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Boston, a coastal city steeped in history and culture, is also a haven for renters seeking walkable neighborhoods. From the charming cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the lively energy of the South End, Boston offers endless pedestrian-friendly locales. Rentals are expensive, though, with one-bedroom units in Boston costing an average of $3,780.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll uncover the most walkable neighborhoods in Boston, providing insights to help you find your perfect fit. So, get ready to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods, where every corner holds a new discovery.
All data sourced March 2024.
1. Beacon Hill
Walk Score: 99
Beacon Hill is the most walkable neighborhood in Boston, with a Walk Score of 99. Renowned for its historic charm, residents and visitors alike can explore the area and take advantage of its walkable layout. Notable attractions include the Massachusetts State House and the famous Boston Common.
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2. Chinatown – Leather District
Walk Score: 99
Chinatown – Leather District has a Walk Score of 99, tied for being the most walkable neighborhood in Boston. There’s a lot to love about the area, from its vibrant food scene to its bustling shopping district. While you’re walking around the neighborhood, check out the beloved Chinatown Gate.
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3. North End
Walk Score: 99
North End is the third most walkable neighborhood in Boston. There are numerous walkable areas and attractions throughout North End, like the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. And if you’re in the mood for an adventure, you’re not far from the Boston Harborwalk.
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4. Bay Village
Walk Score: 98
Bay Village has plenty of amenities a resident might need within walking distance. From Elliot Norton Park to the Charles Playhouse, you’re sure to find something to love. A notable amenity is the Kings Chapel Burying Ground, which is a historic tourist attraction.
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5. Downtown
Walk Score: 98
As the fifth most walkable neighborhood in Boston, Downtown is known for its bustling business district. Consider exploring NOrman B. Leventhal Park or grabbing a bite to eat at the Quincy Market with friends. There are plenty of other amenities in this urban community as well, like the New England Aquarium and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.
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6. South End
Walk Score: 97
South End has a Walk Score of 97, making it the sixth most walkable neighborhood in Boston. Known for its Victorian brownstone homes, residents and visitors can choose from walkable amenities such as the SoWa Open Market and the Boston Center for the Arts. While you’re out, check out the South End Historical Society.
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7. West End
Walk Score: 97
West End is tied as the sixth most walkable neighborhood in Boston. This urban community has quite a few hotspots for residents to visit on foot, including the Museum of Science and the TD Garden. While you’re walking, take a moment to smell the flowers along the Charles River Esplanade.
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8. Back Bay
Walk Score: 97
Back Bay has a Walk Score of 97, making it also tied as the sixth most walkable neighborhood in Boston. There’s a lot to love about the area, from grabbing a bite at one of dozens of restaurants along nearby Newbury Street, to taking a walk at the Boston Public Garden. If you’re up for a longer outing, Back Bay Fens is popular among locals.
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9. Central Maverick Square
Walk Score: 95
The ninth most walkable neighborhood in Boston is Central Maverick Square. Pedestrians can enjoy the variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, like the East Boston Farmers Market and the Piers Park Sailing Center. It’s also easy to walk over to the East Boston Greenway for a great day out.
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10. Fenway
Walk Score: 95
Fenway is the tenth most walkable neighborhood in Boston. Local attractions here include Fenway Park, Northeastern University, and the Museum of Fine Arts, providing residents plenty of places to get together and enjoy their urban community.
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Methodology: Walk Score, a Redfin company, helps people find walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly places to live, rating areas on a scale from 0-100. To calculate a Walk Score for a given point, Walk Score analyzes thousands of walking routes to nearby amenities, population density, and metrics such as block length and intersection density. Points are awarded based on the distance to amenities in each category.