Situated in the northeast of the United States, Boston is the capital and largest city of Massachusetts. It's rather compact for a major city, but small as it may be, 'Beantown' packs oodles of character and charm. The city straddles the Charles River which spills into the famous Boston Harbour, and it boasts plenty of greenery. Newcomers moving to Boston will discover a city with an American appeal and distinctly European undertones. 

Living in Boston as an expat

Boston is one of America's oldest cities and has retained the colonial roots of its British founders. Cafés, museums, bookshops and pubs line the walkable and quaint city neighbourhoods, and there's a lot to see and do in Boston. 

While Los Angeles has the glitz, New York City the money, and DC the power, Boston has the brains. This academically driven city is home to some of the country's best universities, hospitals and research centres, including Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). As Boston's population is highly educated, technology and research industries seek to take advantage of its workforce.

While accommodation in Boston is expensive and difficult to find, there is a range of options to choose from. It is recommended for new arrivals to find a place to live with good access to public transport, as most Bostonians opt to utilise public transport rather than brave the congested roads each day. 

The lifestyle in Boston is relaxed but offers a trendy vibe, and newcomers have plenty to keep them busy. In Boston, one can sample food from across the world or indulge in traditional Bostonian cuisine, which centres on seafood. Those looking for a night out on the town will discover that nightlife in Boston is made up of cosy bars and exciting live music venues.

Cost of living in Boston

The city's myriad charms come with one of the highest costs of living in the US, chiefly driven up by the exorbitant prices of accommodation. That said, with one of the country's most highly educated and competitive workforces, salaries are usually high enough to ensure a comfortable life.

Families and children in Boston

Great education and public schools, attractive neighbourhoods and plenty of green spaces make Boston popular with families. Active families appreciate the many running, hiking or biking trails around the city. At the same time, sports enthusiasts can join in and support local teams such as the Celtics, Patriots and the famous Boston Red Sox. 

Climate in Boston

Boston's weather can be extreme. In general, summers are humid and sunny, with average daytime highs in July reaching 82°F (28°C). Winter months are freezing, wet and windy, with snowfall being common.

Moving to Boston is ideal for those looking to live in America's centre of science, technology and industry. Yet, for all of its innovation, Boston is rooted in well-established institutions coupled with an old-world ambience: the perfect city in which to raise a family.

Boston has a humid continental climate, and new arrivals relocating here can expect extremes on both ends of the scale, with hot summers and freezing winters. Temperature variations can occur, and even unseasonal snowfalls have been known to happen.

Boston is known for its distinctive seasons, with spring ranging from late March to May, summer from June to August, autumn from September to November and winter from December to early March.

In general, summers are humid and sunny, with average daytime highs in July reaching 82°F (28°C). Winter months are frigid, wet and windy, and snowfall is common. The level of snowfall in Boston varies yearly, and it can snow at any time during the winter.

Boston has a diverse economy accompanied by an educated workforce, which has attracted many top companies to the city. Newcomers who are working in Boston and want to be successful here must continuously upskill to stay ahead of the competition.

Job market in Boston

Boston is a centre of education in the US, and its universities and colleges are significant contributors to Boston's economy. For foreigners qualified in education, Boston offers an attractive job market. These educational facilities have also put the city at the forefront of technology development, attracting major players in the technology industry to the city. 

Top employers in Boston include the biotechnology industry, higher education, healthcare (including research), and the finance and technology industries. Tourism and hospitality are significant sectors, while law enforcement and federal agencies are also major employers in the city. 

Although they should expect competition to be fierce, new arrivals with the relevant experience and qualifications in these fields will likely find opportunities.

Finding a job in Boston

For new arrivals looking to work in Boston, there are numerous online job portal sites and recruitment agencies to help with the process. As mentioned, the city's job market is highly educated and competitive, and many of the top employers seek candidates who stand out from their peers.

Newcomers wanting to work in Boston should ensure that they have a relevant work permit for the USA.

Work culture in Boston

The job market in Boston centres largely on skilled jobs requiring specialist knowledge. Salaries are generally higher than the national average, although Boston also has a high cost of living. 

Boston very much falls in the work-hard-play-hard category, and most employers reward their staff with substantial benefits and leave days. Boston employers also invest heavily in the continued education and training of their employees, which tends to limit staff turnover and promote a healthy corporate culture. Talented and hard-working newcomers will stand out and can rise through the ranks.

Finding accommodation in Boston can be a difficult task. The compact city centre receives an annual influx of university students, increasing housing competition. The high property prices continue to make Boston one of the country's priciest places to buy or rent a home. Nevertheless, with a bit of patience and determination, new arrivals are likely to find their ideal accommodation in Boston.

Areas and suburbs in Boston

There are plenty of diverse areas and suburbs for house hunters in Boston to choose from. When searching for a property in Boston, newcomers should consider the proximity of their home to their place of work and their children’s school. Access to public transport is also essential for those who don't own a vehicle.

Young professionals looking to save a few bucks while taking advantage of Boston's spectacular views should look no further than East Boston. This waterfront neighbourhood offers beautiful views of Boston's skyline, is in proximity to Logan Airport and is a short drive away from downtown. One of Boston's oldest and most famous neighbourhoods, Charlestown is another fantastic area for young professionals who want excellent public transport links and access to the city's lifestyle amenities. 

Jamaica Plain is the perfect neighbourhood for families, young professionals and singles looking to enjoy the artsy side of life and form part of a close-knit community. With exceptional schools, plenty of green spaces, restaurants and cafés, Cambridge is well suited to families and those looking for a quieter neighbourhood. Somerville, Fenway and Newton are some more family-friendly suburbs in Boston. 

See Areas and Suburbs in Boston for more on the city's different neighbourhoods.

Types of accommodation in Boston

There is a diversity of housing options in Boston, and expats can typically choose between large family homes, apartments and brownstone rowhouses.

Brownstones/rowhouses

Brownstones are mostly historical homes built in the late 1800s. They are usually three or four storeys high and are typically constructed in a row with street-facing fronts. These are found in more affluent areas such as Back Bay, North End and Beacon Hill and are highly sought-after. This means they tend to be on the pricier side. Although spacious and well-built, car owners should note that these homes typically don't have off-street parking.

Apartments

There are a variety of apartment types in Boston, from high-rise residential blocks to more exclusive condo or loft options. These buildings often include amenities such as air conditioning, central heating and laundry facilities. Apartments are a popular form of accommodation in Boston. It's worth noting that while apartments near downtown are typically snatched up by university students, the turnover rate is high. 

Detached houses

Detached or stand-alone houses in Boston are primarily found in residential areas in the city's outer suburbs. There are many options, from large family homes to smaller units. Houses can be expensive in Boston, but they are popular with students looking for a house-share to bring down rent costs. Demand for houses is therefore high, so it can take some time to find the right home, particularly before the start of the academic year.

Finding accommodation in Boston

New arrivals will have several resources at their disposal. Online property portals are a valuable source of information when it comes to getting an idea of typical prices. Another option is to utilise the services of a reputable estate agent. House hunters should note that agencies typically charge upwards of a month's rent as their commission.  

Renting accommodation in Boston

Once newcomers have found their ideal home, they will need to make an application to rent. If approved, they must then sign the lease and pay the deposit.

Making an application

With the high demand for accommodation in Boston, landlords can afford to be picky about whom they rent to. When applying, aspirant renters should be prepared to provide proof of their financial capacity to pay the rent. They may also have to undergo a credit check.

Leases, costs and fees

In Boston, the standard rental contract is 12 months. At the end of the rental term, leases can either be renewed or ended by either party. A month’s rent is usually required as a deposit. In addition, the first and the last month’s rent is often required to be paid upfront to secure the property.

Read Accommodation in the USA for more on national rental processes.

Utilities

When signing a lease in Boston, it’s essential to read the contract carefully and to establish precisely what is included in the rental agreement. Tenants will typically be responsible for paying their own utility bills. 

Electricity

Boston operates a deregulated electricity market, and newcomers are free to shop around for the best rates possible. There are two options available for electricity supply in Boston: community choice electricity and purchasing directly from a utility supplier. Community choice electricity is when a town or community officials negotiate with a supply plan on behalf of the residents and businesses.

Eversource Energy is the leading electricity in Boston, and they handle all the billing administration in the city. New arrivals can set up or transfer their electricity by contacting Eversource online or through their customer service line. They will need to provide their new address, social security number, phone number and email address. Tenants can also set up an account online on Eversource's website to conveniently pay their monthly electric bill. 

Gas

The National Grid provides the natural gas in Boston. The company recommends that new arrivals schedule appointments to start their service a week before their expected moving date. They will then send a technician to physically turn the service on and inspect its safety. Newcomers can call the company's customer service line between Monday and Friday during working hours to schedule an appointment. 

Similarly to electricity, payments for gas can be made through one's digital account on the National Grid's website or through the bank and in person at various locations throughout the city. 

Water

Most of Boston's drinking water supply is sourced from the Quabbin and the Wachusett Reservoirs. The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) manages the water supply in the city. To start the service, tenants will need a valid account number and activation code, which their landlords can supply. Additionally, they will also need to provide their email address. Water bills can be paid online, in person, through the mail or at a local BWSC office. 

Bins and recycling

The City of Boston Public Works oversees waste management in the city. New arrivals to the city can download the Trash Day App to find out about the collection schedule in their neighbourhood. Residents are encouraged to place their bins outside after 5pm the evening before their scheduled collection day. Tenants must purchase and replace their own bins if they get damaged. 

For hazardous household waste, the city publishes collection schedules; for appliances, tenants can request a pickup online or by calling the Public Works department. New arrivals should be aware that this service will come at a fee. Tenants can simply leave their old furniture items on the curbside on their regular collection days, and they will be picked up then. 

The City of Boston supplies apartment buildings with six units or fewer with a recycling container; property managers or building owners for larger apartment buildings will typically purchase recycling containers from the city and receive a Boston 311 sticker. The Trash Day App provides a comprehensive list of recyclable items and those that are not accepted by the city. 

Internet

As is the case in the rest of the US, Boston boasts an excellent internet infrastructure and has several suppliers that new arrivals can choose from. Verizon, Earthlink and NetBlazr are among the most popular among residents. 

Useful links

• Eversource and National Grid have further information on connecting electricity and natural gas. 
• To connect your water service, visit the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC). 
• The City of Boston Public Works Department offers detailed information on recycling and downloading the Trash Day App.

The best places to live in Boston

Boston is a small and compact city, and most suburbs are well served by the city's comprehensive public transport system.

There are several attractive areas and suburbs in Boston where newcomers can choose to settle, both within the city itself and in the surrounding towns. The majority of new arrivals decide to rent rather than buy property in Boston. Unfortunately, the city is one of the most expensive in the US and rental costs are high.

Family-friendly suburbs in Boston

For newcomers moving with children, finding a home close to a good school will be a priority. Many of Boston's family-friendly neighbourhoods – and some of the city's best schools – are located outside the city limits.

Westborough

Located west of Boston, Westborough is a family-friendly town with a strong community spirit and plenty of local events taking place on weekends. Westborough is home to some excellent schools, which is why many local and newly arrived families decide to live here. The town is about 45 minutes by car from Boston's city centre and well served by the MBTA commuter rail services. It is also well located in relation to major highways such as Interstate 90, Route 30 and Route 9.

Newton

Newton is a safe and vibrant town located just outside Boston that is popular with families thanks to its exceptional public schools. This town is convenient for those working in the city but who want to live in a quieter area. It's one of the wealthiest urban areas in Boston, so property prices are inescapably steep, but for those with the proper budget, it's a wonderful place to raise a family.

Brookline

Brookline is a town located close to Boston and bordered by suburbs such as Jamaica Plain, Allston and West Roxbury. The area has historically been home to some of the best schools in Massachusetts, and there are also exceptional healthcare facilities, parks, shops and entertainment, making it a popular residential neighbourhood for families. Brookline is also well serviced by the MBTA train and bus routes.

Young and trendy areas in Boston

As Boston is home to several universities, many of the city's suburbs are filled with students. Rental costs in these areas tend to be a little lower, and they have a lively feel to them.

Wellesley

Wellesley is a town outside of Boston that is popular with young professionals and students owing to its proximity to numerous colleges and universities, including Wellesley College, Babson College and Olin College of Engineering. Many families are also attracted to Wellesley thanks to its excellent public schooling system.

The area is well covered by Boston's public transport network and is linked to Boston city centre by the commuter rail and some commuter express bus services.

Allston-Brighton

Allston-Brighton is popular with students and young professionals, as it's close to both Harvard and Boston universities. 

The area is home to some of Boston's best nightlife and is full of upscale eateries, bars and pool halls. In addition, Allston-Brighton is well-placed on public transport routes, allowing easy access to buses and trains.

