigrants, from Irish to Eastern European Jewish, but it's the Italian influence that really left its mark. Back in the day, almost everyone here was Italian, and the place earned its Little Italy stripes. Today, while the Italian presence isn’t as dominant, you can still feel it in the air, especially during the summer when the streets come alive with festivals and the scent of fresh pasta. Some of the best Italian food and pastries can be found here, and with so many options, the North End eating scene is one of the obvious benefits of living here. In terms of bars, the North End has plenty of options to choose from. The North End's exceptional location and convenience are truly its biggest draws. You have the financial district, downtown, and the west end all right next to you. As you might imagine, it's smack in the heart of everything. Because of the harbor's natural beauty and the surroundings’ breathtaking views of the water, the city skyline, and historic sites, living directly on Boston Harbor is also very enticing to locals.
Pros of North End
- Location
- Great views
- Famous pastry shops
- Recreational facilities
- Great food
Cons of North End
- Parking
- Noise levels
- Crowded streets
- Housing options
- High cost of living
Back Bay
Back Bay is considered one of the crown jewel neighborhoods of Boston. It has it everything, from a prime location to one of the most gorgeous metropolitan settings one could ask for. Living in Back Bay provides close access to the Charles River Esplanade, which is the ideal way to unwind at the end of a hard day. Speaking of bites, Back Bay is a seafood lover's dream. And who can forget Atlantic Fish Company, with its giant steamed lobsters and charming streetside seating? But Back Bay isn't just about seafood—it's got some serious European flair too, especially when it comes to French cuisine. Rochambeau is the spot for escargot, mousse of foie gras, and mouthwatering crispy duck breast. And their fancy cocktails, like the Mantuano for rum lovers, are the cherry on top. And for brunch, you can't go wrong with Bistro du Midi, serving up classic favorites like Croque Madame and moules-frites alongside boozy cocktails. In terms of grocery stores, the district has Deluca's Market in the middle of the neighborhood, as well as a more traditional Star Market across from the Prudential Center. It may be the place for you if you're searching for classic Boston, prestige and cache, or simply a very handy position within Boston.
Pros of Back Bay
- Tree-lined streets
- Cultural attractions
- Restaurants
- Location
- Architecture
Cons of Back Bay
- Cost of living
- Noise levels
- Challenging driving
- Parking
- Crowded
Beacon Hill
One of the most affluent neighborhoods in the state and city of Boston, Massachusetts, is Beacon Hill. It is one of the oldest communities in the US and one of the smallest in Boston, measuring around one square mile. But Beacon Hill isn't just about looks. Follow those red bricks, and you'll find yourself at places like the Massachusetts State House and the Granary Burying Ground, where some big names from American history rest. Boston Common is also amazing place. It is like a time capsule of American history, dating all the way back to 1634. As the oldest city park in the country, it's witnessed everything from solemn public hangings during the Revolutionary War to joyful Fourth of July celebrations that inspired the Declaration of Independence. Visitors to the Common can do it all: take leisurely strolls along winding pathways, bask in the sun on the expansive lawns, or let the kids loose in one of the two playgrounds. You'll feel right at home here if you enjoy boutique shopping and the atmosphere of a quiet cafe. Charming stores and restaurants with distinct personalities can be found all across Beacon Hill. And its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from other awesome Boston neighborhoods. So why not keep the adventure going by choosing this place as a new home?
Pros of the Beacon Hill
- Walkable
- Easy access to the MBTA
- Charming local cafes
- Close-knit community
- Abundance of activities
Cons of the Beacon Hill
- High costs
- Parking
- Tourists
- Old infrastructure
- Lots of hills
Conclusion
Boston has a wonderful atmosphere that makes it seem like a tiny town with all the conveniences of the big city. There's never a dull moment in this dynamic city, from wandering down the historic Freedom Trail to watching a game at the legendary Fenway Park. Whether you're a young professional seeking a change of pace or a growing family seeking a new home, you may find a place to live here. Why then wait? Discover your preferred area and let Boston warmly greet you!
Bottom Line
Whether you're already in Boston or planning a move to the city, there are options to make the process smoother. For those already in Boston, using trusted local moving services like Milvus Moving can provide peace of mind and efficient transportation of your belongings.
