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Deer Island, Boston,MA

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For those considering a move to the southeast part of Boston, Deer Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and peaceful living away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Known primarily for its expansive parklands and scenic coastal views, Deer Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Residents enjoy access to walking trails, picnic spots, and bird-watching opportunities that make the neighborhood feel like a quiet retreat. The area is also home to the Deer Island Waste Water Treatment Plant, a landmark known for its innovative environmental efforts, and visitors can learn about the facility’s role in protecting Boston Harbor through guided tours.

One of the standout attractions in Deer Island is the Deer Island Lighthouse, which adds a charming historical touch to the neighborhood and offers picturesque views of the harbor and Boston skyline. The island’s beaches and open spaces provide ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and leisurely strolls along the waterfront. Despite its tranquil vibe, Deer Island is surprisingly close to downtown Boston, only about a 15 to 20-minute drive away, making it an ideal spot for those who want a more relaxed home base without sacrificing easy access to city amenities and workplaces.

For families and individuals relocating to Deer Island, the neighborhood’s strong sense of community and emphasis on outdoor recreation are major draws. While dining and shopping options are more limited directly on the island, nearby neighborhoods to the northwest of Deer Island offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural venues. This balance of serene island living with convenient access to urban life makes Deer Island a special and appealing place to call home for anyone looking to enjoy the best of both worlds in Boston.

Community Snapshot

Population 127
Density (People/sqml.) 1,268
Median Age 42.4
Married Couples
36%
36% of the population of Deer Island aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
36%
36% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

36% of the Deer Island population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 36% 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

Deer Island neighborhood age breakdown chart

Deer Island demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 127 residents, Deer Island is notably smaller than many other Boston neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,268 people per square mile, Deer Island offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Boston neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 42, 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 Deer Island

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Types of Crime

Deer Island neighborhood age breakdown chart

Deer Island Crime Map

The Deer Island crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

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Home Price $594,400
Median Rent $2,177
People/Household 2.7

Home Price Breakdown

Deer Island neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 19% Own 81%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 51% After 2010 49%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

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Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Deer Island, home prices come in around $594,400, 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 Deer Island 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 $2,177, rental rates in Deer Island 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

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Entertainment

Theatre Arts
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Winthrop Public Library and Museum
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Food & Drink

Letterie's Italian Market
Deli
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Parks

Deer Island Park
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Playground
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Deer Island - MWRA Gate
Bus Stop
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Tafts Ave opp Townsend St
Bus Stop
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Health & Safety

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Safety

Winthrop Fire Department
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Winthrop Police Dept
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Beachmont Veterans Memorial School
15 Everard Street, Revere, MA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Hull High
180 Main Street, Hull, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Revere High
101 School Street, Revere, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Curtis Guild
195 Leyden Street, East Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Excel Academy Charter School
58 Moore Street, East Boston, MA
High School 5 - 11 School Score
Winthrop Middle School
60 Payson Street, Winthrop, MA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Winthrop High School
400 Main Street, Winthrop, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Deer Island 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 Deer Island 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 $34,787
Household Income $162,879
Unemployment 19.1%

Income Breakdown

Deer Island 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 Deer Island, median household incomes average $162,879, 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 can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Deer Island, the unemployment rate is 19%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Deer Island offers a unique lifestyle as it is primarily known for its role as a wastewater treatment facility and is part of the Boston Harbor Islands. While it is not a residential neighborhood, its surrounding areas provide a tranquil, nature-focused environment. Visitors and locals often enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and exploring the natural coastal scenery. The island is a destination for those interested in environmental education and enjoying the outdoors rather than typical urban living.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Deer Island is home to the Deer Island Waste Water Treatment Plant, one of the largest and most important wastewater treatment facilities in the country, which plays a critical role in maintaining Boston Harbor’s water quality. Additionally, the island itself has historical significance, dating back to its use in the 19th century as a quarantine station and later for other municipal purposes. Its surrounding harbor and trails offer scenic views of Boston and nearby harbor islands, making it a noteworthy spot for both history buffs and nature enthusiasts.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Deer Island is accessible primarily by boat and is connected to the mainland by a causeway from Winthrop, Massachusetts. While there are no direct highways or transit lines to the island itself, nearby areas such as Winthrop and East Boston are served by major roads including Route 1A and are accessible via the MBTA Blue Line to downtown Boston. For visitors, ferries and private boats are common ways to reach the island for tours or recreational visits.

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