31F moving to Beacon Hill in October. LF advice on safety, rodents, and navigating Boston as a Black woman?

Hi! I’m moving for a new job in Boston this October and I’m so excited. But as the move gets closer, the pre move jitters are setting in, especially since I’ve never actually set foot in Boston. I’d love to hear from locals on a few things keeping me up at night.

Beacon Hill

Finding housing was an absolute nightmare, but thank goodness I secured a lease on an overpriced,<400 sq ft efficiency in Beacon Hill shortly after a virtual showing. From Google Maps, the area and building look well kept, but since I’ve never seen either in person, I’m cautiously optimistic. If you live in Beacon Hill, what’s your experience like? Is it Is there a real sense of community, or more of an anonymous, keep-to-yourself kinda vibe? I’d especially love to hear from women in their early 30s, but everyone’s welcome to share.

Safety 

I’ve been lurking on r/Boston and r/Massachusetts for weeks and have seen several alarming posts about crime in city centre. so, I’d love to hear from other women in particular:

1. How safe do you generally feel getting around the city?
2. Would you feel comfortable walking a dog in Beacon Hill in the evening or early morning?
3. Any specific streets or areas to avoid at night?

Rodents 

I am terrified of rats and mice. Beyond the obvious ie keep food sealed, and apartment clean, what steps should I take right before or after moving in to keep them out for good? Open to recommendations for traps, electronic deterrents, or anything else that’s actually worked for you.

Being Black in Boston 

I’ve read a lot about Black people experiencing racism here. I’m Black, for the most part, but I’m from a country where race isn’t as central to identity as it is in the US, so I’ll admit I’ve been pretty insouciant about racism up to this point. I’m worried the worst of what I’ve read online will become my reality, and I’m not sure how well equipped I am to navigate it. If you’re Black and live in Boston, I’d really love to hear from you.

Thank you very much.