Back Bay

Back Bay is the neighborhood people picture when they picture Boston: block after block of Victorian brownstones along tree-lined streets, running from the Public Garden west to Massachusetts Avenue. It’s an unusual thing to find in a city built on cowpaths, because none of it is accidental — the entire district was engineered, filled in from tidal marsh between 1857 and the 1890s and laid out on a French-inspired grid, with cross streets running in alphabetical order from Arlington to Hereford. Today the housing ranges from parlor-floor brownstone conversions to full-service towers near the Prudential Center, and nearly every address is within walking distance of Newbury Street, the Esplanade along the Charles, and three subway lines.

Location: Between the Public Garden and Massachusetts Avenue, bounded by the Charles River to the north and Huntington Avenue to the south

Built: 1857–1890s, on filled tidal marshland

Designation: National Historic Landmark District

Housing: Brownstone condo conversions, full-service high-rises, a small number of single-family townhouses

Transit: Green Line (Arlington, Copley, Hynes), Orange Line and commuter rail (Back Bay Station)

Landmarks: Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, Commonwealth Avenue Mall, Newbury Street, the Esplanade

$1.695m
$1,429
45 Saint Botolph Street
Boston, MA 02116
3
Beds
,
2
Baths
,
1,186
square feet,
Bright and beautifully appointed, this 3 bedroom, 2 bath penthouse duplex offers an exceptional blend of space, light, and style on coveted, tree-lined St. Botolph Street. A private roof deck and one assigned parking space add to the appeal of this sophisticated city residence. The spacious living and dining area features handsome hardwood floors and a dramatic skylight that brings natural light to the entry stairwell. The renovated open kitchen is thoughtfully designed with stainless steel appliances and opens seamlessly to the living space, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. The main level also offers a generous bedroom with walk-in closet, a versatile private office/nursery that could easily serve as a third bedroom, and a full bath. Upstairs, the sun-filled primary suite is a true retreat, featuring exposed brick, a large skylight with remote-controlled shade, and a beautifully appointed en suite bath with frameless glass shower and rain showerhead. Step outside to the spacious private roof deck, offering ample room for dining, lounging, and gardening while enjoying the city setting. Additional amenities include in-unit laundry and central air conditioning. Ideally located near the Prudential Center, Orange and Green T lines, commuter rail, shops, restaurants, and all that Back Bay and the South End have to offer.
Residential
MLS# 73579800 Gibson Sotheby's International Realty
$5.585m
$3,188
430 Stuart St
Boston, MA 02116
2
Beds
,
3
Baths
,
1,752
square feet,
Residence 23J - Raffles Boston offers a rare opportunity to acquire a coveted corner floor plan, available for the first time since the sellout of the upper residences. This 1, 752-square-foot, two-bedroom plus den, two-and-a-half-bath home pairs bespoke design with the service and lifestyle of Raffles. Southeast exposures fill the 23rd-floor residence with natural light and frame sweeping views over Back Bay, the South End, Boston Harbor, and the city skyline. A private terrace offers a tranquil setting above the city. Thoughtfully enhanced beyond developer specifications, the home features integrated Lutron lighting and automation, custom blinds, layered lighting, bespoke wall treatments, and tailored millwork. The spacious den has been transformed into an elegant office with a full-wall built-in and retractable desk ready to receive overnight guests. The chef’s kitchen features Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, quartz surfaces, and custom detailing. The primary suite offers three custom closets and a spa-inspired bath with a soaking tub. The secondary bedroom includes custom closet systems and designer finishes. Specialized acoustic glass panels and sound-mitigating window upgrades bring an exceptional sense of calm to this city residence. Two parking spaces with 24-hour valet service—complete the offering. Residents enjoy a 24-hour concierge and doorman, Raffles Butler service, an indoor lap pool and spa, fitness center, outdoor terraces, wine and entertaining spaces, a golf simulator, library lounge, pet amenities, and dining destinations including Long Bar & Terrace, La Padrona, and The Blind Duck. Residence 23J is a turnkey home defined by thoughtful design, privacy, and the distinctive Raffles lifestyle.
