Deciding to move to Boston is one thing, but settling to find the safest place to stay in the city is another. Sure, the city has a lot of stunning historic places, world-class universities like Harvard and MIT, and most especially a vibe that perfectly blends old-school tradition with a modern feel. But bear in mind that not all Boston neighborhoods are the same, and some are just better for peace of mind. Perhaps you’re a student hunting for a spot near campus, a family looking for a quiet living, or a young professional who desires a mix of fun and security, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we have uncovered the safest neighborhoods in Boston and other interesting facts about these areas. Just make sure you read to the end and find the safest parts for your stay!
Is Boston Safe?
Is Boston a safe city? Boston ranks as the 10th safest large city in the United States but that’s among cities with over 300,000 residents. In 2023. The murder rate in the city was just 5.29 per 100,000 residents which is lower than most of the nation’s 50 largest cities. When compared to places like New York City or Los Angeles, Boston’s crime index is much lower. It’s only 4% above the national average. That’s pretty impressive for a bustling city of over 675,000 people.
Safest Neighborhoods in Boston
Brookline
Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
Crime Rate: 1,314 per 100,000 residents (significantly lower than the national average)
Population: 62,822
Average Rent: $2,804
Average Home Price: $1,233,100
Best Known For: Upscale stores, cozy village pubs, beautiful estates, and being the birthplace of John F. Kennedy.
According to Niche, Brookline is the No. 1 safest neighborhood in Boston. It’s quite a charming neighborhood that’s just minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Boston. The town is also rich in history as it’s been around since the 1600s and is even the birthplace of John F. Kennedy. Although it was originally part of Boston, it became a different town in 1705 and has maintained its small-town charm, despite being surrounded on three sides by the city. You’ll find a peaceful, safe environment here where it’s easy to walk or bike to most places, and the T (Boston’s subway) makes trips into the city quick and simple. Overall, the area is a fantastic place to grow up, build friendships, and enjoy the quieter side of life while still being connected to the city.
West Roxbury
Safety Score (According to Niche): A-
Crime Rate: Generally considered low and safe
Population: 27,809
Average Rent: $2,089
Average Home Price: $724,222
Best Known For: Civic activism, youth programs, and a family-friendly suburban vibe
West Roxbury is one of the safest neighborhoods in Boston MA when you think about it. The neighborhood is like a breath of fresh air for anyone craving a suburban escape within Boston. It is nestled in the city’s southwest corner and with tree-lined streets, charming ranch houses, and spacious single-family homes, it’s easy to see why families and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle are drawn here. Additionally, the neighborhood is big on community; it’s the kind of place where people genuinely care about one another. Plus, public transportation makes commuting a breeze, so you’re never too far from the action of the city.
Brighton
Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
Crime Rate: 2,559 per 100,000 residents (slightly higher than the national average)
Population: 36,805
Average Rent: $2,209
Average Home Price: $729,183
Best Known For: Affordable pubs, ethnic restaurants, and a lively mix of modern and historic attractions.
A place like Brighton is part of the good neighborhoods to live in Boston. You have a lot to gain if you’re a prospective student at Boston University or Boston College. The town has a youthful and energetic atmosphere that makes it an ideal choice for those who want to live near the excitement of Boston without the big city price tag. You’ll find plenty of cozy bars, local coffee spots, and parks to enjoy some downtime with friends. With lots of Victorian buildings and charming streets, the town truly offers a perfect blend of the old and new.
Hyde Park
Safety Score (According to Niche): B
Crime Rate: 1,852 per 100,000 residents (lower than the national average)
Population: 34,249
Average Rent: $2,023
Average Home Price: $576,021
Best Known For: Peaceful, suburban vibe. Easy transportation. Family-friendly neighborhood
If you plan on raising kids, Hyde Park is a good and safe town to live in Boston. It has a calm and cozy vibe with a tight-knit community. The area also has a rich history that dates back to the 1600s. That explains its unique mix of old-world charm and modern suburban life. You’ll see lots of historic buildings and mid-century homes. Another reason Hyde Park is a safe area in Boston is that the transportation options are plentiful so you can easily commute across Boston.
Jamaica Plain
Safety Score (According to Niche): A
Crime Rate: 1,852 per 100,000 residents (21% safer than the U.S. average)
Population: 34,107
Average Home Price: $826,196
Average Rent: $2,422
Best Known For: Bohemian vibe, lush parks, and a culturally diverse community
Jamaica Plain is one of the safest areas around Boston to stay especially if you’re moving in as a new family. Niche rated the area as the best place to raise a family. You’ll love how welcoming the residents are. They are a vibrant mix of Latin, Asian, and even Black communities. Additionally, there are restaurants, coffee shops, and parks where you can always have a good time with friends and family. Finally, even the public schools are above average, and the young professionals who work there are more liberal.
South Boston
Safety Score (According to Niche): A
Crime Rate: 2,021 per 100,000 residents (comparable to urban neighborhoods)
Population: 32,075
Average Rent: $2,398
Average Home Price: $832,505
Best Known For: Sandy beaches, historic landmarks like Dorchester Heights, great restaurants, and waterfront relaxation.
South Boston is widely considered as part of the safe places to stay in Boston because of its lively, welcoming, and family-friendly neighborhood. Also affectionately called, “Southie,” this town is certainly the place that appeals to different lifestyles. You’ll get restaurants, pubs, and outdoor spaces to hang out and waterfront if you’re a nature lover. Finally, bear in mind that the town retains landmarks like Dorchester Heights which is tied to the Revolutionary War era.
Newton Upper Falls
Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
Crime Rate: Low, making it a peaceful and secure area to live.
