Boston is an exciting city with a rich history, prestigious universities, and endless opportunities, but managing the cost of living can be challenging for students. Expenses can quickly pile up with everything from rent and groceries to transportation and entertainment. Understanding the cost of living in Boston will help you budget more effectively and make the most of your time in the city without breaking the bank. Whether you are a local or an international student, being smart about your spending can unlock the best of what Boston offers.
Cost Of Living Calculator
| Description | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Total Cost of Accommodation | 100 |
| Total Cost of Transport | 50 |
| Total Cost of Utilities | 30 |
| Total Cost of Food | 70 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 250 |
Average Cost Of Living In Boston
Boston is known for its vibrant food and nightlife scene, as well as its historical landmarks and museums. It mixes different cultures and neighbourhoods with many options for entertainment, recreation and cultural events. However, it can be relatively expensive for international students, especially for housing, and the weather can be harsh in the winter. It can be said that the average cost of living in Boston, USA for students ranges between $2,286 and $2,843 per month. Overall, living in Boston as an international student can be a challenging but rewarding experience.
Below is the monthly breakdown of the different living expenditures in Boston for students –
| Particulars | Cost (Monthly) |
| Off-Campus Accommodation | $1,800 – 2000 |
| On-Campus Accommodation | $1,200 – 1500 |
| Transportation | $100 – 150 |
| Food Cost | $400 – 450 |
| Entertainment | $60 – 80 |
| Groceries | $70 – 100 |
| Clothes | $108 – 120 |
| Health Insurance | $80 – 100 |
Cost Of Groceries In Boston
When studying in Boston, one of the critical aspects of managing your budget is understanding the cost of groceries. With its blend of premium grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and affordable supermarkets, Boston offers a variety of options to suit different spending habits. Whether preparing meals at home or grabbing essentials for a busy week, it’s important to know how much you can expect to spend on everyday items like fruits, vegetables, dairy, and more. This guide will give you a breakdown of typical grocery costs in Boston to help you plan your monthly expenses effectively.
| Items | Price |
| Chicken Fillets (1kg) | 8 – 15 |
| Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat) | 15 – 20 |
| Apples (1kg) | 3 – 6 |
| Banana (1kg) | 2 – 3 |
| Oranges (1kg) | 4 – 7 |
| Tomato (1kg) | 4 – 7 |
| Potato (1kg) | 2 – 5 |
| Onion (1kg) | 2 – 4 |
| Lettuce (1 head) | 2 – 4 |
| Water (1.5 litre bottle) | 1.50 – 3 |
| Bottle of Wine (Mid-Range) | 10 – 15 |
| Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro) | 12 – 14 |
| Milk (regular), (1 litre) | 0.92 – 2 |
| Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | 3 – 5 |
| Rice (white) (1kg) | 3 – 6 |
| Eggs (regular) (12) | 3 – 6 |
| Local Cheese (1kg) | 11 – 20 |
Cost Of Transportation In Boston
Boston’s bustling cityscape requires a good understanding of its transportation system and costs. Whether you plan to use public transport or rely on rideshares, understanding the cost of getting around is key to budgeting your time and money.
| Mode of Transport | Fare |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2.40 – 4.50 |
| Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | 90 – 130 |
| Taxi 1 hour Waiting (Normal Tariff) | 28 – 30 |
Cost Of Entertainment, Eating Out & Sports
Boston is a city that thrives on culture, sports, and culinary experiences, offering endless opportunities for entertainment, dining out, and sporting events. Below we have provided a breakdown of the typical expenses for entertainment, dining, and sports in Boston, helping you manage your budget while making the most of the city’s lively lifestyle.
| Activity | Price |
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | 80 – 185 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend) | 30 – 50 |
| Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat | 15 – 21 |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | 20 – 50 |
| Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course | 100 – 200 |
Cost Of Accommodation In Boston
Finding the right accommodation in Boston can be both exciting and challenging, with options ranging from on-campus university housing to off-campus apartments. We have given a breakdown of the accommodation costs in Boston, helping you make an informed decision while settling into city life.
| Housing Type | Cost Range (per month) |
| On-Campus Housing | |
| University Halls | $1,500 – $3,000 (for an en-suite or studio) |
| Off-Campus Housing | |
| Student Housing | $1,138 – $1,717 (for an en-suite or studio) |
| Private Apartments | $1,999 – $2,740 |
Studying In Boston
Boston offers some of the world’s premier universities, renowned for their exceptional academic programmes and transformative educational experiences. Below, we have highlighted a selection of these prestigious universities, detailing their rankings and popular courses to give you a glimpse into Boston’s academic excellence.
