Boston is a small city that has everything you need! It is incredibly walkable (can make it from South End to Beacon Hill in a morning – easy) and has lots of great neighborhoods to explore, each with their own charm. Neighboring Cambridge and Brookline provide a slightly less urban vibe, though are certainly not sleepy suburbs with plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you entertained. 

South End: Culturally and socioeconomically diverse Boston neighborhood historically associated with artists and the LGBTQ community, filled with mid-19th century brownstones and now a major center for great Boston restaurants, theater, and one of the city’s best summer markets, SoWa. Depending on what part of the South End you choose, walking to BCH may be an option, though expect a longer commute time of at least 20-30 minutes on foot. There are several public transportation options including Green Line (Symphony), and several bus options.

Jamaica Plain:  JP, as it is more fondly known, is a diverse and large neighborhood home to young professionals, activists, and artists, alike. Think hipster-suburbia. There are plenty of locally owned businesses, some of the best ethnic food in the city and it is also one of the greenest areas in Boston with Arnold Arboretum, Franklin Park, Jamaica Pond, and more. This neighborhood is known for being dog-friendly, multicultural and proud of it’s LGBTQ community. Lots of commuting options including walking, biking, public transportation, or driving. 

Mission Hill: Convenient area just next to the Longwood Medical Area. Home to lots of hospital-affiliated renters and Northeastern students. Has all the essentials and takes 10 minutes to get to Children’s. On the Green E line as well.

Back Bay: Beautiful, urban neighborhood with rows of residential Victorian brownstones and the Prudential and John Hancock skyscrapers.  Home to Newbury St with fun restaurants and great shopping, and adjacent commercial Boylston St. Abuts the Charles River and Esplanade, a beautiful place to walk and run. Also borders the Public Garden, a beautiful setting to spend a weekend morning or afternoon. Back Bay is a bit of a walk to Longwood (30+ min depending on where you start). The Green Line runs right down Back Bay, taking you directly to Longwood medical area.

Fenway/Kenmore: Very convenient place to live, with a combination of smaller buildings and new luxury high rises. Lots of restaurants, including the new “TimeOut Market,” bars, a new Target, and of course, Red Sox games. Generally walkable to BCH. 

Beacon Hill: Historic, and most charming neighborhood in Boston. Quiet streets lined with beautiful, old brownstones. Expect smaller living spaces here. Excellent location with easy access to the Commons and Public Garden, historic Charles Street lined with restaurants, local markets and boutique shops. Beacon Hill is also minutes from the Charles River Esplanade. Commute from this part of town would most likely be via Green Line, with the option of a ~45 minute walk on nicer days. 

Brookline/Coolidge Corner: Brookline combines the benefits of living in the suburbs with the convenience of living in the city. The neighborhood offers beautiful parks, cute stores, great restaurants, and a few solid bars. Generally, a walk or a bike ride to BCH.

Cambridge: Residential, lovely city with progressive vibes, located between Harvard and MIT. A bit farther from the hospital, but wonderfully located amid some of the best music, food, and culture in town with great green spaces, proximity to the Charles River, and easy transport on the Red Line. Free & frequent Harvard shuttle bus from Harvard & Central Sq to BCH. 

Map of Boston area showing where pulmonary fellows live: 1 in Arlington, 1 in Cambridge, 3 in Back Bay, 1 in Fenway, 4 in Brookline, 2 in Jamaica Plain
Map of where the current Pulmonary Fellows live