When you think of Boston, images of cream pies, Fenway Park, and the Boston Pops might spring to mind, set against a backdrop of rich historical sights and the prestigious halls of exclusive colleges.
This diverse and eclectic metro area offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, making it a compelling prospect for anyone considering moving.
The city’s vibrant cultural scene and robust educational environment present a strong list of pros to set against any cons. Before making your decision, it’s important to take a comprehensive look at what it truly means to live in one of America’s oldest cities.
Read on for an honest breakdown of daily life in Boston
Note: This article is a segment of the Local Living Series, where residents provide genuine evaluations of life in particular cities via detailed lists of advantages and disadvantages. Should you wish to contact the author with inquiries, kindly leave a comment below, and our team will facilitate communication with the appropriate individual.
Pros & Cons of Living in Boston
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Perks of Moving to Boston
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#1. Location, location, location
Living in Boston offers a prime central location that is perfect for both work and leisure. Nestled in the heart of the Northeastern United States, it provides easy access to a range of vacation destinations, from the vibrant New England fall color in Salem and Cape Cod to the tranquil shores of Martha’s Vineyard.
The city’s proximity to major nearby metropolises like New York City and Philadelphia means you’re just a four hour drive or a quick flight from Logan Airport—with its extensive domestic and international flights—away from some of the country’s most dynamic urban centers.
Whether it’s for day trips or longer getaways, you’re never bored in Boston, making it an excellent starting spot for exploring the broader region.
#2. Cultural opportunities and experiences
In Boston, a city where history, music, and arts converge, the cultural opportunities are as rich as they are diverse.
Whether you’re a history lover intrigued by freestanding historical buildings and the architecture that documents the growth of one of the United States’ first major cities, or an arts fanatic drawn to the numerous galleries and museums—58 at last count—there’s no shortage of cultural experiences to explore.
Dive into the past in Salem, Massachusetts, where the infamous witch trials of the 1690s beckon those curious about colonial American history. For music fans, the city’s vibrant scene offers access to performances across a variety of genres, ensuring that residents and visitors are continually engaged and entertained.
#3. Extensive public transportation system
Boston boasts America’s first subway system, a historical marvel built in 1897 that has evolved alongside the city growth.
This extensive network of subway lines, continually expanded routes, and safe, regularly scheduled services make it possible to live without a car, an essential feature in a city where the high cost of living can be daunting.
The public transportation here is not just excellent but a true money-saver, especially for students and those newly moved into new neighborhoods. Riding this subway system allows for an affordable, efficient lifestyle in one of the nation’s most bustling metro areas.
#4. Boston is safe
Living in Boston often means residing in one of the safest urban environments in the country. US News has rated it as the 13th safest place in America, a notable designation supported by crime statistics and residents’ reports.
For families moving to Boston, this makes it a good move, providing peace of mind when comparing to both larger cities and smaller towns or rural areas.
In 2020, Boston’s violent crime rate was significantly lower than the national average, showcasing its safety credentials not just through anecdotal evidence but through hard data, making it a safer choice for individuals and families alike.
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#5. The food scene
Boston is a diverse city celebrated not just for its rich history but also for its vibrant food scene. With over 3,000 restaurants, there truly is something for everyone, whether you’re craving fresh seafood along the harbor or authentic Italian food in the bustling North End.
The city’s ethnic neighborhoods further diversify the culinary offerings, with Chinatown providing a slice of the best Asian cuisine.
For those looking to enjoy the city views with a meal, Boston’s dining scene also boasts some of the best outdoor dining options, allowing diners to immerse themselves in the city’s eclectic atmosphere while enjoying a delicious feast.
#6. Educational opportunities
Boston is renowned for its phenomenal colleges and universities, making it a hub of academic excellence within the Boston metro area.
The educational infrastructure extends beyond higher education, with impressive public school options including the Boston Latin School, one of the first public schools in the US and a top public exam-entry school ranked 36th in the entire nation by US News.
The school’s notable alumni list reads like a who’s who of history, featuring luminaries such as Benjamin Franklin and Ralph Waldo Emerson. This rich educational landscape offers unparalleled opportunities to students across all levels of education.
#7. Comfortable summers
While Boston is notorious for its frightful winters, the summers tell a different story, offering pleasant and mild weather that makes the city a joy to explore.
