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By Melanie Ortiz Reyes - Content Specialist - PrimeStreet.io

Moving to Boston

Relocating to The Hub of the Universe

If you want to make Boston, MA your next home, keep in mind that this area has become increasingly popular over the last few years. It's one of the oldest cities in the country and is a metropolitan area with a population of over 700,000 people. Many factors have contributed to this growth, one of them being its happiness rating. 

According to NBC Boston, the city has an overall happiness score of 94 as of February 2023! In addition, Bostonians love their city and have a deep sense of pride and loyalty. 

If you like experiencing the four seasons, Boston is a great place to move to. Mild temperatures characterize the spring, and the city gradually warms up. It's common to have rain showers during this time of year. The summer is known to be very warm and humid, with July and August being the hottest months. Lots of people visit Boston during the fall to witness the vibrant colors of changing leaves. October is the best month for this. Snowfall is common during winter months, with occasional significant snowstorms.

The economy is recovering from the turmoil caused by the pandemic and saw some growth last year. Residents are known to have a strong work ethic here thanks to the city's reputation as a business and intellectual hub, attracting people looking to grow professionally.  

Boston is also a relatively young city, with a median age of around 34 years old. This is due in part to the many colleges and universities in the city, which attract a large number of young people from all over the globe. 

In addition to the many universities located in the city, Boston also has a solid public school system and a number of high-performing charter schools. As a result, many families move to Boston specifically to take advantage of the city's educational opportunities and to give their children the best possible chance of success. Boston is known for having a highly educated and culturally diverse population, and many businesses choose to locate here partly because of the availability of skilled workers. 

Boston is a walkable city! With a Walk Score of 93, Boston is the third most walkable city in the U.S., according to the website Smarter Travel. Runners have the right of way here! Did you know that Boston is one of the fittest states? It’s one of the top then states with the lowest obesity rates!

You can also bike here. Thanks to its multitude of bike paths, Walk Score gave Boston a Bike Score of 69 out of 100, deeming it "bikable." This attracts many people looking to live in the metropolitan area and surrounding neighborhoods. While taking a stroll or going on a bike ride, you're sure to notice its diverse buildings. 

Boston blends its historical charm with modern developments effortlessly. As a result, the city's architecture reflects a mix of old and new, with preserved colonial-era buildings standing alongside modern skyscrapers. This combination creates a unique visual appeal. People describe living here as having a city life with the benefits of a small-town feel.

While Boston is considered to have a high cost of living, it's important to note that it offers a range of amenities, attractions, an excellent education system, and solid job opportunities.

Here are some of the reasons people are deciding to make Boston their home:

  • Livability: Due to its excellent healthcare facilities, quality education, diverse neighborhoods, and access to cultural and recreational activities, the city consistently ranks high in livability indexes. These factors can contribute to higher overall satisfaction with the city.
     
  • Education and Career Opportunities: Being the home to world-renowned universities, it's no wonder that Boston has a thriving job market with highly driven professionals.
     
  • Natural Beauty: Boston offers easy access to green spaces, which is known to impact overall wellness and happiness.
     
  • Cultural Scene: The city hosts many festivals throughout the year and has excellent museums to visit.
     
  • Attractions and Amenities: With so many things to do, residents never get bored here. There's always something exciting to do or see!

What's Special About Boston?

Beautiful, cultural, and smart!

The city's history is palpable as it's the birthplace of the American Revolution. With its cobblestone streets, well-preserved colonial architecture, and numerous historical landmarks, Boston attracts many tourists each year. Here, you'll find Paul Revere's House and the Freedom Trail. 

Boston is also an academic hub being the home to several prestigious universities, including Boston University, Northeastern University, and of course, Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

The city has a strong economy, thriving job market, and high quality of life, making it a popular destination for homebuyers and renters alike.

If you're looking to live in an area that has a combination of old-city charm and modern architecture, Boston is the perfect place for you.

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Things To Do In Boston

Offering diverse neighborhoods, a fantastic food scene, and rich history, Boston has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists that locals enjoy as well. Boston is also within driving distance of popular destinations like Martha's Vineyard and Cape Cod.

