Let the numbers do the talking.
Beacon Hill, MA vs Boston, MA
Beacon Hill, MA vs Boston, MA: What the data shows
Beacon Hill, MA is in Beacon Hill, MA while Boston, MA is in Boston, MA — both in the same state. On home prices, Boston, MA is the more affordable option at $1,002,700 median — $671,100 less than Beacon Hill, MA's $1,673,800. WYLT rates Beacon Hill, MA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Boston, MA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Beacon Hill, MA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Beacon Hill, MA has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Boston, MA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Beacon Hill, MA has Low flood risk and Boston, MA has Low flood risk.
Beacon Hill, MA is the more walkable neighborhood. Beacon Hill, MA scores 100/100 (exceptionally walkable) versus Boston, MA's 65/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Beacon Hill, MA rates 7.5/10 and Boston, MA rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Beacon Hill, MA | Boston, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $1.67M | $1M ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $3K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $170K ✓ Higher income | $74K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 100/100 ✓ More walkable | 65/100 |
| Transit Score | 60/100 | 60/100 |
| Bike Score | 65/100 | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 4 min ✓ Shorter commute | 7 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| Best for | High‑earning professionalsRemote workers who value downtown proximityRetirees seeking low crime and walkability | Young professionalsStudentsFood enthusiasts |
Bottom line
If you prioritize an extremely high quality of life with easy access to Boston, are willing to accept a very high price tag, and value walkability above all else, settle in Beacon Hill. However, if you're on a budget or prioritize a more livable, but still convenient, neighborhood with decent access to Boston, Boston's 02118 area might be a good fit, especially if you're a young professional or commuter. Ultimately, if money is no object and you crave the best Boston has to offer, Beacon Hill is the clear winner, but for most people, Beacon Hill's sticker shock will likely be a turnoff.
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