Residential
MLS# 73579383 The Collaborative Companies
$3.4m
$1,359
398 Marlborough St
Boston, MA 02115
2
Beds
,
4
Baths
,
2,501
square feet,
Designed by the renowned Boston architectural firm Peabody and Stearns and built in 1889, this elegant Marlborough Street parlor-and-garden-level duplex offers grandly proportioned rooms, a private walled garden, and two assigned and deeded parking spaces. A black-and-white marble-tiled foyer with a decorative marble fireplace welcomes you into the home and leads to a striking front room overlooking Marlborough Street. Anchored by an impressive fireplace with a beautiful Siena marble surround and hearth and an Italian crystal chandelier, this versatile space is ideal for formal dining, a second living room, library, or home office.The exceptionally wide living room features three large windows with Back Bay Shutters, custom built-in bookcases, and a third fireplace. Its generous scale accommodates both comfortable daily living and an informal dining area. The adjacent kitchen includes granite countertops, a tiled backsplash, and high-end appliances.The primary suite overlooks the private garden and features a five-piece marble en-suite bath. An internal study with French Doors, built-in bookcases, and a Murphy bed provides flexible space and is situated beside the guest suite. The guest bedroom includes a tiled en-suite bath with shower, extensive built-in cabinetry, and an additional Murphy bed.A bright, heated sunroom overlooks the garden and can be enjoyed year-round. The colorful, walled garden provides a private outdoor setting for dining and entertaining, with direct access to two assigned and deeded parking spaces.
Residential
MLS# 73579341 Campion & Company Fine Homes Real Estate
$2.85m
$1,348
234 W Newton
Boston, MA 02116
4
Beds
,
4
Baths
,
2,114
square feet,
Spectacular South End penthouse triplex 4+ bed with private outdoor space and onsite garage parking! This one of a kind home offers an ideal location along the Southwest Corridor park and a short walk to the Prudential center and an easy walk to all of the South End. Fully renovated 4+ bedroom home offers a large and sunny primary suite with a marble bath and a large walk in closet. The bedroom floor also offers two additional full size bedrooms and a shared full bathroom. A Large 3rd floor living room room is ideal for lounging, is flooded with western facing light and hardwood floors, and has access to a 4th bedroom/office with a Murphy bed and another full bath. A sensational penthouse level kitchen/living/dining space has unmatched wow factor with its oversized sliding glass doors that open to a front facing deck with commanding city skyline views! This real Chef's kitchen offers top-of-the-line appliances, stainless counters, gas cooking, wine storage & is ideal for entertaining! The top floor is flooded with natural light, has a gas fireplace, a half bath and. A large deck allows for seamless indoor/outdoor living and a fixed gas line for grilling. This amazing home is complete in unit laundry, ample storage throughout, central air and 1 full oversized garage space!
Residential
MLS# 73579320 Coldwell Banker Realty - Boston
$7.95m
$996
475 Beacon St
Boston, MA 02115
7,984
square feet,
0.06
Acres
,
Prestigious Back Bay multi-unit brownstone on historic Beacon Street. This building is currently nine condominium units and is operated as a multi-family apartment building. There are 8 studios and 1 two bedroom unit. All of the condos and parking are rented and the taxes are a total of the nine individual condo units. Every units has a fireplace. Many have hardwood floors and bow windows. An investor could continue to operate the property as rentals. A buyer could also choose to sell the condos individually. A developer may want to create three or four luxury units. Close to the Harvard Club, MIT, the Hotel Eliot, public transportation, excellent restaurants and Newbury Street shopping.
Commercial Sale
MLS# 73576270 Cabot & Company
$415,000
$1,596
362 Commonwealth Ave
Boston, MA 02115
1
