Boston, MA Home Security Guide

Detailed crime statistics, neighborhood safety scores, and local security companies for Boston. Population: 675,647 residents.

Total Crime Rate

24 per 1,000

Violent Crime

6.51 per 1,000

Property Crime

17.5 per 1,000

Higher Than Average Crime

Boston has a crime rate 22% higher than the Massachusetts state average. A home security system is strongly recommended.

70

Low Risk

Safety Score

Protect Your Boston Home

Given the area's crime rates, a monitored security system is highly recommended

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Boston Crime Statistics (2024)

Violent Crime

6.51 per 1,000
Total Incidents 4,395
Murder 37
Rape 284
Robbery 1217
Aggravated Assault 2857

Property Crime

17.50 per 1,000
Total Incidents 11,821
Burglary 1,622
Theft 7,766
Vehicle Theft 2,433

Source: FBI Uniform Crime Report (estimated from state data). Crime rates are expressed per 1,000 residents.

Your Chance of Being a Victim in Boston

any crime

1 in 42

violent crime

1 in 154

property crime

1 in 57

motor vehicle_theft

1 in 278

Boston Neighborhoods

Safest Neighborhoods

Beacon Hill

Safety: 88/100

West Roxbury

Safety: 85/100

Back Bay

Safety: 83/100

Popular Neighborhoods

South Boston

Safety: 78/100

Rapidly developing area with growing restaurant scene

Jamaica Plain

Safety: 76/100

Diverse neighborhood with parks and local shops

Charlestown

Safety: 80/100

Historic neighborhood near the harbor

Higher Risk Areas

Roxbury

Safety: 42/100

Dorchester

Safety: 45/100

Mattapan

Safety: 40/100

Security Companies Serving Boston

No local security companies found near Boston. These national providers serve the area:

Security Companies Serving Boston

Most Common Crimes in Boston

1 Theft/larceny (11.49 per 1,000)
2 Motor vehicle theft (3.60 per 1,000)
3 Aggravated assault (4.23 per 1,000)
4 Burglary (2.40 per 1,000)
5 Package theft and porch piracy

Security Recommendations for Boston

Essential

Video doorbell (Ring, Nest, etc.)
Motion-sensor exterior lights
Deadbolt locks on all doors
Security system with monitoring

Recommended

Security cameras (front, back, driveway)
Smart locks
Window sensors
Package lockbox
GPS tracker for vehicles

Nice to Have

Smart garage door opener
Interior cameras
Glass break sensors

Boston Area Codes & Zip Codes

Area Codes

617857

Zip Codes

0210102108021090211002111021130211402115021160211802119021200212102122021240212502126021270212802129021300213102132021340213502136

Frequently Asked Questions About Boston Home Security

How safe is Boston compared to other major cities?

Boston's overall crime rate is lower than many comparably sized cities. Its violent crime rate of 6.51 per 1,000 is moderate, while property crime at 17.5 per 1,000 is the bigger concern. Motor vehicle theft has been rising in recent years.

What are the safest neighborhoods in Boston?

Beacon Hill, West Roxbury, and Back Bay consistently rank among Boston's safest neighborhoods. These areas have lower crime rates and strong community engagement with local police.

Do I need a home security system in Boston?

With a 1 in 57 chance of being a property crime victim, a security system is a smart investment for Boston residents. Video doorbells and exterior cameras are especially useful given the high rate of package theft and vehicle break-ins.

How common is car theft in Boston?

Motor vehicle theft occurs at a rate of 3.60 per 1,000 residents, making it one of the most common crimes. GPS trackers and steering wheel locks are recommended, especially in Dorchester and Roxbury.

What should I look for in a Boston home security company?

Look for companies that offer professional monitoring, mobile app control, and video verification. Given Boston's older housing stock, wireless systems that don't require drilling are often preferred.

Don't Wait Until It's Too Late

Boston's crime rates make home security a smart investment. Compare your options.

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