Back Bay

Famous for its nightlife and food scene, Back Bay is located on the outskirts of the Boston Commons and is the perfect base for young and single newcomers looking to socialise in their new city. While rent in this neighbourhood is particularly high, new arrivals will enjoy their proximity to the picturesque Charles River and exciting shopping streets. Back Bay is also home to Boston Public Library, which claims the title of the first public library in the USA. 

City living in Boston

For those who want to live in the city centre, there are plenty of options in Boston, but these tend to be quite pricey.

Charlestown

Charlestown is centrally located on the banks of Boston Harbour in the downtown area of Boston and is popular among young professionals who want to be within walking distance of their offices. The area is well served by public transport links, and newcomers living in Charlestown can easily get around on foot, by subway or bus. Charlestown has a lively atmosphere, and the area's streets are lined with bars, cafés and bakeries. Charlestown is the oldest suburb of Boston, and due to its central location, rents are high.

Hyde Park and Jamaica Plain

The suburbs of Hyde Park and Jamaica Plain (or JP as residents often refer to it) are located to the south of Boston and are known for their open green spaces. These neighbourhoods are home to ethnically diverse populations and are known for their community spirit. Both areas are served well by commuter rail, the subway and local bus services.

South End

South End is a cosmopolitan area of Boston popular with young professionals and families. Lined with brownstones, it has some of the most desirable real estate in the city, so rental prices tend to be steep. The area has a lively atmosphere, especially in the evening when residents congregate around Tremont Street, which is also known as 'Restaurant Row', as it is lined with a diversity of eateries.

Thanks to Boston's many prestigious universities, the city is a centre of medical research and is home to some of the best hospitals in the country. These mostly huddle together in the Longwood Medical Area, adjacent to the Fenway district. Some hospitals in Boston are excellent teaching hospitals affiliated directly with specific academic institutions.

Healthcare in Boston is overseen by the Boston Public Health Commission, the oldest health department in the US. The organisation is an independent public agency that provides a wide range of healthcare programmes and services.

Pharmacies are widely available in Boston, from large chain stores to smaller local outlets, some of which are open 24/7. Foreigners moving to Boston should ensure that they have a comprehensive health insurance plan to access the top medical facilities in the city.

Read Healthcare in the USA for more on the national healthcare system.

Below is a list of some of Boston's most respected hospitals.

Hospitals in Boston

Boston Children's Hospital

Website: www.childrenshospital.org
Address: 300 Longwood Ave, Boston

Brigham and Women's Hospital

Website: www.brighamandwomens.org
Address: 75 Francis Street, Boston

Massachusetts General Hospital

Website: www.massgeneral.org
Address: 55 Fruit Street, Boston

New England Boston Hospital

Website: www.nebh.org
Address: 125 Parker Hill Avenue, Boston

Tufts Medical Center

Website: www.tuftsmedicalcenter.org
Address: 800 Washington Street, Boston

Boston is arguably the heart of America's education system. It is home to many prestigious academic institutions, including Harvard and MIT, as well as the oldest public education system in the US. Education and schools in Boston are of the highest quality, and parents won't struggle to find a suitable school for their child. 

There are a variety of schools in Boston to choose from, including public, charter, pilot, private and international schools.

Public schools in Boston

Boston takes pride in its public education, and the local school system is highly regarded and well funded. Boston regularly places in the top five city school systems in the US.

Admissions for children from Kindergarten to Grade 8 level are based on a home-based school assignment plan, where parents select multiple schools within their catchment area and register accordingly. Placement at a school is then determined according to an algorithm, similar to a lottery, so parents are not guaranteed their child will be placed in their first choice of school. It's best to apply as early as possible to ensure the widest choice of schools. Children with siblings in a particular school are given priority at that school. 

The home-based school assignment plan doesn't apply to high schools, and children in high school in Boston can attend any school. There are also publicly funded charter and pilot schools in Boston that have greater control of their curriculum and teaching methods. That said, space in these schools is limited, and competition for placements is fierce. 

Read Education and Schools in the USA for more on the national education system.

Private and international schools in Boston 

There are many private schools in Boston. These range from the most prestigious prep and religious schools to schools offering more flexible teaching styles.

International schools offer foreign curricula, including French, German and British. Tuition fees are high at private and international schools and vary considerably between schools. While tuition fees at private and international schools may be high, these schools typically offer a more comprehensive range of extracurricular activities and top-class facilities and educators. 

Special-needs education in Boston

The city's education system is equipped to provide for students with learning and developmental disabilities. There are multiple federal laws in place in the US to ensure that children with disabilities have fair access to quality education at no cost, regardless of state. All of Boston's public schools boast a Resource/Learning Centre that is equipped to provide specialised and individualised instruction for up to 10 students. 

