Watertown Town Photo

Bemis, Watertown Town,MA

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

For anyone considering a move to Watertown, MA, the Bemis neighborhood in the south east part of town offers a charming and welcoming community atmosphere. Known for its tree-lined streets and a mix of classic New England homes alongside modern residences, Bemis strikes a perfect balance between suburban tranquility and urban convenience. Families and young professionals alike appreciate the neighborhood’s peaceful vibe while still being close enough to enjoy the amenities and excitement of nearby areas.

One of Bemis’ standout features is its proximity to the beautiful Bemis Park, a local gem that provides ample green space for outdoor activities, community events, and family gatherings. Residents also enjoy easy access to the Arsenal Mall, which offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options just a short drive away. For those who love history and culture, the nearby Arsenal Yards development combines retail, restaurants, and residential spaces in a vibrant, walkable environment. Plus, the neighborhood’s convenient spots for coffee shops, boutiques, and casual eateries make it easy to enjoy a laid-back weekend without traveling far.

When it comes to commuting, Bemis is a smart choice due to its close proximity to Downtown Watertown, which is just a quick drive or bike ride from the neighborhood. This means residents can effortlessly access the bustling shops, professional offices, and dining experiences that downtown offers. For commuters heading into Boston or other nearby cities, the location also provides straightforward access to major highways and public transportation options. Altogether, Bemis combines a friendly community feel with the convenience of nearby urban attractions, making it an ideal neighborhood for those relocating to Watertown.

Community Snapshot

Population 3,785
Density (People/sqml.) 8,607
Median Age 39.0
Married Couples
52%
52% of the population of Bemis aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Bemis, 26% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 26% 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

Bemis neighborhood age breakdown chart

Bemis 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 3,785 residents, Bemis is notably smaller than many other Watertown Town 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.

Boasting a population density of 8,607, Bemis is more densely populated than many other Watertown Town 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 39, 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 Bemis

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Bemis neighborhood age breakdown chart

Bemis Crime Map

The Bemis 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

? /10
Home Price $715,300
Median Rent $2,233
People/Household 2.3

Home Price Breakdown

Bemis neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 44% Own 56%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 54% After 2010 46%

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 Bemis, home prices come in around $715,300, 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 Bemis 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 $2,233, rental rates in Bemis 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

The Spot Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
O'Some Café
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Gore Place
Museum
min.
min.
turtle studios
Art Gallery
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Pleasant Pizza
Fast Food
min.
min.
Dunkin' Donuts
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

KOKO Bakery
Bakery
min.
min.
Russo's & Sons'
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Bemis Playground
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Behind the Hair
Hairdresser
min.
min.
Mobil Mart
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Pleasant St @ Bridge St
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Pleasant St @ Bridge St
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
min.
CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Waltham Dental
Dentist
min.
min.
Newton Dentistry
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

Watertown Police
Police
min.
min.
Newton Fire Department
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Newton North High
457 Walnut Street, Newtonville, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Perkins School For The Blind
175 N Beacon St, Watertown, MA
High School PK - 12 School Score
Lincoln-Eliot
191 Pearl Street, Newton, MA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Atrium School
69 Grove St, Watertown, MA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Watertown High
50 Columbia Street, Watertown, MA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Cunniff
246 Warren Street, Watertown, MA
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Mt Alvernia High School
790 Centre St, Newton, MA
High School 7 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Bemis 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 Bemis 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

? /10
Income Per Capita $69,614
Household Income $134,447
Unemployment 2.5%

Income Breakdown

Bemis Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Bemis, median household incomes average $134,447, 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 strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Bemis, the unemployment rate is just 2%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

Bemis in Watertown, MA, is known for its charming mix of residential architecture. You will find a variety of single-family homes, many built in the early to mid-20th century, featuring classic New England Colonial and Cape Cod styles. There are also some newer townhouse developments and condominiums, offering options for different preferences and budgets. The neighborhood maintains a cozy, suburban feel with tree-lined streets and well-kept yards.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Bemis is home to some notable landmarks that reflect Watertown's rich history. One key landmark is the Bemis Hall, a historic building often used for community events and meetings. Additionally, the nearby Arsenal Park, part of the historic Watertown Arsenal site, offers insight into the area's industrial past while providing green space for recreation. These sites contribute to Bemis’ unique character and historical significance within the city.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Bemis benefits from convenient access to major transportation routes. The neighborhood is close to Interstate 95 (also known as Route 128), which provides easy access to Boston and other parts of the Greater Boston area. Public transit options include the nearby MBTA bus lines that connect Bemis residents to Watertown Square and further into Boston. For rail access, the Arsenal commuter rail station is within a short drive, making commuting straightforward for residents.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 85 67 79 82 69 80 58
Unlock to see 75 33 82 77 58 38 38 86
Unlock to see 68 39 85 87 73 54 77 86
Bemis Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 69 50 50 50 43 72 31
Unlock to see 36 42 41 39 76 76 55 42
Unlock to see 25 58 72 76 40 69 45 50

Other Neighborhoods in Watertown Town, MA