Suffolk County Public RecordsMassachusetts

Suffolk County, MA, which includes Boston, saw a violent crime rate of 636.6 per 100,000 residents in 2022, higher than the state average of 308.9. Property crime rate was 2,003.1 per 100,000, also exceeding the Massachusetts average of 1,179.2. Boston Police and other local agencies track and report incidents through the Massachusetts Crime Statistics system. While total crime rates have decreased by 5% since 2020, concerns remain in urban areas. Residents are encouraged to report non-emergencies via 3-1-1 and emergencies through 9-1-1 for faster response and community safety involvement.

As of the 2020 Census, Suffolk County, MA had a population of approximately 797,936. The median age is about 33.8 years, with 48.5% male and 51.5% female. Racially, the county is 47.3% White, 19.1% Black or African American, 11.0% Asian, and 21.7% Hispanic or Latino (of any race), while others make up roughly 11%. Suffolk County encompasses Boston and is notable for its youthful, diverse, and urban population.

Suffolk County, MA, encompassing Boston, had 513,072 registered voters for the 2022 general election. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries, with Democrats comprising about 61% of registrants, Republicans 6%, and 33% unenrolled. In the 2020 presidential election, Suffolk County voted 80% for Biden, 18% for Trump. There are over 250 polling locations, administered by city election departments. Key issues include housing, transportation, and education. Checks and balances are overseen by bipartisan boards, with major parties being Democratic and Republican. Voter turnout typically ranges from 55-70% in general elections.

Suffolk County, MA, home to Boston, has over 30 public high schools and numerous private institutions. The Boston Public Schools district serves around 54,000 students, with a high school graduation rate of 76% (2023). Over 45% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. Notable colleges include Boston University and Northeastern University. Schools offer strong STEM and arts programs, and adult education is provided via community centers and local colleges. School safety measures are robust, with Boston Public Schools reporting a 7% drop in incidents in 2022, according to city data.

Suffolk County, MA, had an employment rate of approximately 67.5% in 2022. Major industries include healthcare and social assistance (19%), educational services (16%), and professional, scientific, and technical services (10%). Leading occupations are management (11%), office and administrative support (11%), and healthcare practitioners (9%). About 30% of residents commute by public transit, with Boston as the primary employment hub. Additionally, 47% of workers are employed within Suffolk County, and median travel time to work is 30 minutes.

Suffolk County, MA, including Boston, has a median home value of approximately $665,000 (2024) and a median rent around $2,900/month. Homeownership rates are low, at about 36%, due to high property values. Popular housing types include historic brownstones, modern condos, and multifamily units. Key neighborhoods are Back Bay, Dorchester, and East Boston. Property values have increased by around 5% year-over-year. Property tax rates average 0.67%, with an average annual tax bill near $4,500. The market remains competitive, driven by strong demand and limited inventory.