Both public and private schools usually have special programmes in place to support students with learning difficulties. In cases where a learner's disability is too severe for them to benefit from mainstream education, there are special education facilities that can offer students a special-needs programme tailored to meet their specific requirements. There are currently three public special-needs schools serving Boston's students who are living with disabilities. 

Tutors in Boston

Thanks to Boston's position as an educational powerhouse in the US, tutoring is popular among parents eager to get their children into the state's best universities. Whether a child has fallen behind in maths class or needs additional support to excel in their college entrance exams, there are plenty of private tutors available in Boston.

It's wise to start by asking the child's school or other parents in the area for a recommendation. Alternatively, one could utilise the services of established tutoring companies. These companies offer an array of packages, from subject-specific intensive programmes to one-on-one home tuition and small group sessions. 

Enlisting the services of a private tutor is an excellent opportunity for students to address any gaps in their knowledge, excel at a particular subject, or simply build confidence in their new environment.

International schools in Boston are ideal for newly arrived foreign families, as they offer curricula from foreign countries such as France, Germany and the UK. The language of instruction at these schools typically corresponds with its curriculum. In some cases, teaching is bilingual.

Newly arrived children generally feel more at home in international schools among peers who can identify with relocating to a new country. Attending a school with the same curriculum as the family's country of origin can ease the transition and also make for a smooth transition back should the family return.

Moreover, international schools typically offer exceptional facilities and teaching standards. The extracurricular activities on offer at these schools usually also boast a wider variety. Parents who are planning to send their children to international schools in Boston should budget carefully or negotiate for an education allowance as part of their relocation contracts, as international schools are known to be costly. 

While Boston has just a few international schools, parents will find that the high quality makes up for the relatively small selection.

International schools in Boston

British International School of Boston

The British International School of Boston offers its students a global school community where learning is advanced to drive student success. As a member of the Nord Anglia Education Group, BISB personalises learning to individual student needs while leveraging its international community to develop global leaders. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum and Cambridge IGCSE), International Primary Curriculum and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 1.5 to 18
Website: www.nordangliaeducation.com/our-schools/boston

Ecole Française Greater Boston

With 400 students of 25 nationalities, Ecole Française Greater Boston is a truly international school offering an educational environment that nurtures social-emotional development and fosters life-long learning. The school believes in holistically developing children and, as such, offers music, art and art history as well as sports programmes. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French
Ages: 21 months to 15 
Website: www.efgboston.org

German International School of Boston

Offering a fully bilingual education in Boston, the German International School of Boston is a school that fosters culturally aware and socially confident global leaders. Students at the German International School of Boston can graduate with either the German International Arbitur or the US High School Diploma and learn in both German and English. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German and American
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.gisbos.org

International School of Boston

The International School of Boston prizes multilingualism and offers programmes in English, French, Spanish and Chinese at different grade levels. Over and above the school's rigorous academic programming, ISB offers a variety of extracurricular activities, from athletics and basketball to fencing and archery. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.isbos.org

Boston's warm and friendly atmosphere will make new arrivals feel right at home. People of all persuasions find that the lifestyle in Boston houses attractions to suit their tastes. From shopping, exciting nightlife and world-class sporting facilities to a fabulous variety of restaurants, newcomers in Boston won't be at a loss for things to do.

Shopping in Boston

Newcomers in need of some retail therapy will enjoy perusing Boston's shopping districts and many boutiques, department stores, malls and outlets. While many local goods can be found at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, other well-known shopping areas include the affluent Newbury Street and Beacon Hill, which is known for its antiquities.  

Eating out in Boston

Boston residents are spoilt for choice. They can pick and choose between a diversity of flavours from a range of restaurants. With a large Irish community, it's not difficult to find fantastic Irish fare in the city's many Irish pubs. There are also many Italian restaurants to explore, along with countless Asian and other ethnic restaurants. Local cuisine consists of seafood from the New England coast, such as clam chowder and lobster. Burger and take-out joints are common, and the city has a thriving food truck scene.

Entertainment and nightlife in Boston

While most Bostonians prefer more relaxed evenings, the city's large student population enjoys nights out on the town, and bar hopping is popular. Lansdowne Street has traditionally been a well-loved nightlife spot, with many bars and clubs to enjoy. 

