Boston Neighborhoods

Emerson College students live in many neighborhoods that are close to campus.

Emerson College students live in many areas of Boston. The neighborhoods listed below are the most popular; many of them are also close to campus.

• Central and West Boston
• Neighboring Communities
• East and South Boston

Central and West Boston

Back Bay/Beacon Hill (1)
Located just off the Boston Common and Public Garden, this community is rich in landscape and architecture, a satisfying mix of commercial and residential.

Public transportation: Orange Line (Back Bay, Haymarket), Green Line (Copley, Arlington, Haymarket)

10 minutes to campus; within walking distance

Central Boston/North End (1)
This is the oldest neighborhood in Boston, encompassing the Financial District, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, Government Center, the Waterfront, and the culturally diverse North and West Ends, Chinatown, and South Cove.

Public transportation: Orange Line (State, Haymarket, North Station), Green Line (Government Center, Haymarket, North Station), Blue Line (Government Center, Aquarium)

10 minutes to campus; within walking distance

Fenway/Kenmore (1)
Home to Fenway Park, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Museum of Fine Arts, this neighborhood attracts many students, artists, and professionals with its mixture of cultural and educational activities.

Public transportation: Green (E) Line (Symphony), Green (D) Line (Fenway), Green Line (Kenmore), Orange Line (Mass Ave)

15–20 minutes to campus

South End (1)
This neighborhood is tucked between South Boston and Fenway/Kenmore. A blend of ethnic traditions draws culture seekers, artists, and Bostonians who thrive on diversity.

Public transportation: Orange Line (Back Bay, Mass Ave), Green (E) Line (Symphony, Prudential), Silver Line SL4 and SL5

5–15 minutes to campus; within walking distance

Allston-Brighton (5)
This former industrial district along the Charles River is Boston's largest neighborhood. It is home to many college students, young families, and professionals.

Public transportation: Green (B) Line

15–20 minutes to campus

Neighboring Communities

About 30 percent of Emerson students who reside off campus live in the following communities:

Cambridge (6)
This community is home to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Harvard Square is the center of activity in Cambridge and is home to retail shops, historic buildings, offices, and restaurants.

Public transportation: Red Line (Kendall/MIT, Central, Harvard, Porter)

15–20 minutes to campus

Somerville (6)
Home to Tufts University, this community is adjacent to Cambridge and offers quick and easy access to Harvard Square and major shopping areas.

Public transportation: Red Line (Central, Porter, Davis), Green Line (Lechmere) via MBTA busses

15–20 minutes to campus

Watertown (6)
Located west of Boston, this attractive residential community provides high-quality housing and town services.

Public transportation: Red Line (Harvard) via MBTA busses

30–40 minutes to campus

Malden (7)
This culturally diverse community is located northeast of Boston. Formerly a textile manufacturing center, it is now primarily a residential community.

Public transportation: Orange Line (Malden, Oak Grove)

20–25 minutes to campus

Newton (8)
This large residential community is home to Boston College. It is located west of Boston along the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Public transportation: Green (D) Line

30–40 minutes to campus

Brookline (8)
This suburban-style residential community is also home to many Boston College students. Its residents treasure the beauty of its Victorian homes and parks.

Public transportation: Green (C) Line

20–25 minutes to campus

Quincy (9)
This community is located south of Boston and is home to diverse residential neighborhoods. There are many recreational activities available along its shoreline.

Public transportation: Red Line (North Quincy, Wollaston, Quincy Center, Quincy Adams)

20–25 minutes to campus

East and South Boston

East Boston
East Boston (known as “Eastie”) is a strong, family-oriented neighborhood.

Public transportation: Blue Line (Maverick)

15–30 minutes to campus

South Boston (2)
Called "Southie" by its residents, this neighborhood is steeped in rich heritage. Located on a Boston Harbor peninsula, Southie attracts a diversity of people drawn to the beaches, hills, and water views.

Public transportation: Red Line (Broadway, Andrew)

20–30 minutes to campus

Public transit info courtesy of Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority