Apartments to rent in 02120, Boston

Crime rates in parts of 02120 (Mission Hill / Lower Roxbury corridor) trend higher than the Boston city average for violent and property crime; however levels vary block-by-block and the area is the focus of active community safety and outreach efforts. Local community organizations and BPD initiatives target hotspots around commercial nodes and transit stations. Visitors and new residents should exercise typical urban precautions (well-lit routes at night, secure vehicles/ground-floor units).

Overview

02120 covers Mission Hill and Roxbury Crossing — a compact, highly walkable part of Boston that sits at the edge of the Longwood Medical & Academic Area. The ZIP has a large renter population (students, hospital staff, and long-term residents), strong transit connections (Green/Orange Line access), active neighborhood retail at Brigham Circle and Tremont, and a mix of older rowhouses plus newer apartment developments. Prices are generally in line with Boston averages for inner neighborhoods, with one-bedrooms commonly in the $2,100–$3,200 range depending on location and amenities.

Key Features

• Transit & walkability: Roxbury Crossing, Brigham Circle and Ruggles put much of the city within easy transit reach.
• Near Longwood Medical & Academic Area: Short commutes to major hospitals and universities make 02120 popular with healthcare workers and students.
• Active neighborhood retail: Brigham Circle and Tremont St provide grocery, cafes, and a farmers market.
• Community assets: Local parks, Reggie Lewis athletic facilities and long-standing community organizations support neighborhood life.

Housing Snapshot

• High renter share — many multi-unit and student-oriented buildings.
• Wide rent spread: modest older units to new-construction premium apartments near transit.
• Strong short-distance demand from medical workers and university students that shapes turnover seasonality.

History

• Early settlement and 19th-century growth Areas around Mission Hill and Roxbury date back to early colonial settlement and grew through the 19th century with diverse housing stock.
• Medical & academic growth The build-out of the Longwood Medical & Academic Area increased local rental demand and spurred newer housing and services in the early 20th and 21st centuries.
• Community revitalization Local development and community organizations have worked on housing, retail, and public-space improvements in recent decades.

Demographics and Lifestyle

• Young, diverse population 02120 has many students and young professionals plus long-term local families — a multicultural mix.
• Transit-oriented lifestyle High WalkScore and Transit Score mean many residents rely on the T and biking rather than cars.
• Access to healthcare & education Short commutes to major hospitals (Brigham & Women's, Boston Children's) and colleges shape daytime activity and rental demand.
• Active local commerce Corner markets, cafes, and the Mission Hill farmers market provide daily conveniences and community touchpoints.