Boston's arts scene is also well worth exploring. The Theatre District is home to an array of theatres with regular performances to rival New York's Broadway. As there are many restaurants in the area, new arrivals can enjoy a full night out of theatre and dining. Cambridge and Watertown, just outside Boston, also boast many theatrical productions, while the Boston Common hosts open-air productions during the summer months.

Outdoor and sporting activities in Boston

Boston is a sports-mad city, home to several major league sporting teams, including the Boston Red Sox baseball team and the New England Patriots football team. Bostonians are passionate about supporting their teams during major games. 

Newcomers can also enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle in the summer months thanks to Boston's many public parks. Boston Common is the oldest city park in the US and is adjacent to the equally famous Public Garden. Other green spaces ideal for exploration with the whole family include the Charles River Esplanade, Jamaica Pond and the Arnold Arboretum.

See and do in Boston

With one of the country's highest concentrations of national historic landmarks, Boston has plenty of attractions to visit. It's a city of many American 'firsts', with the city having established the first American subway system, public health department, public school, public park and free municipal library. But apart from its many historical attractions, the city is also blessed with lush parks, hiking trails and interesting museums.

Below are some of the best things to see and do in Boston. 

Black Heritage Trail

As Massachusetts was among the first states to abolish slavery in 1783, Boston developed a strong abolitionist Black community primarily made up of freed and escaped slaves. The Black Heritage Trail meanders past more than 15 sites illustrating local Black history, including museums, meeting places and the homes of important figures in the emancipation struggle. 

Boston Public Garden

The Boston Public Garden is a tranquil park famed as the country's first public botanical garden. Situated in the heart of Boston, it forms part of the city's famed 'Emerald Necklace' of parks. The garden offers scenic walking routes and boat rides on the lagoon. 

Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum

This interactive, family-friendly attraction allows visitors to learn about and re-enact the Boston Tea Party, a 1773 demonstration by a group of American revolutionaries. These revolutionaries stormed British ships carrying tea and threw their cargo overboard as a protest against unfair taxation. This event was critical to the start of the War of Independence.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

The Faneuil Hall Marketplace has been in operation since the 18th century and features designer stores, restaurants, cafés, stalls and even performing entertainers such as jugglers, mimes and musicians. 

Museum of Fine Arts

A beautiful building in its own right, the Museum of Fine Arts houses nearly 450,000 artworks by some of the world's most renowned artists in history, including Manet, Degas and Van Gogh.

What's on in Boston

Boston has a lively calendar that celebrates its many cultures and keeps both locals and expats entertained. With such a broad and diverse range of events, there really is something for everyone.

Here's a selection of popular yearly festivals and celebrations taking place in Boston.

St Patrick's Day (March)

Ostensibly to commemorate the arrival of both Christianity and St Patrick in Ireland, 'St Paddy's Day' is also a means for Boston to celebrate its Irish heritage. This celebration is characterised by the festive spirit of its annual parade in South Boston, and local restaurants also join in on the festivities by offering traditional Irish dishes. The beer well and truly flows on St Paddy's.

Dragon Boat Festival (June)

The annual Dragon Boat Festival is a traditional Chinese festival that takes place each year along the banks of the Charles River. It sees thousands of visitors flocking to sample Asian fare, watch martial arts demonstrations, buy traditional Chinese arts and crafts, and of course, watch the dragon boat races.

Boston Pride Week (June)

Boston Pride Week is a period to raise awareness of Boston's LGBTQIA+ community and hold events in its honour, culminating in the Pride Parade. Diversity is embraced, and people from all walks of life are welcome to attend the parade.

Boston Harborfest (July)

With dozens of events such as concerts, re-enactments, walking tours and parties, the Boston Harborfest is a week-long event celebrating the United States' independence and heritage. The festival concludes on the 4th of July with a breathtaking fireworks display. 

Arlington International Film Festival (October)

The Arlington International Film Festival attracts movie buffs from all over and showcases both local and international independent films. Attendees are spoilt for choice, with around 50 films being screened at the event each year.

Educational activities in Boston

Boston features several educational and child-friendly activities that are perfect for any weather. The Children's Museum provides an interactive indoor playground where children learn through play. The Franklin Park Zoo allows children to connect with wildlife, while the New England Aquarium lets children meet the marine life that lives off of Boston's shores.

Moving to a new city can be daunting, and prospective Bostonians are sure to have many questions about what to expect when they arrive. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about life in Boston.