Boston has many outdoor spaces to enjoy and explore! The Esplanade along the Charles River offers biking paths and opportunities for kayaking and boating. We recommend The Boston Common and Public Garden for a stroll or a picnic. If you are okay with walking, visiting iconic landmarks such as The Freedom Trail will take you through great historical sites like The Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum and the USS Constitution Museum. 

Speaking of Museums, Boston has several excellent museums catering to various interests. If you enjoy observing art, The Museum of Fine Arts has an extensive collection, including works like Water Lily Pond and Flower Beds at Vétheuil by the famous Claude Monet. You can also visit the famous Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, where the most significant art heist occurred in 1990. You get free admission if your name is Isabella and on your birthday as well. The New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science are fun and exciting options for kids.

If you're a sports enthusiast, you're in luck, as Bostonians love their sports! You can visit Fenway Park, the oldest baseball stadium in the U.S. and home to the Boston Red Sox.

With trendy shops and upscale boutiques, the city offers an outstanding shopping experience. We recommend visiting the Faneuil Hall Market, which consists of three historical buildings. It's where you'll find various stores and fantastic street performers. 

Boston offers a diverse culinary scene for foodies. Starting off with the very famous Regina Pizzaria, known as Boston's original pizzeria, which was founded in 1926. Celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Hudson, and Jay Leno have all enjoyed pizza here. For seafood, check out Neptune Oyster. They say you'll see the line before you see the restaurant. If you don't have a reservation, expect to wait two-three hours for a table. But, with a rating of over four stars, customers say it's worth it. 

Tiffany Taison, a Top Chef contestant, opened Sweet Cheeks Q, a barbecue restaurant offering a vast menu. You'll have a hard time deciding on what to order! This restaurant is known for its laid-back atmosphere. If a steak house is more your style, we recommend Grill 23 and Bar. This beautiful restaurant is known not only for its perfectly cooked steaks but for the desserts they offer as well. Once you’re done with your main course, make sure you order the PX Affogato. We hear it's to die for. 

Have you heard of Southie Sunday? Southie Sunday is a local tradition where locals say goodbye to the weekend by ending it on a high note with long brunches and strong drinks. This tradition has become increasingly popular as more and more young folks move to South Boston. A local favorite for a fantastic brunch is Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant, which offers delicious options like their carrot cake doughnuts and maple-cider braised bacon called Chronic Bacon. Looking for something else to do on a Sunday? Visit the famous Cheers bar located at 84 Beacon Street!

You can catch a performance at the Boston Ballet and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The city also hosts fun festivals like the Boston Art Festival, the Boston Book Festival, and the Boston Harborfest, celebrating Boston's maritime and revolutionary history. For live music, check out Brighton Music Hall and The Sinclair.

We can't forget comedy clubs! Boston has a great selection of comedy clubs like ImprovBoston, Laugh Boston, and The Comedy Studio. Legends like Steve Carell, Amy Poehler, and Conan O’Brien got their start here!

Of course, you must visit Harvard and MIT. These campuses are located in Cambridge, across the Charles River. They offer exhibitions showcasing their academic achievements. In addition, both campuses are known for their stunning architecture. 

Boston also offers options to enjoy the city after dark. 

Whether you're looking for music, bars, or clubs, the nightlife here caters to different tastes. Back Bay is known for being the home to many upscale bars, offering a sophisticated environment where you can enjoy casual conversation. The Seaport District is the place to go for rooftop venues with views of the Boston skyline. Harvard Square attracts younger folks with a mix of live music venues and bars. Less than fifteen minutes away, you'll find Bukowski Tavern, a dive bar where you can spin the beer wheel to select a beer for you if you can't make a decision.

If you’d like to do a fun tour, don’t forget to check out the Boston Brewery, home of the very famous Samuel Adams. It’s the second top-producing brewery in the nation, just behind Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville, PA. Enjoying a Samuel Adams Boston Lager is a must!

With so much history to learn about, fantastic sports teams to cheer on, an incredibly diverse culinary scene, and beautiful scenery to admire, we don’t blame you for wanting to become a Bostonian.

