South End Boston, Boston, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
25,873
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,224/yr
9.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,057
1.4% year-over-year change

South End Boston population

How many people live in South End Boston

South End Boston is home to 25,873 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of South End Boston locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
25,873
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
12,820
Female
50.4%
13,053
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,820 49.6% 3.5%
Female 13,053 50.4% -1.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South End Boston is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 10.6% are children under 15, then 16.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 34.1% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
10.6%
15 to 24
16.9%
25 to 44
34.1%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
13.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,733 10.6% 7.9%
15 to 24 4,379 16.9% 5.8%
25 to 44 8,815 34.1% -0.7%
45 to 64 6,410 24.8% -2.5%
Over 65 3,535 13.7% 2.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South End Boston, 69.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 19% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 52.2% of locals are Caucasian, 13.4% are African American and 15.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 12.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
69.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
19%
Non-citizens
11.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,060 69.8% 3.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,919 19% -6.3%
Non-citizens 2,894 11.2% 1.9%
Racial breakdown
White
52.2%
Black or African American
13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
15.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
12.2%
Other
6%
Value Percent
White 13,518 52.2%
Black or African American 3,469 13.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 139 0.5%
Asian 4,016 15.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 29 0.1%
Two or more races 3,150 12.2%
Other 1,552 6%

Households in South End Boston

A peek inside South End Boston households

South End Boston has 12,629 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 36.2% are families, while the remaining 63.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
12,629
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
8,058
Family households
4,571
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 8,058 63.8% 3.8%
Family households 4,571 36.2% -1.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South End Boston

The housing landscape of South End Boston

South End Boston's housing consists of 14,057 units, with 2.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,057
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 294 2.1%
1 unit, attached 554 3.9%
2 units 627 4.5%
3 or 4 units 3,132 22.3%
5 to 9 units 2,731 19.4%
10 to 19 units 1,387 9.9%
20 to 49 units 1,376 9.8%
50 or more units 3,944 28.1%
Mobile home 12 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
249
56.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South End Boston

In South End Boston, the median construction year is 1947. About 48.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 6,803 48.4% 2.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 414 2.9% 21.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 777 5.5% 4.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 632 4.5% -5.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,004 7.1% -0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 726 5.2% -12.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 650 4.6% -16.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,066 7.6% -11.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,737 12.4% 17.8%
Built in 2020 or later 249 1.8% 56.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South End Boston occupancy rates

Out of the 12,629 occupied housing units in South End Boston, 31.7% are owner-occupied, while 68.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
12,629
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,621
Owner occupied
4,008
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,621 68.3% 0.9%
Owner occupied 4,008 31.7% 3.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.2%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South End Boston housing costs

Housing costs in South End Boston come to a median of $2,547 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,968.

Median housing costs per month
$2,547/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South End Boston
$1,968/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South End Boston

South End Boston education at a glance

About 20.4% of the population in South End Boston went to high school, while 12.6% pursued college studies. Another 3.3% earned an associate degree and 29.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 28.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,466 6.5% -9.2%
High school diploma 4,611 20.4% 1.9%
College diploma 2,855 12.6% -6.1%
Associate degree 737 3.3% -0.4%
Bachelor's degree 6,592 29.1% 2.0%
Graduate degree 6,373 28.2% 5.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South End Boston

How much people earn in South End Boston

The average annual household income in South End Boston was $172,109 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,224, reflecting a +9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South End Boston
$172,109/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in South End Boston
$98,224/year
9.0% year-over-year change

South End Boston income by age

In South End Boston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $146,179. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $73,269 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $60,130, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,522 in earnings. Overall, 76.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $60,130 13.5%
25 - 44 $146,179 -1.1%
45 - 64 $73,269 3.3%
Over 65 $56,522 7.1%
Above poverty level
18,446
Below poverty level
5,591
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,446 76.7% 1.2%
Below poverty level 5,591 23.3% -2.0%

Employment in South End Boston

Workforce and job types in South End Boston

The job market in South End Boston is powered by 13,704 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 96.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 3.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.3% run their own businesses, 63.2% are employed by private companies, and 7.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,704
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
13,262
Blue collar
442
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 13,262 96.8% 1.9%
Blue collar 442 3.2% -29.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.3%
Private companies
63.2%
Governmental workers
7.8%
Not for profit companies
20.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,132 8.3% 6.0%
Private companies 8,663 63.2% 1.2%
Governmental workers 1,071 7.8% -0.3%
Not for profit companies 2,838 20.7% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
-14.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South End Boston stands at 6.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in South End Boston

How people get around in South End Boston

In South End Boston, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 38.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 40.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,463 38.4% 4.5%
Taxicab 148 1.6% 131.2%
Bus or trolleybus 1,139 12.6% -4.9%
Railroad 95 1% -15.2%
Ferryboat 27 0.3% 28.6%
Bicycle 474 5.2% -2.5%
Walk 3,684 40.8% -5.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in South End Boston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02116 21,978 11,513 $126,496 $245,220
02118 28,946 14,497 $98,224 $178,495
02120 15,283 4,625 $64,289 $87,603

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FAQs about South End Boston demographics 

What is the total population of South End Boston?

South End Boston has a total population of 25,873 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South End Boston?

The gender ratio in South End Boston is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (12,820 residents)
  • 50.4% females (13,053 residents)

What is the median age in South End Boston?

The median age in South End Boston is 34.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in South End Boston?

The age distribution in South End Boston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 10.6% (2,733 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.9% (4,379 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 34.1% (8,815 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (6,410 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.7% (3,535 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South End Boston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South End Boston is as follows:
  • White: 52.2% (13,518 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.4% (3,469 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (139 residents)
  • Asian: 15.5% (4,016 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (29 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.2% (3,150 residents)
  • Other: 6% (1,552 residents)

What percentage of the population in South End Boston are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 69.8% of the population in South End Boston.

How many housing units are there in South End Boston?

There are 14,057 housing units in South End Boston, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South End Boston and what is the average household size?

South End Boston has a total of 12,629 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South End Boston?

South End Boston has a median household income of $98,224, representing a +9.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South End Boston?

The employment rate is 93.6% in South End Boston, with a workforce of 13,704 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 96.8% (13,262 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 3.2% (442 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.3% (1,132 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.2% (8,663 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 7.8% (1,071 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 20.7% (2,838 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025