Average summer temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to the high-80s, rarely hitting the 90s. This temperate climate allows residents and visitors alike to enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive heat found in many other cities during the summer months, making Boston’s summer season one of the most comfortable in the Northeast.
#8. Diverse neighborhoods
In Boston, the mosaic of distinct neighborhoods each offers a unique flavor and cultural tapestry. Whether you’re moving for a fast-paced lifestyle or prefer something more laid-back and artsy, there’s a spot that will meet your needs.
The city is famous for its historically ethnic neighborhoods, like the North End, a historically Italian neighborhood, and Chinatown, with its large Asian population. Each area provides a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural diversity and heritage, shaping a living experience that’s as varied as it is vibrant.
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#9. Public green spaces
Boston’s abundance of green space offers a refreshing escape from the concrete jungle of city life. From the iconic swan boats gliding across the lakes in Boston Common—America’s first public park—to the serene paths of the Esplanade and Greenways, these areas provide a tranquil setting where one can get away without leaving the city.
The lush Fenway Gardens further enrich the landscape, making living in Boston a unique blend of urban and natural environments. Large public parks are integral to the city’s character, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to immerse in nature and history simultaneously.
#10. Strong Economy
Boston’s thriving economy is bolstered by a strong jobs market that spans across tech, education, and finance sectors, making it a hub of opportunities and innovation.
A 2018 report even named this vibrant American city as experiencing some of the fastest growth in job opportunities in the nation. Whether you’re starting a career or looking to advance in your field, Boston’s economic landscape offers a dynamic and supportive environment for professional development.
#11. Healthy lifestyle
Boston offers its residents a high quality of life and a standard of living that is enhanced by access to excellent medical care.
Massachusetts General Hospital, not only home to innovative medical programs and exceptional doctors and surgeons, is ranked as the 3rd best hospital in America.
This ensures that you’re in good hands whether you need routine care or specialized treatment. The city’s emphasis on health makes living here synonymous with receiving top-tier medical care, contributing significantly to the well-being of its community.
#12. Sports culture
Boston’s sports culture is as alive and well as ever, anchored by some of America’s most famous sports teams like the Boston Red Sox and the Celtics.
At the heart of this fervor is Fenway Park, not only the oldest but also one of the most famous stadiums in Major League Baseball.
Here, great games unfold regularly, making it easy for newcomers to pick a team to root for and go all out in support. Whether you’re catching a game at Fenway or watching the Celtics play, the energy is contagious and integral to the local lifestyle.
Cons of Living in Boston
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#1. Cost of living
The cost of living in Boston can be tough on the budget, as it is notably expensive with housing costs 48% higher than the US average.
Whether buying or renting, finding an affordable living situation poses a challenge, especially in popular neighborhoods.
As of 2020, the average rent hovered around $3,400, pushing many, particularly students, to live in city dorms or with multiple roommates to ease the financial pressure in their daily life.
This yearly increase in expenses demands careful planning and financial acumen to navigate successfully.
#2. Bitter winters
In Boston, the transition from a pleasant summer breeze to bitter winters can be a real test of endurance. Average winter temperatures frequently hover around freezing, with regular below-freezing dips that make the ice and snow a constant presence.
The cold season not only lasts until March or April but also brings lots of snow and bitter winds, challenging residents for several months each year.
Over the past thirty years, January typically sees an average snowfall of about thirteen inches, though this can fluctuate. For those new to the area, you can expect to adapt to these rigorous conditions as part of daily life in Boston.
#3. Nightmare traffic
Jokes about driving in Boston are hardly off base; trying to navigate its streets is a nightmare traffic scenario, quite unlike the grid system of New York City.
Here, streets that run through roundabouts are common, complicating commutes even further. Recent studies have ranked Boston with the worst traffic congestion in the US, with commuters losing on average nearly 150 hours a year stuck in traffic.
This ongoing challenge significantly impacts daily routines and overall quality of life for those living or working in the city.
#4. Parking is a headache
Parking in Boston is notoriously expensive and difficult, making finding spots in both neighborhoods and business districts nearly impossible at times.
The high premium on space often results in a steep monthly fee for parking facilities. For those considering moving to the city, the struggle to secure street parking near your residence should definitely be taken into account.
This high cost of car ownership is a significant aspect of living in Boston, influencing many residents to rely more on public transportation or biking instead.
