Boston has long been known as a city of students, professionals, and families — but now, a new wave of homebuyers is shaping the market: Gen Z. Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, these buyers are entering their mid-20s and early 30s, ready to trade renting for ownership.
But what exactly does Gen Z want when it comes to buying a home in Boston? Their preferences are reshaping neighborhoods, influencing design trends, and changing the way sellers market their properties. Let’s take a closer look.
1. Walkability and Transit Access
Unlike past generations who prioritized big yards and two-car garages, Gen Z buyers in Boston are focused on walkable neighborhoods and easy access to public transit. Proximity to the MBTA, bike paths, and car-free living are major selling points.
👉 Neighborhoods like Allston, Jamaica Plain, and East Boston are particularly attractive because they combine affordability (relative to places like Back Bay and Cambridge nearby) with lifestyle convenience.
2. Affordable Entry Points
Boston is known for its competitive housing market — and affordability is top of mind for Gen Z. They’re looking for starter homes, condos, or multifamily properties where they can live in one unit and rent the others. Check out our Storii Time podcast on the popularity in co-buying and house hacking.
If you’re a seller wondering how to attract this generation, highlighting affordability and potential for rental income is key. (For more tips, check out our Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in Boston (2025 Edition)).
3. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
This generation is the most eco-conscious yet. Gen Z buyers are actively seeking out energy-efficient homes, smart thermostats, solar panels, and sustainable building materials.
If you’re preparing your home for the market, small improvements can go a long way. See our post on 10 Ways to Make Your Home Energy Efficient in 2025 for easy updates that attract eco-minded buyers.
4. Space for Remote Work
Hybrid work is here to stay, and Gen Z wants homes that fit that lifestyle. Instead of a formal dining room, they’re more interested in a dedicated home office, a quiet nook, or even shared co-living amenities.
This shift is influencing the way homes are staged and marketed — sellers highlighting flexible spaces are more likely to catch a Gen Z buyer’s eye.
5. Community and Culture Over Square Footage
For many Gen Z buyers, a sense of community matters more than square footage. They’re choosing vibrant, diverse, and up-and-coming neighborhoods like Roslindale, which has become a hotspot. (Read more in our spotlight: Why Everyone’s Moving to Roslindale).
6. Tech-Savvy Features
Smart home technology isn’t just a perk — it’s becoming an expectation. Gen Z wants homes with keyless entry, app-based security systems, and smart appliances. A property that feels modern and connected will stand out against older Boston housing stock.
7. No-Compromise Inspections
Unlike some Millennials who waived inspections during the housing frenzy, Gen Z is cautious. They want full transparency and detailed inspections before buying — especially in a city with older housing like Boston.
In fact, many regrets shared by earlier buyers could have been avoided. (Check out our article: 10 Things First-Time Home Buyers Regret in Boston).
8. Guidance Through the Process
As first-time buyers, many Gen Z clients are navigating an intimidating market. They want clear guidance, education, and agents who will advocate for them.
That’s where Torii comes in. We’ve put together resources like our First-Time Home Buyer Guide: What to Know Before Buying in Boston to help them start smart, and our agents — like Saad Munir and Mike Sokolowski — specialize in working with younger buyers.
Final Thoughts
Gen Z is entering Boston’s housing market with fresh priorities: affordability, sustainability, community, and tech-driven convenience. For sellers, understanding these preferences can mean the difference between a home that sits and a home that sells.
At Torii Homes, we’ve worked with countless first-time and Gen Z buyers to help them find a place that matches their lifestyle. Whether you’re buying your first condo or preparing to sell your home to attract this new generation, we’re here to guide you through every step. Schedule a call with us here.