Boston's best
neighborhoods
June 2024 ■
Words by Eleanor Purvis
The Bon's take on where to live in Boston
Boston has some wonderful neighborhoods, whether you're looking to live in the heart of the action or enjoy a more tranquil settings explore our top picks.
Back Bay - live in the heart of the action
Looking to live in a central, upmarket location, Back Bay is a great option. The neighborhood is packed full of historic charm but also offers lots of amenities. There is a whole host of cafes, bars, shops and restaurants. If you're looking to live in a vibrant urban setting Back Bay could be the place for you.
The neighborhood is known for its buzzing atmosphere, high end shopping, with lots of cultural hotspots and plenty of dining options on your doorstep. Back Bay is also close to Boston Common & Public gardens for when you need that moment of calm.
Offering a mix of luxury condos and apartments this affluent area does come with a hefty price tag.
Brookline - a leafy suburb
Brookline offers a quieter residential feel while still being close to the city. Enjoy tree-lined streets, with beautiful parks and a variety of independent shops and restaurants to choose from. It is also known for its proximity to medical institutions like Longwood Medical Area, and Boston University.
Brookline offers a suburban feel with quick public transit connections to the city. It is a great base for those looking to live in a quieter neighborhood whilst still being close to all the city has to offer.
The area is known for it's wonderful green spaces like Larz Anderson Park, Olmsted Park, Brookline Reservoir. Brookline's wealth of green spaces, combined with excellent amenities, makes it a great neighborhood to live in for those seeking a balance between the hustle and bustle of a city location and a more tranquil, suburban setting.
Fenway - the best of both worlds
We love Fenway, and that's why we chose to open The Bon in the neighborhood. Fenway-Kenmore has a youthful vibe, a buzzing nightlife, a variety of entertainment and dining options and a good array of parks and green spaces to explore. The area is well positioned with its proximity to universities (like Boston and Northeastern) and medical institutions. It is also well connected with an abundance of public transit options.
Fenway is Boston's sports heartland. Home of the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. Catch a baseball match in person or soak up the lively atmosphere on game day. Discover the best spots to watch the game. Or recharge your batteries exploring the Emerald Necklace, a chain of parks that runs through the area. You can also enjoy world class art on your doorstep at the Museum of Fine Arts.
The neighborhood offers a great selection of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Whatever your taste there is a spot in Fenway for you! There are numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues to choose from too. Read more about our favorite bars in the area. Wandering around Fenway-Kenmore you get a strong sense of community. There are regular local events from farmers markets to festivals. All in all we believe Fenway strikes a great balance and is a fabulous place to call home.
Cambridge - Boston's academic hub
Just across the Charles River, Cambridge is known for its vibrant community and excellent restaurants.
Home to Harvard and MIT, Cambridge oozes flare, with its intellectual vibe, offering a lively social and vibrant art scene. Regular gigs at intimate venues and a mix of bars and restaurants to tempt every price point.
Cambridge appeals to academics, professionals, and those interested in a lively community.
South & North End - for history buffs
If you're looking for a lively, culturally rich neighborhood, South End might be for you. The area oozes historic charm and has a vibrant arts scene. Stroll the residential tree lined streets with beautiful Victorian brownstone properties. The area offers a mix of residential charm and trendy restaurants. It is a great neighborhood to live in if you enjoy a bustling settling with lots of local shops and cafes. Like Back Bay, this area offers a mix of upscale living, with a premium price tag.
Boston's "Little Italy," North End is famous for its narrow streets lined with Italian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries. The small neighborhood packs a punch with a lively atmosphere and is perfect for people who enjoy dining out, exploring historic sites, and being close to the waterfront.