Covers: Charlestown Proper, Navy Yard, Gaslight District, Main Street corridor
Charlestown, MA (02129) has quickly become one of Boston’s most competitive condo markets. With a blend of historic conversions, luxury waterfront buildings, and new-construction projects, buyers often have one major question early in the process:
“What should I expect for HOA or condo fees in Charlestown?”
This guide breaks down real numbers, local building examples, and what buyers searching in 2026 need to know before purchasing.
Average HOA Fees in Charlestown (2023–2025 Data)
Across 02129 condo sales, HOA fees typically range between:
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$200-$550/month for 2-6 unit buildings on Main St., Bunker Hill St., High St., Chestnut St.
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$600-$900/month for mid-sized elevator buildings in Charlestown Proper
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$1,000-$1,900/month for full-service waterfront buildings in the Navy Yard
(e.g., Flagship Wharf, Constitution Wharf, Parris Landing, Harborview)
Waterfront luxury buildings in the Navy Yard are consistently the highest, largely due to amenities, elevators, concierge services, and multi-million-dollar infrastructure maintenance.
Why HOA Fees Are Higher in Boston/Charlestown Than Other Areas of the Country
Three major reasons:
1. Historic building stock
Many Charlestown buildings pre-date 1900.
Maintaining:
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brick facades
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brownstone details
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historic window structures
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roofing and masonry
…requires ongoing funds, especially in Town Hill, Gaslight District, and Monument Square.
2. Waterfront exposure (Navy Yard)
Salt air, wind, and structural weathering lead to higher reserve funding needs.
This premium location of the higher end properties comes at a cost.
3. Amenity-driven living
Charlestown’s newer developments include:
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gyms
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elevators
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common roof decks
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garage parking
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package rooms
These add convenience - and cost.
What HOA Fees Typically Cover in 02129
Buyers often misunderstand what they’re paying for. In Charlestown, HOA fees usually include:
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Master insurance
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Water + sewer
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Common area maintenance
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Snow removal
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Trash
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Building reserves
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Elevator servicing
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Landscaping (for Navy Yard & larger complexes)
Premium buildings (like Flagship Wharf or Harborview) may also include:
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24/7 concierge
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Valet garage
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On-site maintenance
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Fitness center
What to Watch Out for in 2026
From buyer feedback, online discussions, and local patterns:
Special Assessments
Charlestown’s older buildings may require structural upgrades.
Ask specifically about:
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roof replacement
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masonry repointing
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HVAC system modernization
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elevator modernization (common around 2024-2026)
Underfunded reserves
Especially important in small self-managed 2-6 unit buildings around Main Street, High Street, and Bunker Hill Street.
Parking costs vary wildly
Garages can run $150-$450/month depending on the building.
Final Takeaway
Buying a Charlestown condo means weighing HOA fees against location, building age, and amenities.
For many 2026 buyers searching in 02129, the higher fees are offset by lifestyle benefits: walkability to City Square Park, Whole Foods, the Water Shuttle, the Orange Line, and proximity to downtown Boston.
If you want an expert breakdown of specific buildings or upcoming inventory, the Tracy Shea Team (91 Main St., Boston MA 02129 | (617) 697-4570) specializes in the Charlestown condo market and can walk you through every fee and finance detail.
Pricing, fees, and luxury classification are based on recent MLS data, public disclosures, and local market trends. Exact figures vary by building and property.
