Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Boston, MA
Considering a move to South Boston, MA? This vibrant waterfront neighborhood of 33,000 boasts a young median age, excellent access to public transit (33%), and acclaimed local schools. Expect a higher cost of living, with median home prices around $790,000 and average rents of $3,000, but also strong household incomes and access to world-class healthcare. Residents enjoy a walkable urban lifestyle, moderate crime rates, and four-season New England weather with 58% sunny days. Explore South Boston's unique mix of city amenities and community spirit as you plan your move.
Demographics - South Boston, MA
Demographics - South Boston, MA
South Boston is home to around 33,000 residents, offering a youthful vibe with a median age of 33.7 and a dense urban feel. The community is predominantly White, but also includes significant Black, Asian, and other minority populations, with nearly one in five residents speaking a language other than English at home. This diversity contributes to a dynamic and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere.
Population:
33,000
Density:
12,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
18.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.1%
Black:
7.8%
Asian:
7.2%
Others:
8.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Boston, MA?
Living in South Boston comes with a higher cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $790,000 and average rents of $3,000 per month. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are also above the national average, making budgeting essential for newcomers. State taxes range from 5% to 9%, so it's important to plan accordingly.
Median House Value:
$790,000
Gross Rent:
$3,000
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$2,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,350
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
9.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
156.0
Grocery:
124.5
Housing:
186.0
Utilities:
119.0
Transportation:
132.0
Health Care:
117.5
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is South Boston, MA a safe place to live?
South Boston experiences moderate crime levels, with violent crimes at 277 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 1,840 per 100,000. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 361, while property crime risk is 1 in 54. Residents generally feel safe, but standard urban precautions are advised.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
277
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,840
Crime Index:
2,117
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 361
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 54
Weather
What is the weather like in South Boston, MA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons in South Boston, ranging from cold winters with average lows of 23°F to warm summers reaching highs of 82°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rain annually and benefits from 58% sunny days, providing a good balance for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes bring variety to daily life and recreation.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
38°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
South Boston is a prosperous community with a median household income of $110,300 and a relatively low poverty rate of 8.4%. A highly educated area, nearly 60% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and about a third of residents use public transportation for their commutes, which average just under 30 minutes. The neighborhood’s diverse backgrounds and strong incomes foster a vibrant local culture.
Median Income:
$59,000
Household Income:
$110,300
Family Income:
$127,000
Per Capita Income:
$67,900
Income Male:
$74,000
Income Female:
$61,000
Poverty Rate:
8.4%
Non English Speakers:
18.5%
Rent:
$3,000
Unemployment Rate:
3.7%
Public Transport Usage:
33.2%
Commute Time:
29.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
59.3%
Education
How are the schools in South Boston, MA?
South Boston offers a range of educational options including well-regarded public schools such as Oliver Hazard Perry and Tynan Elementary, as well as private and parochial alternatives. Higher education is easily accessible, with major universities like UMass Boston and Suffolk University located within just a few miles. The area's strong educational resources make it attractive for families and students alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Oliver Hazard Perry School
Street:
745 E 7th St
Phone:
617-635-8840
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Tynan Elementary School
Street:
650 E 4th St
Phone:
617-635-8497
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.9
Private Schools
Name:
South Boston Catholic Academy
Street:
866 E Broadway
Phone:
617-268-2326
Students:
430
Colleges
Name:
University of Massachusetts Boston
City:
Boston
State:
MA
Distance:
2 miles
Students:
16,200
Name:
Suffolk University
City:
Boston
State:
MA
Distance:
2.5 miles
Students:
7,560
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is excellent in South Boston, served by major hospitals like Boston Medical Center and Tufts Medical Center. With 4.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 97% health insurance coverage, locals can expect high-quality medical care. The area’s healthcare infrastructure supports both everyday wellness and emergency needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Boston Medical Center
Address:
1 Boston Medical Center Pl, Boston, MA 02118
Phone:
(617) 638-8000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Tufts Medical Center
Address:
800 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone:
(617) 636-5000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
4.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
79.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Boston, MA?
The housing market in South Boston is competitive, with a median home price of $790,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $3,000. Home ownership is less common, with less than 35% of residents owning their homes, and the area sees steady home appreciation at 4.1% annually. Rental options remain available, supported by a moderate vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$790,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$3,000
Owner Occupied Rate:
34.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
2.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for South Boston residents are managed by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located at 136 Blackstone St in Boston. The RMV offers licensing, registration, and other essential services both in person and online. For more information or to make appointments, residents can visit the official website or call the main office.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts 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.