Population: 5,697
Average Rent: $2,179
Average Home Price: $1,115,297
Best Known For: Hemlock Gorge, Echo Bridge, and Charles River.
Newton Upper Falls is among the safe neighborhoods in Boston because it has a small-town charm and is highly accessible. On moving in, you’ll be met with a diverse and friendly community. So, get ready to witness a strong sense of neighborliness. Also, the proximity to Boston is just 10 miles away. For nature lovers, you can enjoy walking along Echo Bride or exploring Charles River’s beauty.
Roxbury
Safety Score (According to Niche): B-
Crime Rate: Higher than Boston’s average, though the area is improving with ongoing revitalization efforts.
Population: 42,355
Average Rent: $1,302
Average Home Price: $655,095
Best Known For: Boston’s African American community, jazz, civil rights heritage, and community spirit.
You’ll find Roxbury interesting if you’re an African-American. The community is large and they all look out for each other. It’s the kind of place you’ll feel connected and welcomed. There are also a lot of changes happening in the area that make it part of the safe neighborhoods in Boston. New housing, businesses, and parks are beginning to pop up, giving the place a fresh start with lots of positive energy. The green spaces here are also a big deal. Parks like Malcolm X Park and the beautiful community gardens give families and friends a place to hang out, play, or just enjoy some quiet time outdoors. On top of that, there are so many resources close by—great schools, libraries, and community centers. These give kids and families opportunities to thrive and stay busy in the best ways.
Allston-Brighton
Safety Score (According to Niche): A+
Crime Rate: 2,920 per 100,000 residents
Population: 8,858
Average Rent: $2,273
Average Home Price: $518,861
Best Known For: A vibrant student hub with a bohemian vibe, diverse dining, and lively nightlife.
Students will enjoy Allston-Brighton a lot because it’s where the energy of youth meets the charm of Boston’s history. At least, schools like Boston University and Harvard are close by and the rents in the area are quite affordable. You can easily find safe student apartments in Boston to stay in this area with uhomes.com. One of the best things about Allston-Brighton is its diversity. You’ll find a mix of people from all walks of life, bringing their unique flavors and styles to the neighborhood. Stroll down the main streets, and you’ll pass bohemian shops, eclectic cafes, buzzing music clubs, and bars perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Roslindale
Safety Score (According to Niche): A-
Crime Rate: 2,430 per 100,000 residents
Population: 29,044
Average Rent: $2,077
Average Home Price: $632,793
Best Known For: A charming “garden suburb” with a neighborhood feel, diverse community, and easy access to nature and city amenities.
Roslindale, fondly called “Rozzie” by the locals feels like a breath of fresh air, making it one of the safest areas in Boston to stay. The neighborhood is tucked away on Boston’s southwest side with the streets filled by cozy single-family homes, where everything you need is just a short walk or drive away. If you’re into nature, you’ll adore the Arnold Arboretum. It’s a stunning green space where you can take a peaceful stroll, have a picnic, or just soak up some fresh air. That explains why the area earned the nickname as Boston’s “garden suburb.” It’s such a slice of tranquility right in the city.
Boston MA Crime Rate
In general, Boston’s crime rate reaches 4% on national average, which is relatively lower compared to other cities of its size. Here are the details on each specific crime rate in Boston MA:
| Boston MA Crime Statistics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type of Crime | Reported Incidents | Boston/100k People |
| Murder | 44 | 6.9 |
| Rape | 176 | 27.5 |
| Robbery | 770 | 120.5 |
| Burglary | 1,213 | 189.9 |
| Assault | 2,965 | 464.1 |
| Violent crime | 3,955 | 619 |
| Theft | 9,116 | 1,426.80 |
| Property crime | 11,514 | 1,802 |
Most of the neighborhoods in the city are known for their safe and family-friendly vibes. Their strong community ties also make crime impenetrable. If you’re a student, a young professional, or a family moving to Boston, finding safe and reliable housing can feel like a big task.
That’s where platforms like uhomes.com come in. We specialize in connecting you to high-quality, verified housing that suits your needs and budget. Our rental experts are always on hand to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect place to call home.
Safest Neighborhoods In Boston In A Nutshell
Wrapping it up, the safest neighborhoods in Boston include Roxbury, Brookline, Brighton, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, South Boston, West Roxbury, Roslindale, Allston-Brighton, and Newton Upper Falls. Each neighborhood we’ve highlighted has its own unique vibe worth exploring. You might fall in love with the bohemian charm of Jamaica Plain or enjoy the peaceful suburban lifestyle of Hyde Park. If waterfront views and a lively atmosphere are more your style, South Boston has you covered. At the end of the day, finding the safest neighborhood is all about understanding your priorities and what feels like home to you.
FAQ on Safest Neighborhoods In Boston
Is Dorchester Boston safe?
Most areas of Dorchester are safe with a strong sense of community. However, some places, like the Bowdoin/Geneva district or the 68-block section, have higher violent crime rates.
How safe is Boston?
Boston is one of the safest cities on the East Coast, with low violent crime rates and a respectful, academic vibe. While safety isn’t usually a concern, staying cautious and using common sense is always a good idea.
Is Downtown Boston safe at night?
Downtown Boston is generally safe at night with low violent crime rates. However, it’s always best to stay in well-lit, busy areas and be mindful of your surroundings.
Is Chinatown, Boston safe?
Chinatown in Boston is generally safe, but like any area, it’s important to stay aware. While violent crime is lower than the national average, you may encounter homeless individuals or drug-related issues near the train station. The area can also feel a bit run-down, so it’s a good idea to stay cautious, especially in less busy spots.
