Boston is one of America’s oldest cities known for its rich history, prestigious universities, and vibrant cultural scene. From the historic streets of Beacon Hill to the lively neighborhoods across the city, this city has a lot to offer. However, living here can be expensive as it’s still one of the pricier cities in the U.S. So if you’re thinking about moving here and curious about Boston cost of living, this guide will break down everything you should know. 

Housing Costs

Housing is the largest expense for most residents in Boston. While you get a range of options, you will have to put in more money to get a good place. The good thing is that you can opt for rent to see if you like the place. 

• Renting – Renting is a better option if you don’t want to commit to a huge investment. However, the rent prices will vary based on the location, and size of the property. As per Apartments reports, a one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartment will cost you $3,446/month, $4,416/month, and $5,801/month respectively. Prices can be higher in popular neighborhoods like Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and the Seaport District, where rents can exceed $4,000 for a one-bedroom space.

• Buying – Buying a property can be a good long-term investment but requires a huge upfront capital. According to Zillow, the average home value is $758,099 while areas like South Boston and Cambridge see prices well over $1 million.

Utilities

In Boston, utilities and internet are essential living expenses that add to your overall cost of living. Here are the Boston prices for the basic utilities:

• Electricity & Gas –  These utilities are essential for powering your home and heating it during colder months. The costs generally depend on usage and the size of your apartment or home. However, you can expect to pay between $80 and $150 per month for electricity. Gas typically costs between $50 and $100 per month. So combined, electricity and gas expenses usually range from $130 to $250 per month.

• Water & Trash –  Water bills are also based on usage and size of the household, but they can range from $30 to $60 per month. Trash collection is often included in your rent if you live in an apartment, but if it’s a separate service, expect to pay around $20 to $40 per month. 

• Internet & Cable – The Internet has become a necessity. So if you need a high-speed connection, expect to pay $60 to $100 per month. Basic cable packages usually start at around $50 per month, but prices can go higher with premium channels and packages.

Transportation

Getting around Boston involves various transportation expenses, whether you rely on public transit, or drive a car.

• Public Transportation – Boston has a good public transit system, known as the MBTA or “the T,”. A monthly pass for unlimited rides on buses and trains costs $90. If you only need to take the T occasionally, single-ride fares are $2.40 for the subway and $1.70 for the bus.

• Driving and Parking – If you prefer driving, you will spend some extra money as gas prices in Boston average around $4.00 per gallon. Parking in the city can be expensive, with monthly parking fees ranging from $200 to $500, depending on the location. 

Food and Groceries

Grocery shopping in Boston can be expensive, especially if you shop at specialty stores or markets. These expenses will vary based on the number of people in your family. On average, the cost of living in Boston for single person can be between $400 and $600 per month on groceries. This includes basic items like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, and pantry staples. Here’s what to expect: 

• Milk (1l): $1.36
• Bread (1 loaf): $4.33
• Eggs (dozen): $4.61
• Chicken (1 kg): $13.79
• Beef (1 kg): $21.19
• Rice (1 kg): $5.50
• Apples (1 kg): $5.64
• Potatoes (1 kg): $4.17

If you want to dine out, a meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costs between $20 and $30 per person. If you enjoy higher-end dining experiences, expect to pay $100 or more for a meal at a top restaurant. 

Healthcare

If you are researching how much to live in Boston, you should consider adding healthcare expenses. While healthcare in Boston is excellent, the costs are higher than in other cities:

• Health Insurance- For individuals purchasing their own insurance, plans can range from $300 to $700 per month, depending on the coverage. If you’re employed, your health insurance is likely partially covered by your employer, but you’ll still have to contribute to the premiums. 

• Doctor Visits and Co-Pays – Regular doctor visits typically require a co-pay, which usually ranges from $20 to $50 per visit, depending on your insurance plan. Even with insurance, there are out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, co-insurance, and costs for services not fully covered by your plan. 

Education

Education is a major consideration for families living in Boston, especially given the city’s reputation for excellent schools and universities.

• Schools – Public schools in Boston are free to attend, but there may be associated costs, such as fees for extracurricular activities, school supplies, uniforms, and field trips. On the other hand, private schools are costly as tuition for private schools ranges from $20,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the school and grade level.

• Higher Education – Boston is home to world-renowned universities like Harvard, MIT, and Boston University. Tuition costs for colleges and universities in Boston can be steep, ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 per year. 

Entertainment

If you’re asking ‘Is Boston expensive to live in’, you should look at the entertainment expenses as it’s a key part of enjoying life in Boston. Here are a few activities where you might spend:

• Movies and Theater – Going to the movies in Boston usually costs around $15 to $20 per ticket.

• Sports Events – Boston is a sports town with passionate fans. Expect to pay $50 to $200 for a decent seat at a major game. Premium games or playoffs can cost significantly more.

• Nightlife and Bars – A night out for drinks can cost $10 to $15 per cocktail at most bars, while entry to clubs or special events might add another $20 to $50.

• Fitness and Recreation – If you enjoy staying active, gym memberships in Boston average $50 to $100 per month.

Conclusion

The cost of living in Massachusetts is higher but the city offers a wealth of opportunities, culture, and amenities that many find worth the cost. By understanding the various expenses, from housing to healthcare, you can better plan and budget for your life in this historic city. This way you will be able to live comfortably without compromising on your needs. If you are moving for the first time, then here are some tips that can help you make your Boston moving easier.