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Back Bay, MA
Back Bay · Suffolk County · MA 02116
Updated June 20, 2026 · Would You Live There? · Covers: Back Bay, Boston
Good for now
Verdict
$1.5M
Median Price
100/100
Walk Score
7.5/10
Schools
6 min
to Boston, MA
Score Breakdown
FAffordability
15/100
D+Safety
55/100
BSchools
75/100
FQuietness
30/100
ACommute
100/100
AWalkability
100/100
WYLT Score63/100
Our Take
Back Bay offers unbeatable walkability, top restaurants, and easy access to downtown, but the cost of living is sky‑high and space is limited. It’s great for young professionals who can afford it, but families and retirees may find it too pricey and cramped.
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The Good
- ✓Walk Score 100, perfect for walking or biking
- ✓Excellent transit options and close to major employers
- ✓High‑end dining, nightlife, and cultural spots
- ✓Historic charm and iconic architecture
Real Talk
- !Median home value over $1.4M and rent >$2,200/month Very limited affordable housing and small units Heavy traffic congestion during rush hours High property taxes and insurance costs
- $High property taxes due to city rates
- $Expensive homeowner’s insurance for city properties
- $Utilities and parking fees can add up
Best For
Young professionalsStudents and recent gradsNightlife and dining enthusiastsCommuters to downtown Boston
Risk Snapshot
Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityModerate
Price volatilityModerate
Crime & Safety
Back Bay, MA
D+
Safety grade
Safety score55 / 100
High riskVery safe
⚠️Violent Crime
Moderate3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (3.7)11+
5% higher than the national average
🔒Property Crime
Moderate19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr
0Natl avg (19.5)59+
2% higher than the national average
Verify with real-time data
City-Data stats →From Residents
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