Dorchester

Boston's Largest Area
Dorchester is one of Boston’s largest neighborhoods. Originally, Dorchester was not a part of Boston but considered its own separate town. In 1630, Dorchester was founded by Puritans who emigrated from Dorchester, England, thus earning its name. It was annexed by Boston in the year of 1870, which is when Dorchester experienced a large growth in population. Dorchester nowadays is known for being home to a diverse population, with many of its members playing active roles in political groups. The Neponset River Reservation is a popular location for enjoying the outdoors - where residents go fishing, hiking, kayaking, walking trails, and bird-watching. It is also home to Franklin Park, a large section of Boston’s Emerald Necklace, with a golf course, 500 acres of green space, and a zoo.

Dorchester also has plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. With fantastic ratings and online recommendations from the locals, it is easy to find a perfect spot. Restaurants in the area include Tropical Island, Minina Cafe, Cesaria, Pho Le Restaurant, and Yuen B.B.Q. Bars include Twelve Ben's Inc, JJ's Irish Pub & Grille, Fireside Tavern, and The Jeanie Johnston Pub. Dorchester is perfect for people wanting to enjoy neighborhood living, with plenty of attractions to enjoy.
What Dorchester Residents
Think About Their Apartments
overall
8.0
value
7.0
amenities
8.0
social
7.0
management
8.0
Median rents in Dorchester
Studio
$
2,025
1 Bedroom
$
2,160
2 Bedroom
$
2,300

Living in
Dorchester

Diverse
Quiet
Community
Urban
Culture
Nature
Attractions
Dorchester — 7.6/10 Rating (based on 12 neighborhood reviews)
Close to grocery store and shopping don’t need a car the bus takes you right to school. Not too far is Mass ave but you never see that by the apartment
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Andi
Not the best neighborhood. Although it is conveniently close to the south bay center (with grocery, target, home depot, tj maxx, marshalls, best buy, clothing and shoe stores), it is about a 10-20 minute walk to the area in which many homeless people and drug addicts hang out on the streets. They mind their own business for the most part if you mind yours. I've never personally felt threatened by this but it can be scary for some people. The building is also next door to Dorchester Brewing Company which is a cool place. The building is pet and family friendly but the sidewalks are littered with glass, and sometimes needles so I don't like talking my dog for walks near my building. I see many families walking around and there is a playground down the street
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Columbia Flats
So close to the city by car, but feels far away. The residents are mostly adults/families and not so much college kids (on my side of Dorchester at least). I can’t walk to a good restaurant, grocery store, bar, dog park, etc.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
425 Quincy St
Quiet neighborhood not much to do but eveyhtjng is close by
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Peninsula
Very good. Your package can be stolen and some mice problems.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Harbor Point on the Bay Apartments
The neighborhood around the apartment is fine
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7
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Harbor Point on the Bay Apartments
Dorchester is a little bit away from the New England Law area but Andrew Station is only a 10 minute walk away from me to take the T and Uber's are always in the area if you want to take that route instead.
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Andi
Dorchester has a ton of great restaurants. It is safe despite its reputation.
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Reviewed by
5
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Harbor Point on the Bay Apartments
The area where the apartment is located is great. However, there are a few areas in Dorchester that are not as safe so you have to learn which areas are best to be in. Going to and from the T stop is close and it is a safe walk. There is some stores that are also walkable and you feel safe going there alone.
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8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
53 Whitten St
Quite Neighbourhood
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Reviewed by
10
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Harbor Point on the Bay Apartments
Great place to stay
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Reviewed by
9
/10
Neighborhood Rating
Harbor Point on the Bay Apartments
Wish it could be safer! Sketchy sometimes
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Reviewed by
8
/10
Neighborhood Rating
The Andi


Getting to Know
Dorchester

Neighborhood Boundaries
East to West Boundaries: Glenway St to Neponset River
North to South Boundaries: Melnea Cass Blvd to Neponset River
dining
Antonio’s Pizzeria
Banh Mi Ba Le
Fiskie’s Cafe
The Avenue Grille & Pizzeria
grocery
Star Market
convenience
Rite Aid
fitness
Savin Hill Yoga
parks
Joe Moakley Park
Savin Hill Park
coffee
FunTea Cafe
Starbucks
Sugar Bowl Cafe
bus
16/8 (bus)
rail
Red Line (metro)

Best Apartments
in Dorchester

The Andi

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Hub25
Studio $2,030
1 Bed $2,368
2 Beds $3,150

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35 Howell St

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The Peninsula
Studio $1,976
1 Bed $2,206
2 Beds $3,301

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Baker Chocolate Factory Apartments
Studio $1,690
1 Bed $1,810
2 Beds $2,095

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114 Boston St
3 Beds $1,875
4 Beds $1,725

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