The city has a variety of options to choose from when it comes to transportation. 

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority operates subway, bus, and commuter rail services in the Greater Boston area, providing access to many destinations around the city. The MBTA also operates ferry routes to islands like Charlestown and Boston Harbor Island and is a popular option among residents. 

Boston loves cyclists, offering designated bike lanes and bike-friendly infrastructure. The city also has many pedestrian-friendly streets, especially downtown, making walking an enjoyable experience while admiring the city's historic buildings. So no, you don’t necessarily need to find a place to “pahk the cah” here.

For those who live outside the immediate city, Boston offers the commuter rail system as an option, connecting you to suburbs around the region. Amtrak also operates various train routes from its North and South stations, offering travel options throughout the U.S.

If you’d like to take a longer trip or even travel internationally, Boston Logan Airport is conveniently located just 20 minutes away from the downtown area.

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Economy

With several sectors contributing to its growth, Boston is known to have a robust and diverse economy. Its well-educated workforce, strong research institutions, and vibrant culture make it an attractive destination for businesses and individuals alike.

The current unemployment rate is 3.3%, and the average annual salary is around $67,468, or $32.44 per hour. 

The monthly cost for a family of four living in the city is approximately $4,620, according to the website Numbeo. This number does not include rent or a mortgage.

Here are some of the top industries in Boston:

  • Tourism and Hospitality: Boston is a major destination for tourists, with so many historic sites, museums, and cultural attractions drawing visitors from all over the world. The city's thriving hospitality industry provides many jobs.
     
  • Finance: With a robust financial sector, the city is home to many banks, investment firms, and other financial services companies. Boston is also a significant center for legal and professional services, with many law firms, consulting firms, and other professional services companies based in the city.
     
  • Education and healthcare: As the home to many world-renowned universities, including MIT, Harvard, and Boston University, the city is known as a significant center for healthcare and biotechnology.
     
  • Technology: With many established companies and startups specializing in cybersecurity, and software development, Boston is also a vital center for technology. The city's proximity to research institutions and top universities, as well as having a highly-educated workforce, make it an attractive destination for tech companies.
     
  • Creative industries: Many artists, musicians, and writers have relocated here as it has become the home to a booming creative sector. Industries like music, film, theater, and publishing contribute to the city's vibrant cultural scene and provide many job opportunities for creatives.

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Boston had a Gross Domestic Product of around $444,402 in 2021.

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Robust Sports Culture!

Sports play a significant role in Boston! The city is home to a few popular professional sports teams, including The Boston Red Sox, one of the country's most popular and successful baseball teams. The team has won an impressive total of nine World Series championships! Fans love catching their games at the famous Fenway Park.

The city is also home to one of the most well-known franchises in the NBA, the Boston Celtics. This amazing team has won a record 17 championships! A fan favorite, Larry Bird, led the team to three championships in the 1980s. You can see a Celtics game at TD Garden. Hockey fans can also watch a Boston Bruins game here. The team has won six Stanley Cup championships!

Let's not forget about football! Having won six Superbowl championships, the New England Patriots are known to have the support of incredibly passionate fans. The Patriots play home games at Gilette Stadium. The team's home games are always packed, and fans from all over come to cheer them on.

In addition to these professional teams, Boston is also home to several college sports teams, including the Boston College Eagles and the Boston University Terriers. The city also hosts several major sports events each year, including the Boston Marathon, the oldest continuously run marathon in the world. 

If you’re looking for a sports-related activity to do with your friends and family, note that the city is home to The Sports Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Boston sports and look at impressive memorabilia and artifacts.

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Real Estate

The real estate market in Boston is competitive and dynamic, with a mix of historic homes, modern apartments, and new developments. Due to the city's high demand and limited housing inventory, the city has seen a steady increase in home prices which are now higher than the national average. 

The land here is limited due to the city's historical architecture and compact urban layout. The fact that this is a relatively compact city with a well-designed layout contributes to the competitiveness of the market, driving up prices. 

