Living in Boston
Boston is the most populous city in Massachusetts and the 21st most populous city in the country. It is one of the oldest cities in America and played host to some of America's most pivotal events, including parts of the American Revolution, the Boston Tea Party, the Siege of Boston, and the Battle of Bunker Hill. Today, the city is known for its excellent educational opportunities, strong job market, thriving nightlife scene, exciting sports, and desirable neighborhoods.
Cost of Living
While Boston has no shortage of fabulous amenities, living here doesn’t come cheap. The overall cost of living in Boston is about 48% higher than the national average, with housing coming in at about 107% higher. For people who want to enjoy this Northeast gem, however, the trade-off is well worth it. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Boston is just over $3000, while the average price of a two-bedroom is about $3700. Therefore, you will need an income of about $127,000 a year to live comfortably in the city. You should also factor in taxes to your budget when moving to Boston. The income tax rate is 5%, the sales tax rate is 6.25%, and the state has some of the highest property taxes in the country.
Job Market and Economy
Boston ranks among the top five cities in the nation for its job market. Some of the most significant industries in the area include healthcare, finance, and education. These three industries alone account for 74% of all employment in the city. With 54 colleges and universities in the area, the city is an attractive place for students and professors. Beyond education, the city is also quickly becoming a hub for technology. With companies like Pfizer, Google, and Novartis laying down roots in the city, as well as the close proximity to MIT, the city’s tech scene is on the rise. Boston is also a major financial center, with some major players such as Fidelity Investments, Eaton Vance, and Putnam Investments located in the city.
Transportation
Owning a car in Boston might be more trouble than it's worth. For starters, the traffic is thick, but parking is also scarce and expensive. Fortunately, you can get around the city easily and efficiently using public transportation. Boston’s MBTA transportation system connects the city and suburbs, allowing for easy travel in and around the city. The subway is referred to as the T and runs throughout Boston and into Cambridge. The subway also makes stops at major attractions, universities, and popular neighborhoods. Taxis and ride-share services are also readily available throughout the city, and biking has become increasingly popular.
Choosing a Neighborhood in Boston
Choosing the right neighborhood can be challenging in a new city, and with so many great Boston neighborhoods, the options can feel overwhelming. Here are some amenities to consider when choosing the right neighborhood for you.
Outdoor Space
Some people may be accustomed to urban living in the middle of a city, but others might desire more green spaces. Nearby parks, trails, and farmers markets can be a great way to enjoy nature and meet new people. Some people might even prefer a backyard area of their own, so outdoor space is definitely something to consider when looking at neighborhood options.
Your Commute
One of the most important things to consider for most people is their commute time. Not only should you consider the amount of time it takes, but also the ease of getting there. Whether you are traveling to work, school, or anywhere in between, it is important to research your accessibility to public transportation.
Dining and Shopping
You also want to choose a neighborhood with close proximity to grocery stores, retail shops, and restaurants. It’s always nice to have a convenience store, donut shop, or pizza parlor nearby.
Popular Neighborhoods in Boston
South Boston
The locals refer to this area as “Southie,” and it is home to a number of young professionals and young families. There are a lot of apartment options available, as well as easy access to downtown, Boston’s Seaport and waterfront, and plenty of bars and restaurants.
South End
Boston’s South End neighborhood is on the small side, but it is one of the most picturesque areas in the entire city. Located near downtown, you will find charking brownstone homes and luxury apartments. There are also several high-end restaurants and shopping venues.
North End
The North End is one of the most historic neighborhoods in the city and tends to be a bit more expensive. This neighborhood has easy access to public transportation and is close to Boston Garden, where you can catch a Celtics game or Bruins game. The area is packed with tourists in the summer, so expect bustling streets and summer festivals.
Cambridge
Cambridge is located just across the Charles River and close to downtown. It is home to the prestigious Harvard University and MIT, so it goes without saying that this area has a college feel. It is also the tech hub of New England, and you will find a variety of food and entertainment options.
Dining and Entertainment
Boston is packed with exciting things to see and do. It is an ideal location for culture-seekers and history buffs who want to soak up the music, art, exhibits, and more than 80 museums. You can walk along the Freedom Trail to see 16 of the city’s historic monuments and sites or follow the red brick sidewalk to the site of the Boston Massacre. You can also visit the site of the Boston Tea Party. Living in Boston is like traveling back in time!
Boston also boasts some of the best dining destinations in the world and is one of the top spots for culinary enthusiasts. The city is known for its award-winning fresh seafood, fusion dishes, and culinary trendsetting cuisines. There are plenty of iconic foods to try, including Kelly’s Roast Beef sandwich, Neighborhood’s cream of wheat, cannoli’s and Mike’s Pastry, and sticky buns at Flour Bakery & Cafe.
Boston is also known for its iconic sports teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, and plenty of college sports teams. The city also plays host to the Boston Marathon, the Boston Pops Firework Spectacular, and the Boston Caribbean Carnival.
Helpful guides
We have put together several guides on moving to Boston from some popular cities. Read these for more information:
Ready to Move to Boston? Allied Van Lines Can Help!
Whether you are a student attending one of the top colleges in the country, a young professional, or a family looking for a fantastic place to live, Boston has something for everyone. The city’s energy and excitement will never disappoint, and Bostonians are truly proud of their hometown. As you prepare to relocate to the Boston area, start by calling the professionals at Allied Van Lines. As a leader in the moving industry for more than 85 years, our knowledgeable and highly experienced specialists can guide you through the moving process. With the help of our team, you can save time, money, and a tremendous amount of stress. We know exactly what it takes to plan and execute a seamless move. Call Allied today for more information about our moving services, and let us help with your relocation to Boston!