10 Best Neighborhoods to Live in Boston, MA [2024]

Searching for the best neighborhoods in Boston comes with a wealth of history, diversity, and pub-worthy crawls attracting a mix of locals. The city was founded in the 1630s. It’s one of the oldest cities in the US. 

That makes the greater Boston neighborhoods a goldmine for dazzling architecture and historical attractions. Take your pick of urban living or quiet, historic charm from 10 of the best neighborhoods in Boston.

Best Boston Neighborhoods

How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in Boston

For us, choosing the best Boston neighborhoods came down to a number of factors:

• Rental Prices: We looked for a mix of upscale and affordable neighborhoods that were desirable to renters.
• Popularity: These neighborhoods are all highly-rated and sought-after places to live in Boston.
• Lifestyle: Whether you crave the beach life, a charming island community, historic vibes, or a young and vibrant scene, this list has something for most preferences.
• Amenities: The neighborhoods encompass a range of offerings, including beautiful beaches, parks, shopping, dining, nightlife, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other nice neighborhoods to consider as well. If you're feeling brave, consider browsing all of our Boston apartment listings and investigating neighborhoods on your own!

Please note that the rent averages below represent current listings on our website and may differ from what people are actually paying right now.

1. Back Bay

• Best for: People who want to live close to great shopping; urban walkers
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,911
• Map of Back Bay

Living in Back Bay puts you at the heart of Boston's most admired neighborhood. Stroll down tree-lined Commonwealth Avenue, a Parisian-inspired boulevard lined with brownstones, many converted to stunning apartments. Upscale Newbury Street beckons with designer boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafes – all within walking distance.

Back Bay is a walker's paradise. Take a break from the city buzz at the serene Public Garden, the country's first botanical garden, featuring beautiful swan boats and seasonal blooms. Enjoy easy access to the Charles River running path for jogging, biking, or simply taking in the scenery.

2. South End

• Best for: Living at the heart of the action
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,784
• Map of South End

Live in the middle of it all. You’ll have bustling pubs, restaurants, and trendy coffee shops in one of the best neighborhoods in Boston. 

Like most of the city, South End is full of historic architecture and homes. You’ll also find lively pubs and shops lining the streets. 

The neighborhood attracts millennials and new grads looking to live in a culturally rich community. Spend some time getting to know your new Boston neighborhood at the SoWa Art & Design District. From spring to fall, many residents enjoy the local farmer’s markets.

3. Beacon Hill

• Best for: People who want to live in an iconic neighborhood that's slightly more affordable
• Average one-bedroom rent: $2,920
• Map of Beacon Hill

Stroll through one of the best neighborhoods in Boston with picture-perfect views. It's easy to see why Beacon Hill’s world-renowned Acorn Street is one of the most photographed streets in the US. 

For antique shopping, browse Charles Street. There, you’ll find shops and boutiques offering a range of homewares and more. Beacon Hill is also the home of the famous pub, Cheers, and the Boston Commons. 

Beacon Hill is ideal if you're looking for a centrally located Boston neighborhood with urban amenities and rich history. The neighborhood is home to the Massachusetts State House and Boston Common. It also features a charming winter skating pond that attracts locals and visitors.

4. Allston-Brighton Area

• Best for: Students and people looking for a walkable nightlife
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,426
• Map of Allston

Named after poet and painter Washington Allston, the Boston neighborhood of Allston features an urban enclave. It’s full of bars, restaurants, and parks that an influx of students and young professionals call home. 

There's no shortage of hip places to see and be seen. A couple of favorites are the Silhouette Lounge, or "the Sil," and the Deep Ellum gastropub. Lower Alston also is home to Harvard Stadium, so plan to see plenty of sports-crazed college students.

Pro tip: September 1st is known as "Allston Christmas." That’s when college students move in and out of apartment buildings. They leave behind discarded furniture, clothing, electronics, and more. Scour the streets for all kinds of interesting finds.

Mike Norton

5. Charlestown

• Best for: Professionals and people seeking an old-world neighborhood vibe
• Average one-bedroom rent: n/a
• Map of Charlestown

With a history dating back to the Revolutionary War, Charlestown was once the meeting place for battleground leaders. Locals now consider it to be one of the best neighborhoods in Boston. 

