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What does your salary buy in Boston?

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Cost of Living in Boston, U.S.A.

Education and biotech hub. MIT, Harvard. Historic city with high salaries.

Currency
USD ($)
English Level
Excellent
Healthcare
Private (employer-based)

Rental Prices in Boston

1-Bedroom Apartment
$2,000 - $3,900
per month
2-Bedroom Apartment
$2,500 - $4,600
per month

* Prices shown are second-hand rental market rates, typical for expats.9 neighborhoods tracked. Source: HUD Fair Market Rents (2025/2026).

Monthly Living Costs

Groceries
$600
Transport
$90
Utilities
$342
Dining Out
$360

Data from official statistics and local surveys.

Popular Neighborhoods

Back Bay
Boston's most prestigious address. Victorian brownstones, Newbury Street shopping, and the Charles River.
10 min walk•$3,400+/mo
South End
Victorian row houses and foodie paradise. LGBTQ+-friendly with excellent restaurants and SoWa market.
10 min metro•$3,200+/mo
Cambridge
Home to Harvard and MIT. Academic atmosphere, bookstores, and diverse dining in Harvard Square.
15 min metro•$3,100+/mo
Beacon Hill
Historic cobblestone streets and gas lamps. Classic Boston elegance near the State House and Boston Common.
5 min walk•$3,300+/mo
Somerville
Hip alternative to Cambridge. Davis Square nightlife, diverse food scene, and artist community.
20 min metro•$2,700+/mo
Jamaica Plain
Diverse progressive community. Jamaica Pond, Centre Street shops, and excellent Latin American food.
25 min metro•$2,400+/mo

Work Visa

H-1B for specialty occupations (lottery). L-1 for intra-company transfer. O-1 for extraordinary ability.

Processing: 3-12 months (H-1B lottery in April)

Relocation Costs

Usually first+last month + security deposit. Credit check required (~$25-50). No agent fees in most markets.

Typical deposit: 2 months rent

Enter your salary above to see a personalized breakdown of your finances in Boston

Our calculator shows net income after taxes, affordable neighborhoods, and savings potential

Data last updated: January 2026•View methodology

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Guides for Boston

  • US Health Insurance for Expats: What You Need to KnowNavigate the complex American healthcare system. Learn about insurance options, costs, and how to get coverage as an expat moving to the USA.
    Healthcare9 min read
  • Moving Abroad Checklist: Everything You Need to DoThe complete checklist for relocating internationally - from 6 months before to your first week abroad. Documents, finances, housing, and more.
    Planning14 min read
View all guides →

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Frequently Asked Questions about Boston

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Updated Jan 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Jan 2026 rent data