Allston is one of the top student and young adult rental areas in Boston, making it difficult to label the neighborhood as an "affluent area." Recent market data shows that the median home price in the Allston-Brighton area hovers in the low $300,000s, which is below the average for downtown Boston.

However, just a 15-minute drive away, the situation changes dramatically. Across the Charles River, Beacon Hill has a median condo price ranging from $1.2 million to $1.3 million, and brick townhouses start at $3 million, with properties in the $5 million to $10 million range not being uncommon.

Back Bay is similarly priced. The recent median sale price is around $1.4 million, and listings often exceed $2.3 million. The Victorian-era brownstone architecture and tree-lined Commonwealth Avenue are key factors supporting the premium in this area.

Brookline, which is right next to Allston, is also worth noting. The median price for single-family homes has surpassed $2.6 million, and the overall median price, including condos, is reported to be in the $1.3 million to $1.6 million range. The area's strong school reputation and good public transport access to downtown Boston seem to contribute to consistent demand.

The reasons these areas have established themselves as premium neighborhoods vary. Beacon Hill and Back Bay are supported by their historical significance and urban accessibility since the 19th century, while Brookline's premium is attributed to its school district and low-density residential regulations.

The price gap between Allston and these neighborhoods can reach at least 4 to 5 times. The differences in location across the river, building age, and school district assignments within the Boston metropolitan area highlight important considerations when choosing a residence.

Many Korean households that initially move to Allston for studies or early settlement tend to relocate to Brookline or Newton later on. The trend of starting with rentals and gradually moving to higher-end areas while considering school districts and budgets is relatively clear within the local Korean community.