Baths
,
260
square feet,
Crisp, clean unit in A+ location. Professionally managed pet friendly building with elevators and roof deck. Low condo fee includes heat and hot water. A handful of already paid for recent improvements to common area, new roof (2022), new roof deck (2025), and massive facade overhaul. Conveniently located near the green line, bus stop, Newbury Street, Esplanade and everything that Back Bay has to offer!
Residential
MLS# 73579205 Compass
$800,000
$1,368
144 Commonwealth Ave
Boston, MA 02116
1
Beds
,
1
Baths
,
585
square feet,
Location, Grand Entrance, Elegant Commonwealth Ave Brownstone, Professional Management, Stunning interior designed 1bed condo on 2nd floor, 12 foot high ceilings, Dartmouth Street and Copley Sq location, Elevator, Sunny bay window, Very generous Living room with Fireplace and built in cabinets, French pocket doors separate renovated kitchen, California closets, Gut Renovated bathroom with walk in shower, Hardwood floors, Laundry in building, Private Storage room . ***** Building has had many recent improvements which include: Repointing. ( exterior - front and back walls ), new copper gutters, exterior window frames painted, updated boiler, new slate mansard roof, chimney repointing, basement utility room walls - sealed, common areas restored, new electric ice dam gutter prevention wires, restored brownstone facade, restored front brownstone stoop entrance and building front doors.
Residential
MLS# 73579015 Baron Associates
$810,000
$1,266
405 Marlborough St
Boston, MA 02115
1
Beds
,
1
Baths
,
640
square feet,
CHARMING BACK BAY 1-BEDROOM | COMMON ROOF DECK | IN-UNIT LAUNDRY. Experience the best of Back Bay living in this charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath residence ideally located near the Charles River, Prudential Center, Fenway, the T, boutique shopping, and exceptional dining. The sun-filled living room features elegant bay windows, classic built-in shelving, and a beautiful fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space with timeless Boston character. The kitchen offers custom cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, while hardwood floors run throughout the home. The spacious bedroom provides a generous walk-in closet, with additional storage in the hallway and bedroom. An in-unit washer/dryer adds everyday convenience. Enjoy the ultimate city escape from the common roof deck, offering beautiful views of the Charles River and Boston skyline. A wonderful opportunity to enjoy classic Back Bay charm with modern conveniences in one of Boston’s most desirable neighborhoods.
Residential
MLS# 73579058 William Raveis R.E. & Home Services
$8.495m
$2,323
2 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, MA 02116
2
Beds
,
3
Baths
,
3,657
square feet,
VERY MOTIVATED SELLER and Previously on the market with a Price of $10, 595, 000, this Large Corner Unit at the Carlton House of Boston is now offered at $8.495, 000 and an Incredible Opportunity to purchase a valuable piece of real estate at a great price. Currently a 2 Bedroom Plus Den, this 3657 square foot unit all on one level could be converted to 3 or more Bedrooms. Fantastic Views from Multiple Floor to Ceiling Windows. 15E/F was originally 2 units that were combined so it includes 2 Valet Garage Parking. Located on an upper floor in the building, where ceiling height is higher than the floors below. Very bright with North and West exposures, the views span along the Charles River, Public Garden and a One of Kind view of the Commonwealth Mall. This property could either be moderately renovated (new kitchen and baths), or completely gut renovated. The building offers 24/7 Concierge and Valet, Room Service from the Newbury Hotel and access to the beautiful hotel fitness center.
Residential
MLS# 73578894 Coldwell Banker Realty - Boston
$839,000
$1,050
16 Harcourt Street
Boston, MA 02116
1
Beds
,
1
Baths
,
799
square feet,
