Southeast Boston, Boston, MA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
199,705
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$91,444/yr
5.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
86,117
1.3% year-over-year change

Southeast Boston population

How many people live in Southeast Boston

Southeast Boston is home to 199,705 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Southeast Boston locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
199,705
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
95,672
Female
52.1%
104,033
Value Percent YoY change
Male 95,672 47.9% 0.8%
Female 104,033 52.1% 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 Southeast Boston is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.6% are children under 15, then 11.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 35.6% of the population, while another 23.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.6%
15 to 24
11.6%
25 to 44
35.6%
45 to 64
23.5%
Over 65
13.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 31,184 15.6% -1.7%
15 to 24 23,058 11.6% 3.8%
25 to 44 71,025 35.6% 0.8%
45 to 64 46,978 23.5% -0.1%
Over 65 27,461 13.8% 4.1%
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 Southeast Boston, 66.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 22.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 32.7% of locals are Caucasian, 36.5% are African American and 7.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 16% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
66.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
22.4%
Non-citizens
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 132,570 66.4% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 44,632 22.4% 4.8%
Non-citizens 22,503 11.3% 5.7%
Racial breakdown
White
32.7%
Black or African American
36.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
16%
Other
7.2%
Value Percent
White 65,333 32.7%
Black or African American 72,897 36.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 677 0.3%
Asian 14,237 7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 264 0.1%
Two or more races 31,861 16%
Other 14,437 7.2%

Households in Southeast Boston

A peek inside Southeast Boston households

Southeast Boston has 80,508 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.4% are families, while the remaining 43.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
80,508
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
35,062
Family households
45,446
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 35,062 43.6% 2.6%
Family households 45,446 56.4% 2.0%
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 Southeast Boston

The housing landscape of Southeast Boston

Southeast Boston's housing consists of 86,117 units, with 15.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.5% 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
86,117
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,672 15.9%
1 unit, attached 7,346 8.5%
2 units 13,580 15.8%
3 or 4 units 25,948 30.1%
5 to 9 units 6,945 8.1%
10 to 19 units 3,831 4.4%
20 to 49 units 5,390 6.3%
50 or more units 9,336 10.8%
Mobile home 60 0.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0%
Homes built since 2020
909
55.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Southeast Boston

In Southeast Boston, the median construction year is 1946. About 46.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 39,740 46.2% -0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,072 5.9% 5.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 7,043 8.2% 0.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,232 6.1% -1.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,799 5.6% -6.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,659 5.4% 5.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,312 3.8% -7.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,818 7.9% 3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,533 9.9% 10.6%
Built in 2020 or later 909 1.1% 55.6%
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.

Southeast Boston occupancy rates

Out of the 80,508 occupied housing units in Southeast Boston, 42.3% are owner-occupied, while 57.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
80,508
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
46,466
Owner occupied
34,042
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 46,466 57.7% 1.9%
Owner occupied 34,042 42.3% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
6.5%
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.

Southeast Boston housing costs

Housing costs in Southeast Boston come to a median of $2,144 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,958.

Median housing costs per month
$2,144/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 Southeast Boston
$1,958/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 Southeast Boston

Southeast Boston education at a glance

About 30.3% of the population in Southeast Boston went to high school, while 16.2% pursued college studies. Another 5.9% earned an associate degree and 25.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 10,483 6.5% 9.5%
High school diploma 49,030 30.3% -0.4%
College diploma 26,224 16.2% -4.7%
Associate degree 9,521 5.9% -3.3%
Bachelor's degree 40,969 25.3% 5.4%
Graduate degree 25,585 15.8% 3.6%
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 Southeast Boston

How much people earn in Southeast Boston

The average annual household income in Southeast Boston was $132,955 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $91,444, reflecting a +5.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Southeast Boston
$132,955/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Southeast Boston
$91,444/year
5.7% year-over-year change

Southeast Boston income by age

In Southeast Boston, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $112,444. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,702 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,031, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,552 in earnings. Overall, 84.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,031 -6.0%
25 - 44 $112,444 5.7%
45 - 64 $87,702 5.3%
Over 65 $51,552 0.0%
Above poverty level
165,844
Below poverty level
30,252
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 165,844 84.6% 1.3%
Below poverty level 30,252 15.4% -0.6%

Employment in Southeast Boston

Workforce and job types in Southeast Boston

86.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
95,734
Blue collar
14,778
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 95,734 86.6% 0.5%
Blue collar 14,778 13.4% 2.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,500 6.8% 3.3%
Private companies 68,550 62% 1.8%
Governmental workers 14,553 13.2% -4.3%
Not for profit companies 19,908 18% 0.5%

Transportation in Southeast Boston

How people get around in Southeast Boston

In Southeast Boston, the average commute time is 184 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 71.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 9.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
184 min
14.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 53,150 71.5% -1.8%
Taxicab 843 1.1% 34.7%
Bus or trolleybus 11,097 14.9% -0.9%
Railroad 920 1.2% 16.3%
Ferryboat 35 0% -16.7%
Motorcycle 84 0.1% 25.4%
Bicycle 1,101 1.5% 14.7%
Walk 7,092 9.5% -0.8%
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 Southeast Boston by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
02118 28,946 14,497 $98,224 $178,495
02131 31,151 12,694 $111,006 $146,819
02136 37,265 13,719 $96,737 $116,121
02121 29,040 10,760 $43,136 $78,031
02122 23,479 9,299 $86,150 $115,747
02124 56,216 20,287 $81,923 $113,917
02125 33,662 14,246 $82,953 $112,054
02126 26,583 9,284 $65,709 $104,035
02127 36,769 18,066 $164,387 $205,271
02210 6,971 4,588 $172,124 $248,895

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FAQs about Southeast Boston demographics 

What is the total population of Southeast Boston?

Southeast Boston has a total population of 199,705 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Southeast Boston?

The gender ratio in Southeast Boston is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (95,672 residents)
  • 52.1% females (104,033 residents)

What is the median age in Southeast Boston?

The median age in Southeast Boston is 37.

What is the age distribution of the population in Southeast Boston?

The age distribution in Southeast Boston is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.6% (31,184 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.6% (23,058 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 35.6% (71,025 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.5% (46,978 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.8% (27,461 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Boston?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Southeast Boston is as follows:
  • White: 32.7% (65,333 residents)
  • Black or African American: 36.5% (72,897 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (677 residents)
  • Asian: 7.1% (14,237 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (264 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 16% (31,861 residents)
  • Other: 7.2% (14,437 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 66.4% of the population in Southeast Boston.

How many housing units are there in Southeast Boston?

There are 86,117 housing units in Southeast Boston, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Southeast Boston has a total of 80,508 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Southeast Boston?

Southeast Boston has a median household income of $91,444, representing a +5.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Southeast Boston?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.6% (95,734 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.4% (14,778 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (7,500 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (68,550 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (14,553 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 18% (19,908 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