The most popular neighborhoods include Beacon Hill, South End, and North End, all known for their historic homes and top-notch amenities. Other popular choices for real estate include the Seaport District, a rapidly developing waterfront area, and Cambridge, home to several universities and high-tech companies.

Many of the new developments in Boston are condominiums or apartments, reflecting the changing preferences of younger buyers and renters who value convenience, amenities, and walkability. As a result, the market can be attractive to investors who see the potential for rental income and capital appreciation.

Boston has a wide range of options for renters, from luxury high-rise apartments to more affordable options in the city's many neighborhoods.

  • The median home value is $610,400.
  • The median rent is $1,783.
  • Around 35% of residents are homeowners.

Given the complexities and competitiveness of the Boston real estate market, it is recommended to work with experienced real estate agents, brokers, or legal professionals to navigate the process effectively.

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Places To Live

Driven by a strong job market, Boston's population has been growing steadily and is currently the home of over 7000,000 residents. Most of its residents are renters.

Boston's neighborhoods have their own distinct character and charm. From the historic streets of Beacon Hill to the eclectic vibe of Jamaica Plain, each neighborhood offers a unique sense of community. 

With the assistance of a great real estate agent, you'll probably consider some of the following counties and neighborhoods:

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Essex

Located in the northeastern part of the state, Essex County is known for its significant role in American history, including the Salem Witch Trials. The town of Salem is located here and attracts many history buffs throughout the year. It's the third most populous county in the state. 

The job market here offers opportunities in many sectors like Healthcare, Technology, Education, and Retail. 

According to the Niche website, Essex County has an overall B+ grade and above-average schools, so it's considered a good area to raise a family. 

Some of the top activities here are practicing archery at Archer Artemis and catching a movie at Topsfield Drive-in.

Some neighborhoods here are:

  • Andover: A midsize city ranked as the #1 place to live in Essex County. Known for its rich history and historical landscapes.
     
  • Beverly: Conveniently located close to many major Boston cities, making it easy to commute. Known for properties with water views and easy access to the beach.
     
  • Marblehead: Known for recreational boating and kayaking. This area has beautiful, well-preserved historic homes.
     
  • Peabody: Known as one of the best places to enjoy retirement! It's primarily a residential area and offers convenient access to the metro area.
     
  • Swampscott: Offers diverse real estate options from waterfront to rural properties. Residents enjoy a variety of dining options here.

Here are some facts about Essex County, according to the website Niche:

  • The median home value is $462,900.
  • The median rent is $1,392.
  • Around 64% of residents are homeowners.

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Middlesex

Known for being the home of MIT and Harvard, Middlex makes Boston the #1 student city in the U.S. Here, you'll be surrounded by some of the brightest people in the world. Unsurprisingly, public schools in Middlesex received an A+ grade from the website Niche. 

This county attracts many professionals as it's the state's economic powerhouse. 

Due to its mix of urban, suburban, and rural areas, this suburb attracts a variety of people and is considered to be the best county in Boston, with an impressive A+ Niche grade.

Fun activities here include enjoying some homemade ice cream and indoor mini golf at Trombetta’s Farm, seeing animals at Stone Zoo,  and of course, taking a tour of the world-famous Harvard University. A self-guided tour is offered on their mobile app, Visit Harvard.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods to live in:

  • Acton: A suburban neighborhood offering a family-friendly atmosphere. This suburb has a mix of conservation land and wooded areas.
  • Concord: Known for its literary heritage, having been the home of Ralph Waldo and Louisa May Alcott. You can find vibrant cultural scenes and beautiful landscapes.
  • Lexington: Known for its highly regarded school system and offers colonial-style homes.
  • Newton: Offers several housing options and has a strong sense of community. Here, you'll find a mix of commercial center and residential areas.
  • Winchester: Known for its comfortable suburban lifestyle and quaint downtown area.

Consider these facts, according to the Niche website:

  • The median home value is $575,500.
  • The median rent is $1,815.
  • Around 62% of residents are homeowners.

