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Beacon Hill, Boston,MA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to Beacon Hill offers a charming blend of historic elegance and modern city living that makes it one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Boston. Known for its cobblestone streets, gas-lit lanterns, and beautifully preserved Federal-style rowhouses, Beacon Hill radiates a timeless appeal. Residents enjoy strolling past the iconic brick sidewalks while admiring the unique architecture that dates back to the early 19th century. The neighborhood is also home to the famous Massachusetts State House, a stunning landmark with its gleaming golden dome, which adds a regal touch to the area and serves as a reminder of Boston’s rich history.

One of the great standouts of Beacon Hill is its close-knit community atmosphere combined with convenient access to numerous attractions and amenities. The area boasts picturesque parks like the serene Boston Common and the adjacent Public Garden, perfect for relaxing walks, picnics, or seasonal activities. Boutique shops, cozy cafes, and acclaimed restaurants line the charming streets, offering everything from gourmet dining to casual bites. For those interested in culture, the neighborhood is dotted with art galleries and historic sites, making it easy to immerse yourself in Boston’s vibrant local scene. It’s also a fantastic place for book lovers, thanks to the famous Brattle Book Shop just a short walk away.

For anyone relocating to Boston, Beacon Hill’s proximity to Downtown is a major perk, lying just to the northwest of the city’s bustling heart. The neighborhood offers quick access to public transportation options, making commuting to work or exploring other parts of Boston both easy and efficient. Despite being so close to Downtown, Beacon Hill maintains a peaceful, almost village-like feel that is a refreshing contrast to the busy city center. This balance of tranquility and convenience makes it an ideal spot for professionals, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the best of Boston living with a touch of historic charm.

Community Snapshot

Population 8,224
Density (People/sqml.) 27,568
Median Age 36.4
Married Couples
31%
31% of the population of Beacon Hill aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
6%
6% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 31% of the Beacon Hill population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 6% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Beacon Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Beacon Hill demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 8,224, the number of residents who reside in Beacon Hill is about average in size compared to other Boston neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Boasting a population density of 27,568, Beacon Hill is more densely populated than many other Boston neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Beacon Hill

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Beacon Hill neighborhood age breakdown chart

Beacon Hill Crime Map

The Beacon Hill crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $1,264,200
Median Rent $2,675
People/Household 1.6

Home Price Breakdown

Beacon Hill neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 70% Own 30%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 44% After 2010 56%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Beacon Hill, home prices come in around $1,264,200, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Beacon Hill can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,675, rental rates in Beacon Hill are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Tatte
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Acorn Street
Attraction
min.
min.
Nichols House Museum
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

The Sevens
Bar
min.
min.
Felcaros Pizzeria
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Nourish Your Soul
Health Food
min.
min.
DeLuca's Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Louisburg Square
Park
min.
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Boston African-American National Historic Site
Park
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Shops

Beacon Hill Market
Convenience Store
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Rouvalis Flowers
Florist
min.
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Beacon St opp Walnut St
Bus Stop
min.
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Charles St @ Beacon St
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

Charles/MGH
Transit Station
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Park Street
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Wang Ambulatory Care Center
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

Dental Arts of Boston
Dentist
min.
min.
Oral Design Boston
Dentist
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min.

Safety

Boston Fire Department Engine 4, Ladder 24
Fire Station
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Boston Fire Department Engine 4, Ladder 24
Fire Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
William Mckinley
90 Warren Avenue, Boston, MA
High School 1 - 12 School Score
Park Street School
67 Brimmer St, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
The Newman School
247 Marlborough St, Boston, MA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Josiah Quincy
885 Washington Street, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
The Advent School
15 Brimmer St, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
St John School
9 Moon St, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Boston Adult Academy
20 Church St, Back Bay, MA
High School 11 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Beacon Hill combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Beacon Hill can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $125,479
Household Income $148,017
Unemployment 3.2%

Income Breakdown

Beacon Hill Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Beacon Hill, median household incomes average $148,017, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Beacon Hill, the unemployment rate sits at around 3%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Beacon Hill offers a charming, historic lifestyle that blends old-world Boston elegance with modern urban conveniences. Residents enjoy picturesque cobblestone streets, gas-lit lanterns, and brick row houses that create a quaint, intimate atmosphere. The neighborhood is known for its walkability, proximity to the Boston Common and Public Garden, and access to boutique shops, cafes, and fine dining. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, culture, and a slower-paced yet sophisticated city living experience.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Beacon Hill is rich in history and architecture, home to many notable landmarks including the Massachusetts State House, with its iconic golden dome. The neighborhood also features historic sites like the Louisburg Square, one of Boston’s most exclusive residential areas, and the Nichols House Museum, which offers insight into 19th-century Bostonian life. The historic Charles Street is lined with antique shops, art galleries, and classic eateries, making it a cultural hub within the neighborhood.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Beacon Hill is very well-connected via public transit, with the MBTA’s Red Line running through the neighborhood at the Charles/MGH station, providing quick access to downtown Boston and beyond. The Green Line is also accessible nearby at Park Street Station, just on the edge of the Boston Common. While there are no major highways cutting directly through Beacon Hill, Interstate 93 and the Massachusetts Turnpike (I-90) are a short drive away, offering convenient routes for commuters.

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