Top 10 Safest Neighborhoods To Live in Boston (2023)
Boston is a city steeped in history and culture in Northeast New England. As the state capital of Massachusetts, it boasts a population of 675,649 and is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world, including Harvard and MIT. If you’re considering moving to the city, knowing which neighbourhoods are the safest is essential. In this article, we’ll look at the top ten safest areas in Boston for 2023.
Safest Neighborhoods in Boston
1. Allston-Brighton
Allston-Brighton is considered the safest neighbourhood in Boston, with a meager crime rate. It is one of the largest neighbourhoods in Boston and has a population of 70,469. In 2022, the violent crime rate in the area was 315 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, making it safer than 82% of other cities in Massachusetts. The neighbourhood is a mix of residential and commercial areas and is considered middle-class. Notable businesses in the area include the WBGH Education Foundation and New Balance.
2. Hyde Park
Located in Boston, Hyde Park is a serene neighbourhood that has a population of 35,000 and boasts a unique suburban vibe. The locals proudly identify their community as “A small town in the city” and cherish the closeness of their tightly-knit neighbourhood. Hyde Park is a haven with a crime rate of only one violent crime and 11 property crimes for every 1,000 residents, making it 78% safer than the state average. In addition to being a safe neighbourhood, Hyde Park is renowned for its locally owned shops and stores and has one of Boston’s most highly-rated dog parks.
3. Newton Upper Falls
Located near Needham and West Roxbury, Newton Upper Falls is a prime location for those seeking a safe place to reside in Boston. With a crime rate of only 605 per 100,000 people, the neighbourhood is 56% safer than the national average, and the chances of residents becoming victims of any crime are as low as 1 in 166. The area is known for its natural beauty, with Hemlock Gorge and Echo Bridge, a pedestrian walkway over the Charles River, being popular attractions. Although the median home price in Newton Upper Falls is $788,500, 327% higher than the national average, the neighbourhood’s safe environment makes it a desirable place to live.
4. West Roxbury
West Roxbury is a serene residential neighbourhood located between Roslindale and Jamaica Plain. With a population of 30,446, it is considered one of the safest places to live in Boston. The crime rate is impressively low at 870 per 100,000 people, making West Roxbury 63% safer than the US average and 36% safer than the Massachusetts average. Residents here have only a 1 in 115 chance of becoming victims of any crime. The community is known for its peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place to call home.
5. Roslindale
Roslindale is a neighbourhood with a residential vibe, inhabited by around 37,610 people. The crime rate in this area is 1,341 per 100,000 individuals, which is 2% less than the state’s average and 43% lower than the national average. The Arnold Arboretum lies within the boundaries of this lovely neighbourhood. The median price of homes in Roslindale is $293,614, 14% lower than the average in Massachusetts.
6. Easton Boston
With a population of 40,508, Easton Boston boasts a meager violent crime rate of only 1,542 per 100,000 residents. This neighbourhood is known for its rich diversity, welcoming and embracing numerous immigrant communities. It is considered one of the most culturally diverse neighbourhoods in Boston. Thanks to the concerted efforts of law enforcement and community leaders, crime rates in East Boston have been steadily declining in recent years, effectively making it a safer place to live. As of 2023, the neighbourhood’s crime rate is 34% lower than the national average.
7. Jamaica Plain
With a population of 45,158 people, Jamaica Plain is a culturally diverse neighbourhood in Boston known for its large Latin, Asian, and Black communities. Not only that, but it also boasts one of the safest neighbourhoods in Boston. The crime rate in Jamaica Plain is 1,852 per 100,000 people, making it 21% safer than the US average. Residents have a 1 in 54 chance of becoming victims of any crime. Additionally, the cost of living in this neighbourhood is only 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, which is 18% safer than the national average. The odds of becoming a victim of any crime are 1 in 53 for residents. The neighbourhood is known for its high cost of living, with a median rent of $2,850 per month. Regarding St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, South Boston is the place to be, as it hosts some of the best bars and events in the city.
9. Charlestown
With a population of 20,504, Charlestown is a residential neighbourhood with a stunning view of the Boston skyline. While it boasts a crime rate of 1,948 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average, Charlestown’s crime rate still exceeds the national average. However, residents can take comfort in the fact that the neighbourhood is 17% safer than the US average. Despite this, the chances of becoming a victim of any crime in Charlestown are 1 in 52.
10. Dorchester
Dorchester is a vibrant neighbourhood in Boston, home to 134,000 people. It is known for its safety, making it an ideal residence place. However, it is essential to note that the chance of falling victim to property crime is 1 in 34, while the possibility of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 121. To ensure maximum safety, it is recommended to reside in the safer areas of Dorchester, such as Savin Hill, Clam Point, and Ashmont Hill. Furthermore, many of Boston’s labour unions are located in Dorchester, making it an essential hub for the city’s workforce.
Also Read:
- The Top 10 Most Safest Cities in North Carolina for 2023
- List of the 10 Most Safest Cities in Arizona for 2023
- The Top 10 Most Safest Neighborhoods in Las Vegas (2023)
- List of the Top 10 Safest Cities in Tennessee in 2023
