There is a significant difference in insulation performance between newly constructed buildings in Alston and triple-deckers built in the early 1900s. Older wooden triple-deckers often have single-pane windows, leading to much higher heating costs in winter, while the newly built structures on Commonwealth Avenue come equipped with double-pane windows and central heating and cooling systems as standard. So, what is the actual difference in rent?

The average rent in Alston is $2,896, with prices ranging from $2,442 to $4,066 depending on the location and size of the listings. The average rent for a one-bedroom is $3,279, while the average for a two-bedroom is $4,026. A newly opened one-bedroom at 1035 Commonwealth Avenue is listed at $4,100, which is about 25 percent higher than the local average for one-bedrooms. This is slightly above the national average increase of 10 to 20 percent.

What about the supply of new constructions in the greater Boston metro area? As of mid-2026, about 14,523 units are under construction, but the city of Boston itself has only issued permits for 432 new units in the first quarter of 2026, down from 549 units the previous year and 642 units the year before that. This is considered the slowest construction pace since 2010. In 2025, over 9,300 units were occupied, marking a five-year high, but a decrease is expected in 2026. With new construction slowing down, areas close to universities, like Alston, may see increased demand for existing new listings.

What advantages do older buildings have? Alston's triple-deckers typically offer larger bedroom sizes and more storage space compared to new constructions, and they are often located within walking distance to subway stations and commercial areas. However, heating costs and maintenance conditions can vary greatly from building to building, so it is advisable to check the recent boiler replacement history before signing a lease. Alston is close to Boston University and the Harvard Business School extension campus, so many tenants are students, faculty, and hospital staff. This tenant composition tends to cluster around the academic calendar and lease renewal periods, making it helpful to consider not only management fees but also the turnover rate of listings during moving seasons. So, which type of building is more prone to neglect? Older triple-deckers are often managed directly by individual landlords, leading to significant variations in response times between buildings.

How do property taxes differ? Massachusetts has a system called Proposition 2½, which caps the annual increase in total property tax revenue that municipalities can collect at 2.5 percent. However, newly constructed buildings, like those that have recently been built, are reflected in a separate category called new growth, which adds to the tax revenue. This means that in neighborhoods with a lot of new construction, the overall property tax burden is not significantly shifted onto existing homeowners.

The circumstances of those looking to move to Alston vary widely. Families considering the school district and commuting distances, investors looking for rental income, and families relocating from other states or Korea can all be found here. For investors, areas like Alston with steady university demand tend to have lower vacancy risks, but the nature of tenant turnover by semester can lead to higher management burdens compared to other areas. Families focused on school districts should refer to ratings from GreatSchools or Niche, but since boundaries change frequently, it is advisable to verify the assigned school for the specific address before purchasing or signing a lease. Families moving from out of state may find that Massachusetts's property tax structure differs significantly from their previous residence, so it is safest to check the actual tax rate and new growth inclusion with the local assessor's office.

If the budget is the same, families wanting to save on management and heating costs may prefer new constructions, while those prioritizing space and location may opt for older buildings. This article does not constitute investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult a professional before making any actual agreements.