South Boston:

Neighborhood Information

Previously an insular, prideful and overwhelming low-income community unwelcoming--or occasionally even hostile to "outsiders" either just visiting or especially moving in--recently South Boston or Southie has shed much of that image. Bordered by Boston Harbor, Dorchester and downtown Boston, its quick access to the financial zone via bus and the MBTA Red Line has encouraged many single professionals from other communities to call it home. Although South Boston still contains an abundance of housing projects, mostly contained within certain sections, numerous apartments have been refurbished to accommodate the wants of higher income individuals. A few luxury apartments and condominiums have also appeared. Restaurants, drinking establishments and other businesses that cater to higher income residents have also sprouted up in recent years. Previously a relatively safe neighborhood for its residents compared to other low-income and urban areas, many now feel comfortable walking alone nocturnally.


And South Boston has great aspects other neighborhoods lack. Carson Beach on Dorchester Bay is a beautiful and clean place to swim with a great view of UMASS Boston. Folks even travel from distant towns to swim there. And close to Carson Beach is Castle Island, an unrivaled venue for a stroll with your fury best friend, ocean views and watching jets land at Logan Airport. Connected to the mainland in the 1930s, Castle Island is also the site of Fort Independence dating to the 19th century, although there has been a fortification there protecting Boston since 1634. It also features benches and fishing piers. And you don't have to worry if the seals that occasionally can be seen swimming just offshore eat the fish you were hoping to catch. That's because you can grab some hot dogs in the restaurant at the site's entrance.


Although South Boston still lacks a large supermarket, there is one within a huge shopping mall just past its border with Dorchester. With a resident parking sticker, parking is relatively easy, unless you are trying to park late at night.