Boston is a city of contrasts; not only is it very historical, but it's also a modern city, containing institutions that are the vanguard of technology and medical innovation. It is one of the country's biggest cities but comprises tight-knit neighborhoods that can feel more like small townships. It offers incredible sporting events and is home to some of the most elite universities in the country. All these differences make Boston an exciting place to live.
Expats looking to relocate to Boston will be happy to learn that it has some of the best public schools in the country and is one of the few US cities where a car isn't mandatory for daily commute. Still, life in this historic city isn't without its challenges, as it does have a higher-than-average cost of living and a competitive rental market.
For general advice on searching for a home and signing a lease in the United States, see the article Accommodation in the USA.
Where to live in Boston: Neighborhoods
Boston is a city defined by its vibrant and distinct neighborhoods. To help narrow down your search, take a look at your lifestyle and budget. A young professional may be willing to sacrifice space to live in a neighborhood with lots of nightlife. Families may prefer to live a bit further from the action and benefit from a larger home and a quiet neighborhood. A few of the most popular areas in Boston are listed below. Rent prices across different suburbs can be found and compared at Rentcafe.
South Boston
South Boston has a rich history as an Irish and Polish neighborhood. Recently, it has become popular among young professionals due to its pretty waterfront and reasonably-priced housing. Apartments, condos, and townhomes are the most common types of accommodation in this area.
Charlestown
Charlestown, historically the home of Irish immigrants, retains a unique and charming spirit. The neighborhood boasts several important historical monuments, adding to its appeal.
South End
South End is a popular area in Boston, attracting young professionals, families, and a large LGBTQ community. Known for its food and arts scene, it houses numerous high-end restaurants. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South End is $3,900.
Allston
Allston is a bustling student neighborhood, with over 2,000 students choosing to live and rent here annually. The area hosts frequent student events and house parties. During the famous Allston Christmas event in August, students leave unwanted furniture on sidewalks, providing free furnishings for others.
Back Bay
Back Bay is considered one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in Boston. The area is home to upscale shopping boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. However, the average rent in Back Bay is higher, reaching around $4,000.
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill offers a trip back in time with its narrow streets and brick buildings. It is an affluent neighborhood with well-maintained gardens and movie-like holiday decorations throughout the year. The rent in this area starts at over $3,600.
Chinatown
Chinatown is the heart of Chinese culture in Boston and has undergone significant transformation. Once a stretch of mudflats, it is now home to residences, shops, and eateries. Part of the neighborhood is known as the Leather District, which houses up-and-coming restaurants and boutiques.
Downtown
Downtown is the hub of it all, including Boston's administration. It houses City Hall Plaza, administrative offices, and historical tourist attractions like the Freedom Trail.
Bay Village
Bay Village is a tiny neighborhood between South End, Back Bay, the theatre district, and Chinatown. Its central location makes it a great place to explore the city.
Dorchester
As Boston's largest neighborhood, Dorchester offers a wide selection of different housing options, ranging from condos to Victorian mansions or minimalist apartments. It is also close to other central neighborhoods in the city, making it easily accessible. The average rent in the area is around $3,300.
Jamaica Plain and Roslindale
Jamaica Plain and Roslindale are further from downtown and offer a more suburban lifestyle with parks and a laid-back atmosphere. Roslindale's tree-lined streets are home to many boutiques and cafes, while Jamaica Plain offers more diversity and nightlife. Both neighborhoods are popular among young professionals and families.
North End
North End is the center of Boston's Italian-American culture and one of the most visited areas in the city due to its historical sites. The neighborhood is famous for its abundance of Italian eateries, attracting foodies from all over town.
East Boston
East Boston is known for its proximity to Boston's Logan International Airport and fantastic city skyline views. It is an up-and-coming neighborhood popular among Italian-Americans and expats from Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia.
Other Boston suburbs
Some suburbs of Boston, such as Newton, Brookline, and Westborough, are highly coveted by families for their excellent schools and proximity to the city center. Brookline is known for its vibrant international food scene.
