Year after year, Boston is ranked as one of the best cities to live in the country. With its stunning architecture, exceptional amenities, and exclusive educational institutions, being a Bostonian comes with many perks. But if you’ve decided to relocate to the city that beautifully blends the old with the new, you’ll be faced with a challenging task – choosing the right neighborhood.
If you’re like most people, you want to live somewhere safe, with easy access to activities, healthcare, restaurants, and shops. In this case, Beacon Hill and Back Bay are both great options. But which is a better fit for your needs? Let’s take a look at Beacon Hill vs Back Bay, and the most important pros and cons you should consider before making the move.
Pros and cons of living in Beacon Hill
When you think of Boston, what pops into your mind? For many, it’s the gas-lit lanterns, red brick row houses, and cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill – none more iconic than Acorn Street, often called the most photographed street in America.
One of the city’s oldest neighborhoods is where iconic figures like Sylvia Plath and Louisa May Alcott once lived, and for a good reason. Beacon Hill is conveniently located near excellent hospitals and offers access to some of the city’s top private schools, including The Advent School and Park Street School.
Beyond its charming, picture-perfect streets, Beacon Hill has plenty of other things going for it. Here, getting bored won’t ever be a concern, as the neighborhood has a fantastic cultural scene, with many outstanding restaurants, cafés, and foodie hotspots nearby. And the best bit? Whenever you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the Boston Public Garden is just a short stroll away.
Like Back Bay, Beacon Hill is known for its high-end real estate. While there are some new full-service buildings available, most of the housing stock consists of elegant single-family homes. These kinds of properties are often sold for more than $5 million.
While Beacon Hill is often named among the city’s most attractive neighborhoods, it also has its downsides. As one of Boston’s most iconic and historic areas, it can get quite busy, especially near Charles Street and the Boston Common.
Check out our current listings in Beacon Hill to find the perfect property for you.
Advantages and disadvantages of living in Back Bay
Known for its breathtaking waterfront views, iconic brownstones, and top-notch shopping opportunities, Back Bay is one of Boston’s most refined, premier neighborhoods. Spend a day here, enjoying its impressive parks, and you’ll quickly understand what the fuss is all about!
As a resident of Back Bay, you’ll have the city’s main culinary and shopping center just a short stroll away. If you’re not too into shopping, no worries – there are plenty of other exciting and fun things to do. For instance, every Tuesday and Friday, Copley Square hosts a Farmers Market with fresh-baked goods and produce. There’s also the lovely Charles River Esplanade – a go-to walking, running, and biking spot for residents who love to be outdoors.
Compared to Beacon Hill, Back Bay is more commercial and tourist-heavy. However, there are many hidden gems of streets leading away from the main avenues, which have a much more peaceful, residential feel. If you’re thinking about investing in Back Bay’s real estate market, keep in mind that many of the older units lack modern features (unless recently renovated).
Browse our Back Bay listings here and check out our blog on the best streets to live on in Back Bay.
Beacon Hill vs Back Bay: Which neighborhood is the best?
Ultimately, it comes down to your lifestyle and priorities. Beacon Hill will be a perfect choice for those who crave historic charm, a tight-knit community feel, and walkable access to green spaces and cultural attractions.
Prefer to be in the heart of the action, with upscale shopping and dining right at your doorstep? In this case, Back Bay will be your new home.
No matter which neighborhood feels like the right fit, our team at Sarkis Team is here to help! Contact our team today to find your dream home in Boston.
FAQ
Is Beacon Hill or Back Bay more walkable?
Back Bay is a walker’s paradise, where most errands can be done on foot. However, Beacon Hill is also highly walkable, with cobblestone streets and nearby transit.
Which neighborhood is better for families: Beacon Hill or Back Bay?
Beacon Hill tends to feel more like a tight-knit residential neighborhood, which makes it more suited for families than Back Bay, where the community may be less family-focused.
How do property values compare in Beacon Hill vs Back Bay?
Both Beacon Hill and Back Bay are among Boston’s most expensive neighborhoods, but Back Bay generally has higher property values, especially for single-family homes and luxury condos.