What is public transportation like in Boston?

Boston likes to call itself 'the walking city' as it's well situated for walking. A large portion of the residents use public transport for their commutes to work. One of the most famous aspects of the city is the subway, commonly referred to as 'the T'. It has four easily navigable lines that provide access to most sections of the city. A bus service and commuter train are also widely used, and a ferry connects city districts across the bay.

What is the weather like in Boston?

The weather in Boston varies dramatically between different seasons. Winters are bitterly cold, with frequent snowfall. About 42 inches (107cm) of snow falls annually. Summers are hot, reaching 82°F (28°C) in July. Many homes have both air conditioning and heaters.

What's the cost of living in Boston?

The cost of living in Boston is among the highest in the US. Although Boston's public transport is affordable, accommodation is a considerable expense. Thankfully, salaries in Boston are generally high, but newcomers to the city should ensure that their employers offer packages that meet the cost of living in Boston.

Is Boston safe?

Overall, Boston is safe, but like any large city, there are places to avoid. Public transportation is well policed, as is the city centre. A few high-end neighbourhoods hire their private security companies, but this is not typically necessary.

Will I need a car when I move to Boston?

This depends on where one lives. Many newcomers choose to live in a suburb, where a car is a necessity – particularly for those with children. Downtown Boston is compact, bike-friendly (flat), easily walkable, and residents can manage without a car, particularly since Uber and Lyft are so prevalent.

Parking in the city centre is difficult, so many residents choose to get around Boston by foot or public transport. It's also nice to have a car when it's cold and snowing hard, but you'll need a snow shovel in the winter if you park on the street.

Since it's a relatively compact city, getting around Boston is fairly easy on foot or using public transport. Although driving is often the most convenient option for travel outside Boston proper, most residents choose not to drive around the downtown area due to the traffic congestion, high parking fees and the city's confusing street design. 

New arrivals will find that there is a wealth of public transport options available in Boston, which will make getting to grips with the city much more manageable.

Public transport in Boston

Boston has an integrated public transport system run by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA). It's convenient and relatively inexpensive. The MBTA comprises the subway, buses, water shuttles and commuter rail.

The CharlieCard is a contactless smartcard that forms the basis of the MBTA payment system. There are a variety of options that allow commuters to pick a suitable package for their needs.

Subway

Boston’s subway, or ‘the T’, is composed of four colour-coded rail lines and the Mattapan Trolley. This comprehensive network covers all the main areas of the city. If using a CharlieCard for one-way rides, commuters get free transfers on most subway and local bus routes. The subway service typically starts at 5am and stops at around 1am in the morning.

Bus

Newcomers will find that while bus travel in Boston may be slower than using the subway, a bus ride will often be cheaper and take them closer to their final destination. There are also express buses in Boston that travel over longer distances. These are pricier than regular buses.

Ferries

The MBTA runs a commuter ferry service with eight terminal lines. There are also non-MBTA ferries and water taxis available at several ports.

Commuter rail

The commuter rail system in Boston is primarily used for travelling to towns outside the city. Since these trains are infrequent, it's much faster to use the subway when travelling in Boston. 

Taxis in Boston

Boston taxi fares are some of the priciest in the US. Unless one plans to share a taxi with a group of friends, it makes more sense to use the city's extensive public transport system.

Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft operate in Boston, and like regular taxis, they allow for more specific routes at a more affordable price. As Uber and Lyft services are charged directly to a user's bank account, they allow for travel without carrying cash. 

Walking in Boston

Boston is a relatively small and safe city, and many locals walk around the city centre. Walking allows visitors to see more of Boston than they would on the subway, although walking is not always easy in the winter months when the snow and wind can pose a significant obstacle to pedestrians.

Cycling in Boston

Bostonians love to cycle, and thanks to the city's small size and flat terrain, cycling is relatively easy (except in winter). Boston is a relatively cyclist-friendly city, though existing cycling infrastructure could use some expansion.

Driving in Boston

Navigating the streets of Boston is difficult for newcomers. Unlike other US cities, Boston’s streets do not follow a grid system or centre on a geographical feature like a river or lake. Many locals use public transport or taxis rather than driving, due to the traffic congestion in the city centre and the parking, which is both limited and expensive. Those who choose to drive will need to secure a local driving licence and budget for petrol, parking and vehicle maintenance fees.

Read Transport and Driving in the USA for more on securing a local driving licence.