Helpful tips for your accommodation search in Boston:
Timing is important when searching for accommodation in Boston, with many leases beginning in September to align with the start of the academic year. The city has a well-developed public transportation network, including subways, buses, and commuter rails, making getting around easy. Additionally, consider the Hop On/Off Trolley Tour for exploring all the main sights of the city.
Accommodation and cost of living in Boston
As a historical city, many apartments and homes in Boston are quite old. This means apartments in older buildings tend to be smaller and have fewer amenities than newer buildings in other cities, although this may be made up for in aesthetic appeal! As with most cities, apartment size decreases, and prices increase closer to the city center. Downtown Boston mainly comprises apartments, condos, or lofts, while surrounding neighborhoods may have single-family homes or townhomes converted into multiple apartments.
The average size of a Boston apartment is around 812 square feet, but this varies depending on the property type, offering both cheaper and more expensive options for apartments of the same size. Studio apartments are the smallest and most affordable, followed by one-bedroom units with average pricing. Two- and three-bedroom units are larger and more expensive, with an average apartment price of $3,758.
Before signing a lease in Boston, consider these important steps:
1. Walk-through
Visiting the apartment in person is recommended, especially if you plan to rent long-term. If you can't do it yourself, ask someone you trust to do a walk-through on your behalf.
2. Review the guest policy
Check if the property allows long-term guests, such as partners or family members, and assess if this aligns with your living preferences.
3. Check the guarantor clause
For student housing, ensure that the lease includes a parent guarantee clause, which holds the guarantor liable for rent payments if a student tenant defaults.
4. Get everything in writing
If the lease has specific rules (e.g., pet policy, visitor rules, trash management), get them in writing with the landlord's signature to manage potential disputes and remind them of regulations.
5. Run a background check
Use online resources like Rentsmart to check for complaints or violations associated with the apartment's address. RentSmart is an official city of Boston website.
6. Seek a professional opinion
If you have questions or uncertainties about the lease, consider consulting a lawyer for a professional opinion to protect your interests when renting in a foreign country. Legal fees may range up to $1,000 depending on your case, but it can be a wise precaution.
By following these steps and conducting due diligence, you can make an informed decision and ensure a smoother leasing process in Boston.
Life in Boston
Expats in Boston will have lots to do in this historically and culturally rich city. As the state capital of Massachusetts and a city that has played a pivotal role in American history, there is no shortage of monuments, historical walks, and museums to explore. Sports fans will appreciate Boston's loyal support of their professional teams (everyone has heard of the Celtics and the Red Sox!), and game days can be exciting events to participate in. The city also offers numerous green spaces, biking and walking paths, and picturesque waterfront views. Foodies will be thrilled with the thriving restaurant scene, which ranges from classic Italian-American bistros to exciting Asian fusion options.
Boston experiences four distinct seasons, each with its charm and challenges. Summers, especially in July, can be hot and humid, while winters bring harsh temperatures that frequently dip below freezing. The area is known for powerful winter storms called Nor'easters, originating from the northeast coast of the United States. These storms bring flooding, extreme winds, and heavy snow. While they may interrupt travel and commuting for a few days, they generally don't cause catastrophic damage. For safety information during such events, expats can refer to the Massachusetts state webpage.
In Boston, you can expect to enjoy a diverse cultural scene, with a range of culturally diverse festivals, events, and neighborhoods. Expats can immerse themselves in the city's multicultural experiences and vibrant arts scene. If you're in the education or research fields, Boston is home to renowned educational institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
An efficient public transportation network, including buses, trains, and the subway system known as the "T”, makes Boston navigable without needing a car. The city's world-class healthcare, comparatively low crime rates, and family-friendly environment with numerous parks and playgrounds make it an amazing place to have a family – if you are prepared for the very high cost of living, that is.
Useful links:
Real Estate - The Boston Globe
Craigslist housing ads
apartments.com
Boston crime map
Free and almost free things to do in Boston
Massachusetts Public Safety - Nor'easter & coastal storm safety tips
Rentsmart — Property check in Boston
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