Best of Back Bay Doorman Building located at The Residences at Copley Place. Wonderful boutique Co-Op building on a charming and quiet tree lined Back Bay street just steps to the best restaurants and cafes, grocery store, gyms, MBTA, Charles River, Symphony Hall, Museums and parks makes this the perfect location to live in Boston! This sun splashed 9th floor home has all southwest facing windows with wonderful views over Back Bay and South End. Well-designed and efficient home features bedroom with large walk-in closets and brand new carpeting. Living spaces have beautiful hardwood floors and there is a full-size washer/dryer. Stylish kitchen has gorgeous cabinetry, granite and stainless appliances and wonderful breakfast bar area for entertaining. Additional deeded and locked storage unit conveniently down the hall. Heat pump extra and the central air provided to entire building included in fee. Copley Place Mall rental garage parking available for residents of building @ only $400. The Residences are connected to Copley Mall and MBTA for convenient indoor access to everything. Building has 24-hour concierge and full-service maintenance staff including on-site building manager. ( Note: Condo fee will include residential tax payment of $437/mo = $1, 545/mo is total Co-Op fee.)
Residential
MLS# 73578513 Coldwell Banker Realty - Boston
$1.385m
$1,079
145 Saint Botolph St
Boston, MA 02115
2
Beds
,
2
Baths
,
1,284
square feet,
Enjoy the room to live, work, entertain, and truly settle in, all in the heart of Back Bay. Unit 24 at the School House Condominium offers a thoughtfully designed two-level layout, giving you the kind of flexibility and separation that is hard to find in a city condo. Step inside and discover a warm, inviting home where beautiful wood floors, high ceilings, and custom built-ins bring character to every level. The living room offers generous space to relax and gather, with custom shelving and cabinetry providing both style and functionality. Just beyond, the dining room welcomes everything from quiet dinners to evenings with friends, framed by a charming bay window that adds natural light and architectural character. The galley-style kitchen keeps everyday cooking practical and connected to the rest of the home, with stainless steel appliances ready for everything from morning coffee to dinner at home. When it's time to unwind, retreat to one of two comfortable bedrooms, both featuring wood flooring and thoughtful storage. The second bedroom also offers a built-in desk and high ceilings, creating an ideal space for a home office, guest room, or personal retreat. And then there is the library, a truly special feature with floor-to-ceiling custom shelving and a ladder, offering a wonderful space to curl up with a book, work from home, display your collection, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the activity of the main living spaces. Two full baths, in-unit laundry, central air, elevator access, and the enduring charm of a historic Graham Gund-designed brick building add to the everyday ease of this home. Located in the desirable Back Bay, with public transportation, shopping, parks, the T, universities, and more all within the surrounding area, Unit 24 offers a chance to enjoy the energy of the city without giving up the space you want at home. Come see how much more comfortable city living can feel when you have the space to make it your own. ** Historic School House Condominium building designed by renowned Boston architect Graham Gund.** ** Open House Sunday, September 20th from 1:30-3:00pm. **
Residential
MLS# 73578450 Real Broker MA, LLC
$2.795m
$1,419
180 Marlborough St
Boston, MA 02116
2
Beds
,
3
Baths
,
1,970
square feet,
Set within a classic Back Bay townhouse on one of the neighborhood’s most desirable streets, this spacious duplex offers the scale, character and flexibility rarely found in a two-bedroom home. Nearly 2, 000 square feet unfold across two levels, with high ceilings, detailed millwork and a striking south-facing bay window bringing beautiful natural light into the main living spaces. A wood-burning fireplace anchors the generous living and dining area, while the eat-in kitchen features custom cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and abundant storage. Two well-proportioned bedrooms each offer renovated en-suite baths, complemented by an additional half bath. An expansive family room with custom built-ins adds tremendous versatility and can easily serve as a media room, home office or potential third bedroom. With its townhouse proportions, flexible layout and coveted Back Bay address, this is a distinctive opportunity to enjoy a remarkably spacious city home. Rental parking is available nearby.
Residential
MLS# 73578383 Corcoran Property Advisors