South End: Harrison Ave Safety? (Boston, Berkley: apartment, renting, crime)

[affle]

Hi all,

My roommate and I (both early 20s females) are considering renting an apartment on Harrison, right by the SOWA market. What are your thoughts on safety of the area? I saw some old posts on the issue, but would like to know what current thoughts are.

We're also considering Washington instead--does the one street make a difference in safety?

Thanks!

[Cliff Clavin]

Eh. You might be better off 1 block over on Washington. On Harrison, you'd just a few doors down from the Pine Street Inn, and there are some shady dudes hanging out there 24/7. That whole E Berkley/Harrison Ave area is a little rough, especially at night. I wouldn't recommend it to a couple young women. Not even sure I'd move there myself.

[HenryAlan]

The block between Harrison and Washington is where edgy meets seedy. I'd recommend against it.

[affle]

Thanks! Will not be taking the Harrison unit. Really appreciate the honesty.

[bostonguy1960]

Truthfully, even over on Shawmut Ave. or Tremont can be a bit sketchy late night on some side streets even though they're nice. Too many housing projects nearby-- not that all the crime comes only from them.

Mass. ave. in the South End may be safer because it's so well lighted, with lots of traffic.

[affle]

Appreciate the heads up. Granted, we're going to school in a high-crime area at the moment, so "don't walk alone at night" has been grilled into our heads for the past four years. Nonetheless, would be nice not to have to worry as much once we get to Boston.