Dorchester

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Dorchester, MA

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A premier destination just south of downtown Boston

Bustling Historic Coastal University Public Transit

As Boston’s largest neighborhood, Dorchester offers a diverse selection of scenery, entertainment, restaurants, and opportunities just five miles south of Downtown Boston. With unbeatable access to Boston’s multitude of attractions and amenities, Dorchester provides a premier location for commuters and big-city lovers.

Students renting in Dorchester have come to the right place. Apartments in this neighborhood have convenient access to Boston’s branch of the University of Massachusetts and related historic attractions like the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. Families looking for a respite from the bustle of big city living can stroll the nature trails along the Neponset River Reservation or attend family-friendly community events at neighboring Dorchester Park.

Adventure with family and friends to the historic Franklin Park Zoo, try one of the many delicious local restaurants, explore boutique shops, and enjoy various entertainment venues around this coastal town. Luckily for locals, this neighborhood is one of the less expensive areas in Boston. How much does it cost to live in Dorchester? Average rent comes in at $3,017, which is about 8% less expensive than average city rent. Luxury apartments are abundant in Dorchester, as are standard apartment and condo rentals- there’s something for every renter in this lively Boston neighborhood!

Explore the City

Dorchester Heights monument

View of Boston’s South End

Southern Boston’s skyline

Rent Trends

As of December 2024, the average apartment rent in Dorchester, MA is $2,452 for a studio, $2,377 for one bedroom, $2,860 for two bedrooms, and $3,892 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Dorchester has increased by 7.0% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$2,377/month
667 Sq Ft
House
$6,200/month
3,955 Sq Ft
Condo
$3,711/month
4,092 Sq Ft
Townhome
$4,145/month
2,375 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Dorchester, MA

Transportation

81

Very Walkable

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

If you enjoy walking, you’ll enjoy renting in this area! It’s a very walkable neighborhood.

68

Good Transit

out of 100 TransitScore® Rating

The area around this property has good transit with many nearby transportation options.

65

Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • Squantum Point Park
  • Dorchester Shores Reservation
  • Lower Neponset River Trail
  • Franklin Park Zoo
  • Castle Island

Airports

  • General Edward Lawrence Logan International

Top Apartments in Dorchester

Houses for Rent in Dorchester

Property Management Companies in Dorchester, MA

Living in Dorchester

Cost

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Renters living in Dorchester pay an average of $3,017/month to rent an apartment, compared to the Boston city average of $3,284. City dwellers exploring houses for rent in Dorchester can expect to pay around $3,114/month. For those looking to buy, the average house is valued at $695,000, compared to the city average of $768,000.

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