This is Downtown Boston.
At the center of it all.
The heart of Boston
Downtown Boston is where the city’s history and its future meet. Centuries-old streets and landmarks sit alongside new homes, restaurants, theaters, schools, institutions, businesses, and public spaces that bring people together every day. It is the gateway to our great city.
More than 15,000 people now call Downtown home, while thousands more come here to work, study, visit, and experience the city. From Boston Common and the Financial District to the Freedom Trail and the historic streets in between, this is a neighborhood that is constantly evolving.
DBNA works to ensure that residents and stakeholders have a strong voice in the future of this important neighborhood.
Downtown Boston by the Numbers
Downtown Boston Residents
15,750+
estimated population as of 2025
Downtown Jobs
180,000+
~25% of Boston payroll jobs
Downtown Residential Units
7,376
residential housing units
Source: City of Boston Planning Department, 2025 Downtown Neighborhood Profile
More than the heartbeat of our city.
What makes Downtown home
Downtown is more than a collection of landmarks. It’s the parks, streets, institutions, businesses, and everyday routines that turn the center of Boston into a neighborhood.
Everyday Downtown
Morning coffee, school drop-offs, dog walks, dinner around the corner — everyday life unfolds against one of Boston’s most distinctive urban backdrops.
Parks + Public Spaces
Boston Common, pedestrian zones, plazas, and gathering spaces give residents, workers, students, and visitors room to gather, play, pause, and connect.
History + Culture
Revolutionary landmarks, historic buildings, theaters, museums, and performance spaces make history and culture part of the neighborhood’s everyday fabric.
The City at Your Doorstep
Walkable streets and major transit connections put the rest of Boston and the region within easy reach — while bringing the energy of the city to our doorstep.
Our Neighborhood
Everything you need, close to home.
Living Downtown
Living Downtown means having the city at your doorstep — from groceries and schools to transit, public services, and neighborhood resources. We’ve gathered some of the information most useful to residents in one place.
Essentials
Find grocery stores, pharmacies, and everyday necessities in and around Downtown.
Explore Essentials →
Families + Schools + Childcare
Explore childcare, schools, playgrounds, and resources for families living Downtown.
Explore Family Resources →
Getting Around
Find information on transit, walking, biking, parking, and getting around the neighborhood.
Explore Transportation →
Neighborhood Resources
Quick access to City services, 311, public safety information, neighborhood contacts, and other useful resources.
Explore Neighborhood Resources →
Around Downtown
People, places, projects, and moments from the neighborhood we call home.
