List Of The Top 10 Safest Neighborhoods In Boston In 2023

Boston, a historic city in Northeast New England, holds a significant place in the country’s founding. As the capital of Massachusetts, Boston boasts a population of 675,649 and is home to prestigious universities like Harvard and MIT. If you are considering a move to this vibrant city, this article will guide you through the top ten safest neighborhoods in Boston for 2023.

10 Safest Neighborhoods in Boston

1. 1. Allston-Brighton
   2. Hyde Park
   3. Newton Upper Falls 
   4. West Roxbury
   5. Roslindale
   6. East Boston
   7. Jamaica Plain 
   8. South Boston
   9. Charlestown
   10. Dorchester

1. Allston-Brighton

Allston-Brighton is considered as the safest neighborhood in Boston. With a population of 70,469, it is one of the largest neighborhoods in the city, yet it boasts of a very low crime rate. As of 2022, the violent crime rate in the area was only 315 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, which makes it safer than 82% of other cities in Massachusetts. This neighborhood is a middle-class area that features a mix of residential and commercial establishments. Notable businesses that can be found in Allston-Brighton include WBGH Education Foundation and New Balance.

2. Hyde Park

With a population of 35,000, Hyde Park is a secure neighborhood in Boston that offers a suburban atmosphere. The community takes pride in being a small, close-knit town within the city, as reflected in its motto. Hyde Park boasts a remarkably low crime rate, with only one violent crime and 11 property crimes per 1,000 residents, making it 78% safer than the state average. This neighborhood is home to numerous locally owned businesses and shops, and it houses one of the top-rated dog parks in Boston.

3. Newton Upper Falls 

If you’re looking for a safe place to live in Boston, Newton Upper Falls is worth considering. This neighborhood borders Needham and West Roxbury and boasts a low crime rate of 605 per 100,000 people. Compared to the national average, crime in Newton Upper Falls is 56% lower, with residents having only a 1 in 166 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. In addition to its safety, Newton Upper Falls is home to the beautiful Hemlock Gorge and Echo Bridge, a stunning aqueduct-turned-pedestrian walkway over the Charles River. While the median home price in this area is $788,500, which is 327% higher than the national average, it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with living in a safe and picturesque neighborhood.

4. West Roxbury 

West Roxbury, located between Roslindale and Jamaica Plain, is considered one of the safest neighborhoods to reside in Boston. With a population of 30,446, it boasts a crime rate of 870 per 100,000 people, making it 63% safer than the US average and 36% safer than the Massachusetts average. Residents of West Roxbury have a mere 1 in 115 chance of falling victim to any type of crime. Often described as a tranquil residential community, it provides a secure environment for its inhabitants.

5. Roslindale

With a population of 37,610 residents, Roslindale is a primarily residential neighborhood that offers a suburban feel. The crime rate in this area is 1,341 per 100,000 people, which is 2% lower than the state average and 43% lower than the national average. Interestingly, a section of the Arnold Arboretum is located within the neighborhood, providing a natural escape for residents. In terms of real estate, the median home price in Roslindale is $293,614, representing a 14% decrease from the Massachusetts average.

6. East Boston

With a population of 40,508, East Boston boasts a remarkably low violent crime rate of 1,542 per 100,000 individuals. This neighborhood has a rich history of being a melting pot for various immigrant communities, which has contributed to its reputation as one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Boston. Over the years, crime rates in East Boston have been consistently decreasing, resulting in a safer environment for its residents. As of 2023, crime in East Boston has dropped by 34%, which is significantly lower than the national average.

7. Jamaica Plain 

With a population of 45,158 people, Jamaica Plain stands out as one of the safest neighborhoods in Boston. Known for its cultural diversity, the neighborhood is home to sizeable Latin, Asian, and Black communities. The crime rate in Jamaica Plain is 1,852 per 100,000 people, which is 21% lower than the national average. Residents have a 1 in 54 chance of experiencing any type of crime. Additionally, the cost of living in Jamaica Plain is merely 6% higher than the state average.

8. South Boston

With a population of 38,206, South Boston boasts a crime rate of 1,917 per 100,000 people, making it 18% safer than the national average. The chances of residents falling victim to any type of crime are 1 in 53. Despite being one of the city’s pricier areas, with a median rent of $2,850 per month, South Boston remains a popular destination due to its vibrant bar scene and lively events, particularly during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

9. Charlestown

With a population of 20,504, Charlestown boasts a crime rate of 1,948 per 100,000 people, making it 17% safer than the US average. While Charlestown’s crime rate is lower than the national average, it is still higher than the average across the country. Unfortunately, residents still have a 1 in 52 chance of becoming victims of any type of crime. However, the neighborhood is primarily residential, with many housing options situated near the waterfront and offering stunning views of the Boston skyline.

10. Dorchester

With a population of 134,000 people, Dorchester is one of the largest neighborhoods in Boston. Despite the size, it is considered a safe place to live, with a low chance of becoming a victim of property crime (1 in 34) or violent crime (1 in 121). Savin Hill, Clam Point, and Ashmont Hill are some of the safest areas in Dorchester. Additionally, many of Boston’s labor unions have their headquarters in this neighborhood.

Safest Places to Live in Boston Bottom Line

Boston is a city that boasts access to employment, higher education, and a plethora of cultural attractions. It is an ideal place to visit or reside in. However, safety is of utmost importance and comes with a high price tag, especially in the safest areas of Boston. Nonetheless, there are some areas that offer both safety and affordability. For example, Jamaica Plains is one such pocket of Boston that provides a more reasonable cost of living. So, while some of the neighborhoods on the list of Boston’s safest areas can be quite expensive, there are still affordable options available.

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