Welcome to Beantown: 9 Things to Know About Living in Boston

So you’re thinking about moving to Boston? Wicked smaht choice. This New England gem blends old-world charm with modern-day buzz. From cobblestone streets and cutting-edge tech jobs, Ivy League history and booming biotech, Beantown has a bit of everything. 

Whether you’re relocating for school, work, or just craving that East Coast vibe, here are 10 things to know before you settle into Boston.

1. Jobs are booming in Boston. 

Living in Boston means being surrounded by some of the brightest minds and best career opportunities in the country. With top-tier schools like Harvard, MIT, and Boston University, it’s no surprise the city is known for its brainpower, but there’s way more than just homework happening here.

The Boston job market is buzzing across industries like tech, finance, education, and healthcare, with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. Whether you’re a student, academic, or young professional, living in Boston offers the perfect blend of career growth and city excitement.

2. The entire city has character. 

So what’s it like living in Boston? It’s like starring in your own historical-meets-modern sitcom. Picture yourself grabbing chowder from a street vendor while walking past buildings that have seen the American Revolution and then catching the Red Sox game later in the day.

There’s something for everyone: leafy green parks, bustling downtowns, cozy coffee shops, and a public transit system (hello, T!).

3. Moving there isn’t cheap.

Spoiler alert: moving to Boston isn’t the cheapest. But it’s also not Manhattan-level steep. The Boston moving cost can vary depending on where you’re relocating from and how much you’re bringing with you. 

Here’s a ballpark breakdown:

• Local move within/near Boston: $500–$1,500
• Cross-country move: $3,000–$8,000+
  

Pro tip: Save money (and your back) by renting furniture through CORT. It’s a smart solution for short-term stays or anyone who wants to ease into urban life in Boston without having to lift a finger (or a sofa).

4. The rental market is competitive.

Boston apartments go fast. Like, Fenway foul-ball fast. 

The Boston rental market is competitive, especially near universities or downtown. Make sure to start your search for an apartment or home early, and get comfy with neighborhoods (don’t worry, we’ll help with that below). Also, most leases turn over in September, so prepare for some real-life Tetris if you’re moving that time of year. 

5. Each neighborhood has its own personality. 

Choosing where to live in Boston is all about personality because each neighborhood has its own charm and flavor. Think of it like picking your perfect playlist: some are upbeat and buzzing, others are chill and cozy.

• Back Bay: Elegant brownstones, boutique shopping, and Insta-worthy city views.
• Southie (South Boston): Deep Irish roots, beach strolls, and proud, tight-knit vibes.
• Cambridge: Brainy and bookish with an academic edge (technically its own city, but Boston-adjacent enough to count).
• Jamaica Plain: Artsy, eclectic, and community-driven, with a love for green spaces and local cafés.
• Allston-Brighton: College-town energy, late-night eats, and a youthful crowd.
  

Whether you’re into quiet streets or city hustle, this Boston neighborhoods guide has you covered. Remember: there’s a corner of the city ready to feel like home to you.

6. Cost of living is steep (but worth it).

Time to dish the beans: living expenses in Boston, Massachusetts, can be high, but it’s all about perspective and smart planning. The average living expenses in Boston will vary based on your lifestyle and neighborhood, but here’s a quick snapshot:

• Rent: $2,500–$3,500 for a 1BR (neighborhood dependent)
• Utilities: ~$150/month
• Public Transit (T Pass): $90/month
• Lobster rolls and iced coffee budget: unlimited (kidding!)
  

If you’re moving from a smaller town, it may feel pricey. But with so much walkability and public transportation, you might not even need a car. That’s a major win for your wallet and even your stress levels.

7. You get to experience all four seasons.

One of the biggest perks of living in Boston is that you truly get to soak in all four seasons! We’re talking blazing fall foliage, cozy snow-dusted streets, blooming spring gardens, and sunny summers by the Charles River.

Each season brings its own charm and city vibe:

• Fall is sweater weather perfection (and peak apple-picking time).
• Winter means snowball fights on the Common and hot cocoa galore.
• Spring feels like a fresh start with cherry blossoms popping everywhere.
• Summer is for harbor cruises, Red Sox games, and beachy weekends on the Cape.

If you’re craving variety and love the idea of seasonal traditions, Boston’s climate makes living in Massachusetts feel like four cities in one.

8. Sports is a religion.

If you’re living in Boston, you better brush up on your sports lingo. This city eats, sleeps, and breathes team pride. Whether it’s the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, or Bruins, Bostonians are ride-or-die fans through every season.

• Fenway Park isn’t just a stadium, it’s a rite of passage.
• Rivalries run deep (looking at you, New York).
• Don’t be surprised if your neighborhood erupts after a big win.

Even if you’re not a superfan, the electric energy on game days is contagious. When you’re living in Boston, cheering along is practically part of the welcome package.

9. Getting around is easier than you think.

Navigating urban life in Boston is a breeze once you get the hang of it. In fact, Boston ranks as one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. 

The MBTA (a.k.a. “The T”) offers a web of trains, buses, and even ferries to get you where you need to go, whether it’s across the river to Cambridge or down to the Seaport. No car? No problem. In fact, parking in the city is famously tricky (and permit-heavy). Love to bike? There are bike lanes and Bluebikes all over town.

One of our top moving to Boston tips: skip the U-Haul stress and start your new city life car-free. Trust us, your future parallel-parking self will thank you.

Boston’s Got Room for You

When you weigh the pros and cons of Boston living, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this historic yet ever-evolving city. Sure, the winters are brisk and the rents can bite, but the culture, career opportunities, walkability, and downright charm more than make up for it.

Whether you’re moving for school, work, or just chasing that New England magic, Boston’s got a neighborhood — and a vibe — for you.

Boston might be historic, but how you tackle your move doesn’t have to be. CORT helps you settle in fast with smart, stylish furniture rentals, so you can enjoy the city’s charm without the chaos of furnishing from scratch. And for folks ready to furnish their home, the CORT Furniture Outlet offers sets of furniture for discounted pricing. Explore renting furniture online or explore your nearby CORT Furniture Outlet today!