Good area for an Irishman moving to Metro Boston?

[Flashpoint922]

Originally Posted by Sean MacDougal

thanks friend. the lodging itself is very nice, much more than just adequate and i reckon i wouldn't have issues with my housemates or the house itself

the concern for me is flat is in the town of Dorchester in Boston, and although I have read (here) that there are many irish there, it also was alluded too that this town is "hit and miss" when it comes to streets and i would prefer that my immediate area is safe and secure, is this area safe?

That area is great! It's Lower Mills, and it's right up the street from Milton. I don't think that area is a problem with safety. Dorchester is a huge neighbourhood, almost a burough of sorts; it's similar to a place like Brooklyn in NYC because it's very diverse and extensive. Further up Dorchester Ave, it may be a different story, but even up there by Ashmont has been cleaned up quite a bit. There's some great restaurants up that way. I think you got a great deal with your current setup. Also, shameless plug here, but my friend Nate actually has a barber shop up the street from you called City Legends Barbershop, if you're looking for a great haircut mate! Good luck with your new job and place. Here's to spring coming soon!

[Lewisham]

Hi Sean,
As someone who's done the same. I'd recommend trying to get in touch with other young Irish folks who've moved over in the same position as yourself. You'll get a better idea of the area.

Usually when you ask a local "I'm Irish, where should I live???" they'll automatically go towards Southie area. It's the "traditional" Irish area of Boston, most people would be 2nd, 3rd, 4th generation Irish. It's VERY different from being in Ireland. It's going to be a very different experience than falling in with a few Irish kids who came over to go to one of the colleges or work here. I think you'd fit in a lot better north of the Charles, Cambridge is great with tons of Irish kids but Somerville is close and cheaper.
Allston/Brighton is an option for cheaper shared accommodation but it's a mixed bag what you'll find.

On the budget the city would be great but I think it's a stretch on the budget unfortunately. You'd be best staying near a T line until you're driving or know the area at least. Most likely you'd be heading into the city to socialize and stuff.

[n1ey]

Originally Posted by Lewisham

Hi Sean,
As someone who's done the same. I'd recommend trying to get in touch with other young Irish folks who've moved over in the same position as yourself. You'll get a better idea of the area.

Usually when you ask a local "I'm Irish, where should I live???" they'll automatically go towards Southie area. It's the "traditional" Irish area of Boston, most people would be 2nd, 3rd, 4th generation Irish. It's VERY different from being in Ireland. It's going to be a very different experience than falling in with a few Irish kids who came over to go to one of the colleges or work here. I think you'd fit in a lot better north of the Charles, Cambridge is great with tons of Irish kids but Somerville is close and cheaper.
Allston/Brighton is an option for cheaper shared accommodation but it's a mixed bag what you'll find.

On the budget the city would be great but I think it's a stretch on the budget unfortunately. You'd be best staying near a T line until you're driving or know the area at least. Most likely you'd be heading into the city to socialize and stuff.

Dorchester is the traditional "Irish" sector. You will find more around the Erie Pub, Milton, etc. You are not looking.

Bill

[Lewisham]

Well OP sounds like a young guy.

That area is definitely the "traditional" Irish area meaning a lot of 2nd/3rd generation Irish. Nothing wrong with that, what I'm saying is if he's looking for other Irish transplants around his own age, we aren't really in that area.

Despite the locals insiting it's Irish, it's more of an older generation Irish, meaning it's a big culture shock for a young Irish guy. The amount of times people say things like "tiocfaidh ar la", and drink "black and tans" when I've visited bars around Dorcester is pretty shocking. And if you're not away why both those things are so offensive, that's why it's probably not the best area for the OP to meet a few people from home to get started. Just saying.