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#5. Lackluster nightlife
When moving to Boston, those seeking a vibrant nightlife might be disappointed. Clubs and bars typically close at 2 AM or earlier, reflecting a more subdued night scene. Overall, the city’s high cost of living makes drinking an expensive endeavor that can add up quickly.
This aspect, combined with early closing times, contributes to Boston’s reputation for having relatively lackluster nightlife compared to other major cities.
#6. Expensive flights
At Logan Airport, while easy to access, the absence of a status as a hub for major airlines and its relatively smaller airport size means it does not serve as many routes as larger hubs might.
This limitation often leads to expensive flights, which can really add up for the regular traveler. Flights run regularly, but average tickets are more expensive compared to those from neighboring airports.
This can make frequent flying a costly affair for Boston residents, impacting both personal and business travel budgets.
#7. Difficult landlords
Finding and securing a rental unit when moving to Boston can be particularly tricky due to the influx of students and a highly competitive rental market.
This environment has led to an increase in inexperienced landlords who might take advantage of renters. It’s crucial for new renters to carefully review their leases and rental contracts.
Many opt to hire a real estate agent to help navigate the process, ensuring that they find a suitable home without falling prey to difficult landlord tactics.
#8. Fitting in can take time
Fitting in in Boston might feel challenging initially as stereotypes of Bostonians being prickly or grumpy are often heard but are not true across the board.
Many neighborhoods are close-knit communities that may seem reluctant to warm up to outsiders. New Boston residents could find themselves feeling a bit lonely as they adjust to the new city, particularly given the ever-rotating cast of students that continuously filter through the city, contributing to a high turnover rate.
Yet, with time, those initial barriers often dissolve, allowing newcomers to integrate more deeply into the vibrant local culture.
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#9. Smaller living spaces.
In Boston, the high-cost-of-living often equates to getting less space for your money, whether you’re renting or buying.
Those moving to the city frequently end up in a smaller home compared to what the same budget would afford in other cities.
Currently, Boston’s rental cost is averaging about $4.25 per square foot, which pushes many residents to take a smaller space. The trade-off here is not always in terms of monetary savings, but rather making the most of what’s available within Boston’s bustling city limits.
#10. Lots of walking
Living in Boston means embracing walking as a key part of your daily routine, a definite pro for some but a con for others. For those coming from a city where car is king, the parking challenges can serve as a rude awakening.
Relying on public transport often means you’ll still need to find a parking spot near your destination, or more likely, accept that a great deal of walking will be part of your everyday life. Summer walking can be great, but you might find yourself cursing during the winter.
Approximately 25% of Boston commuters walk at least a half mile each way to work, the train, or bus stop before walking home again. This reality shapes both the rhythm of city life and its community’s fitness levels.
#11. Density
If you’re not a fan of getting up close and personal with your neighbors, living in the greater Boston area might be challenging.
It’s the third most densely populated city in the United States. The city of Boston takes up substantially less land than many other cities, yet houses a large population.
Consequently, stores and services are crammed close together, and you can expect to find a crowd everywhere you go. This compact living can feel vibrant and energetic but might also be overwhelming for those accustomed to more space.
#12. Limited daylight hours
Due to its northern location, Boston experiences a large portion of the year where it begins getting dark in the late afternoon.
This can be a big deal for those not used to it, as it may feel quite disruptive to internal clocks, often leaving individuals feeling drained and tired after only a few hours of daylight.
The cold weather and frequent rain typical of the local climate can further exacerbate the lack of sun, leading to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) symptoms in some people.
Those living in Boston find ways around this by investing in devices like a Happy Light for daily use to help mitigate the effects.
FAQs
Is it a good idea to move to Boston?
Despite its challenges, Boston remains a popular choice for those who can manage the higher cost of living. The city and its surrounding coastal communities offer a variety of appealing neighborhoods and suburbs, catering to both urban and seaside preferences.
Why do people move out of Boston?
The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Foundation reports that 25% of individuals aged 20 to 30 plan to relocate within the next five years. Factors influencing this decision include steep rental prices, challenges in purchasing a home, and career opportunities.
Is Boston a stressful city?
In the “Work Stress” subcategory, Boston is notably less stressed, ranking 38th, whereas Worcester ranks much lower at 114th. Additionally, Boston experiences less financial stress than Worcester, ranking 141st compared to Worcester’s 117th out of 182 cities surveyed.