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Norfolk

Having earned an A grade from the website Niche, over 95% of residents own their home in Norfolk. It's said to be one of the best places to live in Massachusetts. Local amenities include libraries and parks. 

Norfolk is home to the Blue Hills Reservation, a popular destination for hikers. The highest point in the county, known as Great Blue Hill, can be found here. You're sure to enjoy panoramic views of the Boston skyline here. 

Fun activities to do here are getting your adrenaline pumping at Rusty Wallace Racing Experience to get an authentic NASCAR experience and learn about New England Patriots’ history and relive their wins at the Patriots Hall of Fame. You can even host birthday parties here! 

If you're interested in living in Norfolk County, here are some neighborhoods for you to consider:

  • Brookline: Brookline is home to Fisher Hill, an upscale residential area, and is known for its tree-lined streets and vibrant community.
     
  • Dover: Known for its focus on preserving its natural surroundings. You can find estate-like properties here.
  • Medway: Here, you'll find friendly residents, and the area is known for being a great place to raise a family. It features a mix of condos, townhouses, and single-family homes.
     
  • Milton: Situated just south of Boston, Milton is known for its architectural heritage and cultural events, including festivals, concerts, and art exhibits. This neighborhood is well-connected to major roadways and public transportation.
     
  • Westwood: Its location (southwest of Boston) makes it an attractive choice for individuals and families seeking a suburban lifestyle near the city. Westwood has several parks and recreational facilities for residents to enjoy.

Here are some housing market facts, according to Niche:

  • The median home value is $529,200.
  • The median rent is $1,781.
  • Around 68% of residents are homeowners.

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Suffolk

This county was named after Suffolk, England, and is located in the eastern part of the state. Its name means “southern folk.”  

Suffolk County earned an A grade from the website Niche thanks to its nightlife, diversity, and for being good for families. This is one of the reasons why this area has had a strong appreciation over time.  

Many students decide to rent here because of its close proximity to the downtown area and for being less than an hour away from their college campus. With both MIT and Harvard located in Cambridge, rent prices there have become unaffordable to many students. For comparison, the average rent in Cambridge is $2,380, compared to Suffolk County’s average of around $1,700.

Some fun things to do here are visiting the Massachusetts State House or Tenean Beach for family fun.

Here are some of the most well-known neighborhoods in this county:

  • Back Bay: Locals say Back Bay has everything a young professional can ask for because it's easily accessible and has a wide variety of dining options. This neighborhood is famous for its Victorian brownstone buildings. Back Bay is known to be upscale and a highly desirable place to live in Boston.
  • Bay Village: A small community offering a close-knit atmosphere. Known for eye-catching townhouses and rowhouses.
  • Charlestown: Situated along the banks of Mystic River, Charlestown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the metro area. You'll find Federal-style homes here.
  • Jamaica Plain: This neighborhood has a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, with residents from various cultures and backgrounds. You can find an interesting mix of architectural styles, from Victorian-era homes to modern apartments.
  • West End: Residents and visitors have easy access to the downtown area, thanks to its convenient location. Known for its urban living, this area has many modern apartment complexes and condominiums to choose from.

Here are some housing facts to consider when moving to Suffolk County:

  • The median home value is $576,300.
  • The median rent is $1,761.
  • Around 35% of residents are homeowners.

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Next Steps

Now that you know where you'd like to look in the Boston area, it's time to connect with a real estate agent.

Buying a property involves numerous legal and financial intricacies. Working with a highly rated and reliable agent can save you time, reduce stress, and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.

We're partnered with the best real estate agents from various excellent brokerages in the Boston metro area who can provide valuable insight and help you make informed decisions.

Get the process started by giving us a call at 855-531-5347 or by clicking on "Find an Agent" below to fill out the form. First, a friendly member of the PrimeStreet team will ask you a few questions about where you want to move, your budget, and your moving timeframe. Then, our exclusive match algorithm will connect you to an experienced real estate agent in Boston who is specialized in your needs and what you’re looking for in just a few minutes.

What are you waiting for? A big move takes a lot of planning and can be stressful, but with the help of one of our real estate agents, you’ll be a Bostonian in no time!

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