
Boston is the fastest growing city in the United States Northeastern region. With more than 250,000 students studying at different universities, English schools, and colleges in the city, it is bustling with a young population. If you are thinking of moving to Boston, the are different costs that you should consider, and we will list below to help you make a better-informed decision on what costs are involved when relocating to Boston and living in the city.
Before I start, let me give you some quick facts about Boston
I bet you didn’t know that data about Boston, but let us get started with five helpful tips to make your move to Boston hassle-free!
#1 MOVING AND SHIPPING COSTS:
In Boston, there are lots of moving and shippìng companies; however, some of the best ones are Gentle Giant Moving Company, Fabio Moving Services, and Raimond’s Movers. On their website, you can calculate your personalized moving price. Also, you can specify where you are moving from, the weight of your belongings, and other personal specifications. It is an entirely personalized service tailor to your every need and demand. However, if you are moving from another city within the United States, the cost of it will range between $577 — $1,586 per moving.
The best part of using moving companies is that you do not have to deal with all the hassles involved in moving on your own such as transporting heavy furniture, or renting and driving a car. Instead, you could ask your friends for some help. Doing this can help decrease the costs of moving significantly. If you choose to ask your friends, you would only need a car.
Don’t have a car? Check out these two low-cost car renting companies that can offer you this service: ZipCar and rentcars.com
#2 HOUSING COSTS
Boston is considered to be one of the most expensive cities in the United States, particularly in terms of housing, which differ a lot depending on the neighborhood you choose to live in. For example, in East Cambridge, a 1-bedroom apartment can cost $2,710 on average.
If you think the rental price is too high, you have heard the whole story. The traditional housing market in Boston does not include broker fees, furniture, and utilities.
Not to worry though, co-living companies like PlaceMe, provide a solution by offering all-inclusive and fully-furnished apartments with flexible stays. What does this mean? With PlaceMe, all you need is yourself and your suitcase!
#3 GROCERIES AND RESTAURANT COSTS
If you are coming from another country, food and restaurants can create a cultural shock (We’ve all been there). As an international city, Boston offers many different grocery stores with International Food selections. Star Market, Market Basket, Costco, and Stop & Shop are the most significant stores spread throughout the city. For those coming from Asia, HMart is your store!
In terms of grocery spending, you should expect to spend $440 on average every month. If you are looking for a more affordable option, every Friday and Saturday, North End has the Farmer’s Market, where farmers sell fresh fruits and vegetables at low costs. On another note, there are many restaurants with different cuisines. However, depending on where you go, dining out can cost you a minimum of $20 per meal, and in a fast-food restaurant, an average of $7 per meal.
Tip: Did you know they can deliver you the food at home? With InstaCart, you can do your groceries online! Click here for more details.
#4 UTILITY COSTS
Utilities include heat, water, electricity, and sewage garbage. Overall, the cost for these services costs can cost on average is $150.00 per month on average. During winter, heat can be one of your high utility costs since the cold season can be hard. The image below is a guide for you to understand better the electricity bills you will receive when leaving in Boston.
#5 TRANSPORTATION FARES
In the city of Boston, the best way to commute is by train, also known as the “T,” or walking. The city has one of the best metro and bus communication around the United States. Did you know that Boston’s subway system, the MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority), was built in 1894, one of the first metro constructions in the world!.
Boston’s T has four main lines that you can easily be differentiated by their colors: blue, green, red, and orange. The metro lines cover a total of 1,193 miles and stop in over 128 stops or stations. Some of the most popular T and bus stations are Government Center, Haymarket, and Park Street.
This image provides you with the information you need to know not to get lost! The lines, stations, and connections. A pass that lasts a month is $90 and $2.90 per individual ride, and per month, overall transportation expenditures range between $87 to $140 per month. For more information about prices, discounts, and bus or train connections, click here.
#5 TAXES IN BOSTON
In the United States, the average annual property tax payment is $3,336. In the State of Massachusetts, the income tax rate is 5.10%, and short-term capital gains are taxed at a rate of 12%. If you are planning on renting an apartment or work in the area of Boston, these are costs you should take into consideration.
Published on November 7, 2019
