Cost of Living in Boston

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The cost of living in Boston is high, and you should plan your budget carefully to avoid any unexpected financial strain. As one of the pricier cities in the USA, Boston’s living costs – particularly for housing and healthcare – can be substantial compared to many other American metropolitan areas.

Your employment package may include some contribution towards accommodation and health insurance. Nonetheless, make sure you have a clear understanding of your expected monthly expenses before negotiating your salary.

Cost of accommodation in Boston

Accommodation in Boston is likely to be your most considerable expense. The rental market is one of the tightest in the country, with vacancy rates hovering around 3 percent, which makes rental costs steep.

You’ll typically need to pay your first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a security deposit to secure your lease. Broker fees – usually equivalent to one month’s rent – are also standard practice in Boston, although a law change in August 2025 shifted the responsibility to whoever hires the broker. This means you could be looking at the equivalent of four months’ rent upfront if you work with a broker, so budget accordingly for these hefty initial costs.

Accommodation in Boston

Cost of transport in Boston

Thankfully, you don’t need to invest in some wheels when moving to Boston. Public transport in Boston, operated by the MBTA (known locally as ‘the T’), covers subway, bus, commuter rail, and ferry services at reasonable fares. A monthly LinkPass provides unlimited access to the subway and local bus, which is perfect for daily commuters. The city is also fairly bicycle-friendly if you want to save money and stay fit.

Public Transport in Boston

Cost of groceries in Boston

Grocery costs in Boston run higher than the national average, with food prices having climbed substantially since 2021. Major chains like Stop & Shop and Star Market are widely available, although Market Basket offers better value if you can reach their locations.

Most neighbourhoods have convenient access to mainstream supermarkets, while speciality shops tend to cluster in international communities. Delivery services cover all major chains, and farmers’ markets operate seasonally throughout the city.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Boston

Entertainment and eating out in Boston come with a price tag to match the city’s reputation, and restaurant prices have climbed sharply in recent years. That said, the city isn’t without its bargains. Free and low-cost entertainment abounds – from the iconic Freedom Trail and Shakespeare on the Common to free museum days and waterfront walks. If you do some research and spend money smartly, you can live comfortably while still enjoying the city.

See and Do in Boston

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 for US citizens and legal residents.

On the other hand, fees for private and international schools can be steep, so parents planning on taking this route should try to negotiate the inclusion of fees in their relocation contracts.

Education in Boston
International Schools in Boston

Cost of healthcare in Boston

Healthcare in Boston gives you access to some of the best hospitals and highly trained practitioners in the USA, but these facilities come at a steep cost. Health insurance premiums have risen sharply – Massachusetts has the second-highest family health insurance premiums in the country. You may be fortunate to have your medical insurance covered by your employer. If you’re paying for your own health insurance, bear in mind that costs will vary depending on factors such as medical history, age, and lifestyle habits.

Healthcare in Boston