- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Boston Guide (PDF)
The cost of living in Boston is high, and new arrivals should prepare their budgets carefully to avoid any nasty surprises. In Mercer's Cost of Living Survey for 2022, Boston was listed as the 30th most expensive out of 227 cities, up from 50th in 2021.
Employment packages may include some contribution toward accommodation and health insurance. Nonetheless, new arrivals should be aware of their possible monthly expenses before negotiating their salary.
Cost of accommodation in Boston
Accommodation is likely to be the largest expense for those moving to Boston. As there is a high demand for accommodation in Boston, rental costs are expensive. Tenants often need to pay their first month's rent as well as a security deposit to secure their lease. This, combined with rental agency fees, means that new arrivals need to budget for hefty initial housing costs.
Cost of eating out and entertainment in Boston
There is much to see and do in Boston, but recreational pursuits aren't cheap. Since Boston is considerably smaller than many other cities in the US, there is less competition between businesses, so eating out and entertainment costs remain high. That said, expats on a budget who spend smartly can live comfortably while still enjoying the city.
Cost of transport in Boston
Thankfully, there isn't a need to invest in some wheels when moving to Boston, as the city boasts a comprehensive and reliable public transport network that is accessible at reasonable prices. Boston is also fairly bicycle-friendly for those wanting to commute by bike to save and improve their physical health.
Cost of education in Boston
Education in Boston is of a high calibre. The city is home to some of the country's top public schools, which are free to attend for US citizens and legal residents. On the other hand, fees for private and international schools can be steep, so newly arrived parents planning on taking this route should try to negotiate the inclusion of fees into their relocation contracts.
Cost of living in Boston chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Boston in February 2023.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 2,750 |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 1,975 |
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
USD 5,100 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
USD 3,420 |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
USD 4.26 |
Milk (1 litre) |
USD 1.11 |
Rice (1kg) |
USD 4.33 |
Loaf of bread |
USD 3.98 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
USD 14.18 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
USD 13 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
USD 10.60 |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
USD 2.30 |
Cappuccino |
USD 5 |
Local beer (500ml) |
USD 7 |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
USD 95 |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
USD 0.21 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
USD 62 |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
USD 185 |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
USD 1.86 |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
USD 2.40 |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
USD 0.98 |
Further reading
►To learn more about managing money in the States, read Banking, Money and Taxes in the US
Expat Experiences
"The cost of living in Boston is quite similar to Switzerland when it comes to rent and health costs. Eating out and grocery shopping in general are a bit cheaper (certain items can be more expensive though, like cheese for example, which is obviously highly relevant to a Swiss person)."
Read more about Swiss expat Sandra's experiences in Boston.
Are you an expat living in Boston?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Boston. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.