Boston, MA 02116 · 02199
Back Bay Real Estate
Victorian brownstones, Newbury Street, and the Commonwealth Avenue Mall
Updated
- ZIP codes
- 02116 · 02199
- Getting around
- Green Line at Arlington, Copley, Hynes Convention Center and Prudential; Orange Line and commuter rail at Back Bay Station
- Typical homes
- Brownstone condos, full-service buildings and some single-family townhouses
Back Bay is a Boston neighborhood built on filled tidal land in the 19th century and laid out as an orderly grid of Victorian brownstones along grand, tree-lined avenues, unusual for a city otherwise known for its winding streets.
Commonwealth Avenue and its landscaped mall, the shops and cafés of Newbury Street, Copley Square, the Boston Public Library, and the Charles River Esplanade all sit within its bounds, a mix of residential streets and cultural landmarks.
The Pettengill Group works throughout Back Bay and the surrounding neighborhoods, pairing deep local knowledge with a personalized, boutique approach.
Living in Back Bay
What makes Back Bay special
Grand architecture
Victorian brownstones along Commonwealth Avenue, Marlborough, Beacon, and Newbury Streets, laid out on an orderly grid.
Newbury Street
Eight blocks of boutiques, galleries, salons, and restaurants, one of the most famous shopping streets in the country.
Parks & the Esplanade
The Commonwealth Avenue Mall and the Charles River Esplanade offer green space and riverfront paths right at your door.
Culture & landmarks
Copley Square, the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and the Prudential Center are all within the neighborhood.
Getting around
Highly walkable, with Green Line and Orange Line stations and quick access to downtown and the Financial District.
Central location
Adjacent to the Public Garden and downtown Boston, with easy access across the city.
The Market
Back Bay homes & real estate
Back Bay real estate centers on its Victorian brownstones, most divided into condominiums that range from studios and one-bedrooms to expansive full-floor and duplex residences with high ceilings, bay windows, and period detail. The neighborhood also includes full-service buildings offering concierge, parking, and amenities.
Factors like floor level, elevator access, outdoor space, parking, and building services vary significantly and have a real effect on value. For current Back Bay market conditions and a tailored valuation, get in touch with our team.
Helpful guides: Renting in BostonFirst-time buyer guideHow offers work in MassachusettsMortgage options by property typeSelling a house in Massachusetts
Compare: South End vs. Back Bay
Getting around: Green Line guideOrange Line guide
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is Back Bay known for?
Back Bay is known for its Victorian brownstones, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, Newbury Street shopping, Copley Square, and landmarks such as the Boston Public Library and Trinity Church.
What types of homes are for sale in Back Bay?
Back Bay homes are mostly condominiums within historic brownstones, from studios to full-floor and duplex residences, along with full-service buildings offering concierge, parking, and amenities.
What is there to do in Back Bay?
Back Bay offers Newbury Street shopping and dining, the Charles River Esplanade, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, and cultural landmarks including the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and Copley Square.
How do I buy or sell a home in Back Bay?
Working with a local agent who knows the neighborhood’s buildings and market is key. The Pettengill Group, based nearby in the South End, helps buyers and sellers throughout Back Bay and Greater Boston.
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Home value
Back Bay home values
What could your Back Bay home sell for? A free, personalized estimate.
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South End
Victorian brownstones, a celebrated dining scene, and the SoWa arts district
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Beacon Hill
Federal rowhouses, gas lamps and brick sidewalks from the State House to Charles Street
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Fenway
Fenway Park, the Back Bay Fens and Kenmore Square, with museums along the Fenway
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Bay Village
Federal and Greek Revival rowhouses on a few gaslit blocks by the Theater District
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South End vs. Back Bay
Both are Boston neighborhoods of Victorian brick rowhouses, mostly divided into condos, with the same city tax rate and services. The biggest practical differences are the historic district rules (two different commissions), the transit lines, and the street plan.
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