Boston
Updated 2025-01
6 min read
Brookline Neighborhood Guide for BU Students
Explore Brookline near BU - Coolidge Corner cafes, restaurants, and why students love this upscale Boston suburb.Quick AnswerSpring 2026Verified 2025-01
Brookline is the upscale neighbor to BU's campus - a leafy, safe suburb with great restaurants, independent shops, and a more relaxed vibe than Allston. It's technically its own town (not part of Boston), which means better schools and cleaner streets.
Curated for BU Students•Last verified: 2025-01•Spring 2026
In This Guide
1
Why BU Students Love Brookline
Brookline is the upscale neighbor to BU's campus - a leafy, safe suburb with great restaurants, independent shops, and a more relaxed vibe than Allston. It's technically its own town (not part of Boston), which means better schools and cleaner streets.
1 mi
From West Campus
C Line
Green Line Access
$$
Moderate Prices
Very
Safe
2
Coolidge Corner
The heart of Brookline for students. This walkable intersection has everything:
- Coolidge Corner Theatre: Independent cinema showing art films and classics
- Brookline Booksmith: Amazing independent bookstore with author events
- Zaftigs Delicatessen: Classic Jewish deli, huge portions
- Paris Creperie: Sweet and savory crepes, perfect study spot
- Kupel's Bagels: Best bagels near BU
3
Best Restaurants in Brookline
Brookline's food scene is more upscale than Allston but still student-friendly:
- Rami's: Israeli street food, falafel, shawarma
- Taberna de Haro: Spanish tapas, great date spot
- Otto Pizza: Gourmet pizza by the slice
- FoMu: Vegan ice cream that rivals dairy
- The Publick House: Belgian beer bar with great food
- Michael's Deli: Another excellent Jewish deli option
4
Living in Brookline
Pro Tip
Brookline Housing
- Average Rent: $1,000-1,500/bedroom (more than Allston)
- Pros: Safer, quieter, nicer apartments, close to C Line
- Cons: More expensive, fewer students, less nightlife
- Best Areas: Coolidge Corner, Washington Square, Brookline Village
- Good For: Grad students, upperclassmen wanting quiet
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Brookline from BU?
Walk down Beacon Street or take the Green Line C to Coolidge Corner (about 15 min from BU Central). The 66 bus also runs through Brookline.
Is Brookline safe?
Yes, Brookline is one of the safest areas near BU. It's a wealthy suburb with low crime rates and well-lit streets.
Is Brookline worth the higher rent?
For grad students or those who prioritize quiet and safety, yes. For undergrads who want to be near the social scene, Allston might be better value.
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