Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Allston, MA
Thinking about moving to Allston, MA? This vibrant Boston neighborhood is home to about 24,000 residents, with a youthful median age and a diverse, international community. Expect a higher cost of living, with median home prices at $715,000 and average 2-bedroom rents around $2,350. Allston offers robust public transit options, strong educational opportunities, and a dynamic urban lifestyle, but keep in mind its mostly rental housing market and moderate crime rates. With major hospitals nearby, 58% sunny days, and easy access to leading colleges, Allston is ideal for students, young professionals, and anyone seeking city energy and convenience.
Demographics - Allston, MA
Demographics - Allston, MA
Allston is a densely populated neighborhood with about 24,000 residents, a youthful median age of 27.6, and a vibrant mix of ethnicities, including a significant Asian community. Over a quarter of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting the area's international character. The community skews slightly male and is known for its diverse, dynamic atmosphere.
Population:
24,000
Density:
17,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
27.6
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
26.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
56.2%
Black:
5.4%
Asian:
23.5%
Others:
14.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Allston, MA?
Allston has a high cost of living, with a median home price of $715,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment around $2,350. Everyday expenses like groceries and transportation are above the national average, making budgeting essential for new residents. While utility and healthcare costs are moderately elevated, the neighborhood's urban amenities and location often justify the premium.
Median House Value:
$715,000
Gross Rent:
$2,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$880
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
144.0
Grocery:
123.0
Housing:
188.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
130.0
Health Care:
118.0
Miscellaneous:
112.0
Crime
Is Allston, MA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Allston are moderate for an urban area, with a chance of property crime at about 1 in 45 and violent crime at 1 in 342. The overall crime index suggests residents should stay aware, but many find the area feels safe with typical city precautions. Community involvement and local policing contribute to maintaining a livable environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
293
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,210
Crime Index:
2,503
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 342
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Allston, MA year-round?
Allston experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, comfortable summers reaching highs in the mid-80s. The area enjoys about 58% sunny days and nearly 45 inches of annual rainfall, offering a balance of clear and rainy days. Seasonal changes provide variety, making the neighborhood appealing to those who enjoy both winter and summer activities.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
37°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Allston's residents have a median household income of about $54,800, with a notable student and young professional presence. The community is highly educated, with nearly 70% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and many rely on public transit for commuting. While the poverty rate is higher than average, the neighborhood is known for its energetic, diverse, and urban lifestyle.
Median Income:
$38,500
Household Income:
$54,800
Family Income:
$68,200
Per Capita Income:
$31,200
Income Male:
$40,400
Income Female:
$36,100
Poverty Rate:
28.5%
Non English Speakers:
26.5%
Rent:
$2,350
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
38.2%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.0%
Bachelors or More:
69.5%
Education
How are the schools in Allston, MA?
Allston offers a range of educational opportunities, including public and private schools like Gardner Pilot Academy and St. Anthony School, as well as proximity to top universities such as Harvard and Boston University. The neighborhood boasts strong educational attainment, with nearly 70% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Its location and resources make it a popular choice for students and families alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Gardner Pilot Academy
Street:
30 Athol St
Phone:
617-635-8365
Students:
440
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Anthony School
Street:
43 Holton St
Phone:
617-254-5946
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Harvard University (Allston Campus)
City:
Boston
State:
MA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
31,000
Name:
Boston University
City:
Boston
State:
MA
Distance:
1 mile
Students:
34,000
Healthcare
Allston offers excellent access to healthcare, with major hospitals such as St. Elizabeth's Medical Center and Boston Medical Center nearby and a high physician-to-resident ratio. Over 95% of residents have health insurance, supporting strong community well-being. The area’s healthcare infrastructure is robust, making it convenient for families and individuals alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
St. Elizabeth's Medical Center
Address:
736 Cambridge St, Brighton, MA 02135
Phone:
(617) 789-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Boston Medical Center
Address:
1 Boston Medical Center Pl, Boston, MA 02118
Phone:
(617) 638-8000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.3%
Health Care Index:
81.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Allston, MA?
Allston’s housing market is primarily rental-focused, with only about 13.5% owner-occupied units and a median home price of $715,000. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment stands at $2,350, and the rental vacancy rate is moderate at 7.2%. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making the area attractive for both renters and investors.
Median Home Price:
$715,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
13.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles services at the conveniently located Boston branch on Blackstone Street. The DMV provides all standard licensing, registration, and vehicle services, with information and appointments available online. This makes managing transportation needs straightforward for Allston locals.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109
Phone:
1-857-368-8000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.