Charlestown

Boston, MA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$1,050,000 (Q2 2025 median)
Median Home Price
88 (Very Walkable)
Walkability Score
Public schools are rated average to above average; Warren-Prescott is particularly sought after by families.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Charlestown is bordered by the Charles River to the west and south, the Mystic River to the north, and Somerville and Cambridge to the northwest. It is connected to downtown Boston via the Charlestown Bridge and the Zakim Bridge.

Zip Codes

02129

Market Data Summary

Price RangeRecent sales range from $925,000 for 2-bed condos to $3,000,000 for luxury townhomes and single-family homes.
Price per Sq Ft$857–$879 (Q2 2025)
Inventory LevelsLow inventory (1.35 months supply, down 16% YoY).

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Historic brick townhomesSingle-family homesLuxury condosLoft conversionsRowhouses

Architectural Styles

FederalGreek RevivalVictorianModern luxury renovations

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesSmall urban lots, often under 0.1 acre; some larger parcels near Monument Square.
Home Age RangeMany homes date from the 1800s to early 1900s; significant renovations and new construction from 2000s–2020s.
Construction QualityGenerally high, especially in renovated or new luxury properties; historic homes may have unique maintenance needs.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Diverse, with a mix of young professionals, families, and long-time residents. Increasing affluence as prices rise.

Community Vibe

Historic, close-knit, and vibrant. Strong neighborhood identity with active civic associations and local events.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Empty nesters
  • Long-term residents

Family Friendly

Yes—parks, playgrounds, and strong community engagement. Popular with families seeking urban amenities and good schools.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Paul Revere Park
  • City Square Park
  • Bunker Hill Monument grounds
  • Navy Yard waterfront

Dining Options

  • Pier 6
  • Brewer's Fork
  • Legal Oysteria
  • Monument Restaurant

Shopping Centers

  • Main Street boutiques
  • Charlestown Navy Yard shops

Local Businesses

  • Zume's Coffee House
  • Warren Tavern
  • Monument Restaurant & Tavern
  • Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Education & Schools

Public schools are rated average to above average; Warren-Prescott is particularly sought after by families.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Warren-Prescott K-8 School
  • Harvard-Kent Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Warren-Prescott K-8 School

High Schools

  • Charlestown High School

Private Schools

  • St. Francis de Sales School
  • Prospect Hill Academy (nearby)

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • MBTA Orange Line (Community College station)
  • MBTA bus routes (92, 93, 89)
  • Charlestown Ferry to downtown Boston

Major Roads

  • I-93
  • Route 1
  • Charlestown Bridge

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–20 minutes to downtown Boston by car or transit; 15–30 minutes to Cambridge/Somerville.
WalkabilityVery walkable; errands and dining easily accessible on foot.
ParkingStreet parking is limited; many homes have permit parking or garage options in newer developments.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Dual-income families
  • Medical/academic professionals
  • Investors

Key Selling Points

  • Historic architecture
  • Proximity to downtown Boston
  • Vibrant dining and parks
  • Strong appreciation potential

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively but allow for negotiation as days on market have increased. Staging and move-in readiness are key to achieving top dollar.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Older homes may need updates or have maintenance issues.

Response Strategy:

Provide inspection reports and highlight recent renovations or system upgrades.

Objection: Limited parking options.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize walkability, transit access, and available garage/permit options.

Objection: Higher prices compared to some Boston neighborhoods.

Response Strategy:

Showcase appreciation trends, community amenities, and long-term value.

Objection: Noise or congestion near main roads.

Response Strategy:

Highlight quieter side streets and soundproofing in renovated homes.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong—20% median price growth YoY. Limited inventory and high demand support continued appreciation.

Rental Demand

High—proximity to downtown, universities, and hospitals attracts renters. Luxury rental market is robust.

Buyer Competition

Still competitive, but buyers are more selective and taking longer to make decisions.

Best For

  • Move-up buyers
  • Young professionals
  • Investors seeking appreciation
  • Families valuing urban amenities

Potential Concerns

  • Rising prices may limit affordability
  • Older homes may require renovation
  • Limited inventory increases competition

Professional Recommendations

1

Emphasize historic and lifestyle value in marketing materials.

2

Stage homes to highlight both period charm and modern upgrades.

3

Educate buyers on the competitive landscape and set realistic expectations on pricing and negotiation.

4

Network with local businesses and community groups to build hyperlocal credibility.

5

Stay informed on Navy Yard and Main Street developments to anticipate future value drivers.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • South Boston
  • Beacon Hill
  • North End

Market Positioning

Premium historic neighborhood with strong community and urban convenience.

Competitive Advantages

  • Historic charm with modern amenities
  • Waterfront access
  • Quieter, more residential feel than downtown

Price Comparison

Charlestown's median price is higher than North End, comparable to South Boston, but lower than Beacon Hill.

Investment Metrics

3.5%–4.2% for well-located multifamily or condo units
Cap Rates
3%–4% gross yield typical for 2–3 bedroom units
Rental Yields
High (reflecting strong appreciation and owner-occupant demand)
Price-to-Rent
Modest cash flow; primary value is in appreciation and long-term equity growth.
Cash Flow
Continued above-average appreciation expected due to limited supply and high demand.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Challenging due to price point; best suited for buyers with strong financials or seeking condos.

Move-Up Buyers

Excellent options for those upgrading from smaller condos to townhomes or single-family homes.

Downsizers

Appealing luxury condos with amenities and low maintenance; walkable lifestyle is a draw.

Investors

Strong appreciation and rental demand, but cash flow is modest; best for long-term hold.

Relocators

Proximity to downtown, hospitals, and universities makes Charlestown attractive for professionals moving to Boston.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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