A mix of young professionals and families spill onto the sidewalks. They enjoy the neighborhood's Freedom Trail. You’ll also find many residents enjoying green spaces and the old-world vibe. 

Spend your weekends shopping and bar hopping along Main Street and in City Square. Antique gas lamps outside illuminate the evening. For a history-rich beer with the locals, head to Warren Tavern which dates back to 1780.

6. Jamaica Plain 

• Best for: Streetcar enthusiasts and people who enjoy weekend strolls through independent shopping districts
• Average one-bedroom rent: n/a
• Map of Jamaica Plain

The diverse Jamaica Plain, Boston neighborhood embraces a cozy, tight-knit atmosphere. There are also plenty of green spaces. 

Locals know this neighborhood for its streetcar history, family-owned restaurants, and independent shopping along Centre Street. On weekends, stroll along Jamaica Pond and through the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University.

Then, grab a bite at Blue Nile Ethiopian restaurant. You may also enjoy El Oriental de Cuba for a mouth-watering Cuban sandwich.

7. North End

• Best for: History buffs and Italian food lovers
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,142
• Map of North End

Wind through North End's maze of some of Boston's oldest buildings. There, you’ll find the Paul Revere House, dating back to 1680. 

North End is also one of the best neighborhoods in Boston for Italian eateries. It also features amazing old-school pastry shops with lines out the door. Mike's Pastry is a local favorite. 

The neighborhood still retains its Italian roots and charm. However, its proximity to downtown Boston and the waterfront make it popular among landlords and developers. They’re looking to attract young professionals and families alike.

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8. Brookline

• Best for: Families and those looking for a quieter but connected neighborhood
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,196
• Map of Brookline

Washington Square and Coolidge Corner are the beating hearts of Brookline. Explore a delightful mix of pubs, cafes, and local shops lining the streets. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a cozy cafe, or enjoy a night out with friends at a lively Washington Square eatery.

While Brookline offers a vibrant social scene, it also caters to those seeking a quieter pace. Choose from a variety of apartments and condos throughout the neighborhood, many with a distinctive brownstone aesthetic. Brookline boasts excellent public schools, making it a haven for families. Wide, tree-lined streets and numerous parks provide ample space for kids to play. Take a break at Larz Anderson Park, featuring a rose garden and stunning views of the city skyline.

9. Porter Square

• Best for: Students and young professionals
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,650
• Map of Porter Square

Popular with Lesley University and Harvard students, Porter Square in Cambridge teems with students and young professionals. Residents know the area as a one-stop-shop where you’ll find trendy coffee shops, boutiques, and delicious Japanese food.

Locals listen to live music at the cozy but well-regarded Toad. Then, they head home to single-family houses, apartment buildings, and condos loaded with amenities.

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10. Cambridge

• Best for: Students and young professionals who want to be close to Harvard and MIT
• Average one-bedroom rent: $3,377
• Map of Cambridge

Nestled across the Charles River from Boston, the picturesque Cambridge is home to Harvard Yard. This neighborhood also boasts numerous cafes, bookstores, and more. 

Visitors come to see the MIT Museum and Harvard Square. They enjoy the area along with a mix of young professionals, faculty, and students from nearby Universities. 

After work, locals head to Harvard Square or Central Square for shopping, street performances, and a bite to eat. Take your pick of historic townhouses, condos, or apartment complexes nestled around major corridors and hubs. They mark Cambridge as one of the best neighborhoods in Boston.

Looking for a New Apartment in Boston?

Ready to make a move to historic Beantown? Learn about the average rent in Boston and the cost of living in Boston.

Check out our comprehensive guide on how to find an apartment in Boston.

FAQs about the Best Boston Neighborhoods

What is the nicest neighborhood in Boston?

We chose Back Bay, South End, and Beacon Hill as our top choices for rental value, iconic neighborhood views, and great shopping.

Is $100000 a good salary in Boston?

Our data shows that overall median rent in Boston stands around $2,378 a month. In order to comfortably afford an apartment at that rate, you would need to earn right around $100,000 and still have enough left over for savings and entertainment.