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South End, Boston,MA

Neighborhood Data
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For those considering a move to the South End, Boston offers an inviting blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy that makes this neighborhood truly special. Known for its beautiful Victorian brownstone buildings and tree-lined streets, the South End exudes a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, young professionals, and artists alike. One of the standouts of this area is its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios scattered throughout, as well as the renowned SoWa Open Market, where you can explore local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious food trucks on weekends. The neighborhood’s commitment to community and creativity is evident in its myriad cultural events and lively street fairs throughout the year.

South End is also a gastronomic delight, boasting some of Boston’s most celebrated restaurants and cozy cafes. From upscale dining experiences at places like Toro or Myers + Chang to casual brunch spots such as The Beehive, food lovers will find no shortage of delicious options. The area is also home to beautiful parks like Peters Park, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a weekend picnic. With its walkable streets and strong sense of local pride, South End offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and quaint neighborhood charm. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate nearby gyms and studios, while families will enjoy the well-regarded public and private schools in the vicinity.

One of the great advantages of living in the South End, southeast of Downtown Boston, is its proximity to the city's core. You can easily reach Downtown in just a few minutes by public transit or a short drive, making commuting or spontaneous trips to the theater, financial district, or shopping hubs incredibly convenient. Residents benefit from excellent access to several MBTA subway lines and bus routes, ensuring smooth connections to other parts of the city. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a night out, explore Boston’s rich history, or simply run errands, South End’s location offers the best of both worlds: a peaceful, friendly neighborhood vibe just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Boston.

South End Demographics

Population 33,085
Density (People/sqml.) 25,156
Median Age 36.8
Married Couples
35%
35% of the population of South End aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
14%
14% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 35% of the South End 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 14% 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

South End neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring South End demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. South End has a population of 33,085, which is larger than many other Boston neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 25,156, South End 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 37, 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 South End

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

South End neighborhood crime breakdown chart

South End Crime Map

The South End 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 $1,074,575
Median Rent $2,203
People/Household 1.9

Home Price Breakdown

South End neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 68% Own 32%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 39% After 2010 61%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year Home Prices YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In South End, home prices come in around $1,074,575, 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 South End 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 $2,203, rental rates in South End 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

Flour
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Jaho Coffee & Tea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Mills Gallery
Art Gallery
min.
min.
Plaza Theaters
Theatre Arts
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Sister Sorel
Bar
min.
min.
The Wine Emporium
Alcohol
min.
min.

Groceries

Ming's Supermarket
Grocery Store
min.
min.
C-Mart
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Blackstone Square
Park
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min.
Playground
Playground
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Shops

Villa Victoria's Market
Convenience Store
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Skip's Barbershop
Hairdresser
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Newton Street - SILVER LINE (Outbound)
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Newton Street - SILVER LINE (Inbound)
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

South End Community Health Center
Clinic
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Boston Medical Center
Hospital
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Health Care

Stuparich & Nouel Dental Associates
Dentist
min.
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Smilebar
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

Boston Police Department, Area D-4
Police
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Boston Fire Department Engine 3
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Kingsley Montessori School
30 Fairfield St, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 6 School Score
Cathedral High School
74 Union Park St, Boston, MA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Snowden International School At Copley
150 Newbury Street, Boston, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Orchard Gardens
906 Albany Street, Roxbury, MA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
City On A Hill Charter Public School Dudley Square
2179 Washington Street, Roxbury, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Josiah Quincy
885 Washington Street, Boston, MA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Carter Developmental Center
396 Northampton Street, Boston, MA
High School 7 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like South End. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in South End can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.