| University | World Ranking (QS 2024) | Popular Courses | Approximate fees |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 1st | Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Economics, Management | $55,000 |
| Harvard University | 4th | Business Administration, Law, Medicine, Engineering, Social Sciences | $55,000 |
| Northeastern University | 49th | Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences | $54,000 |
| Boston College | 55th | Education, Business Administration, Nursing, Social Work | $61,000 |
| Boston University | 108th | Business Administration, Communications, Health Sciences, International Relations | $55,000 |
| Simmons College | 161-170 | Library Science, Nursing, Social Work, Education | $51,000 |
| Tufts University | 396th | International Relations, Medicine, Engineering, Arts and Sciences | $58,000 |
Cost Of Utilities In Boston
The cost of utilities in Boston can be a crucial factor when planning your monthly budget, especially for students or young professionals settling in this bustling city. From electricity and heating to water and internet, these expenses can quickly add up, impacting your overall cost of living. Knowing what to expect can help you plan smarter, avoid surprises, and even find ways to save. However, when you book with UniAcco, all your utility bills are conveniently included in the rent, so you can focus on enjoying Boston without the hassle of managing multiple payments. Below we have given an approximate estimated breakdown of the utility bills that one can expect in the city.
| Particulars | Price |
| Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment | 150 – 200 |
| Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | 50 – 80 |
| Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | 60 – 80 |
Cost Of Healthcare In Boston
International students in Boston must explore specific healthcare costs primarily through mandatory university-sponsored health insurance plans. With costs ranging from approximately $3,000 to $4,000 annually, it is essential for students to understand their options and ensure they have adequate coverage to avoid high medical expenses during their studies. Accessing on-campus health services can help mitigate some costs while providing necessary medical care.
Costs Of Health Insurance
The cost for university-sponsored health insurance can vary, For instance
- Boston University: The medical insurance fee is included in tuition, typically costing around $3,000 to $4,000 per year.
- UMass Boston: The cost for the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) is approximately $3,241.04 per year for annual students and $1,892.69 for spring students.
- Private Insurance Options: Some students opt for private insurance plans that may be more affordable than university plans, but these must meet specific criteria to be accepted.
Cost Of Living In Boston V/s Other Cities
When it comes to the cost of living, Boston is often seen as one of the more expensive cities for students, but how does it really compare to other major cities? explore how Boston stacks up against places like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and smaller student hubs.
| City | Total Monthly Cost (Approx.) |
| Boston | $2,286 – $2,843 |
| New York City | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| San Francisco | $3,000 – $3,500 |
| Los Angeles | $2,500 – $3,200 |
| Houston | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Chicago | $2,200 – $2,800 |
Managing Your Expenses As A Student In Boston
Balancing your budget as a student in Boston can seem overwhelming, but with a bit of planning, it’s possible to make the most of your money. Here are some practical tips to help you manage your expenses:
1. Set a Monthly Budget
- Start by listing your fixed costs such as rent, utilities, and transportation, then allocate a portion for food, entertainment, and other essentials.
- Use budgeting apps like Mint or YNAB to track your spending in real-time and ensure you stay within your limits.
2. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
- Boston is a student hub, so many businesses, restaurants, and even public transport systems offer student discounts. Always carry your student ID, and look for special deals to save on meals, books, and more.
3. Cut Grocery Costs
- Avoid high-end supermarkets and instead shop at local markets, discount stores like Trader Joe’s, or wholesale clubs like Costco. Meal prepping for the week can also help reduce your food budget by limiting impulse buying and eating out.
4. Utilise Public Transportation:
- Boston’s public transport (MBTA) is highly accessible, and students can take advantage of discounted fares through monthly passes. Avoid the high costs of taxis or rideshares and rely on the subway or buses for daily commuting.
5. Limit Non-Essential Spending
- It’s tempting to indulge in frequent dining out or impulse buys, but keeping entertainment and unnecessary shopping in check will have a significant impact on your monthly savings.
6. Share Costs
- If you’re sharing an apartment, splitting groceries, cleaning supplies, and even streaming services with roommates can further reduce your individual expenses.
7. Earn While You Study
- Consider part-time work, internships, or freelance opportunities to supplement your income. Many students take advantage of campus jobs or positions in the city’s vibrant retail and service industries.
The cost of living in Boston, MA for students in 2025 remains on the higher side compared to other cities, but with careful budgeting and smart choices, it’s possible to manage expenses effectively. By planning ahead and keeping an eye on updated prices, students can thrive both academically and financially in this vibrant and historic city.
FAQs
1. Is Boston or NYC more expensive?
The cost of living in Boston is lower than in New York, as you would need around $9,381.40 in Boston to match the standard of living you would get with $12,000.00 in New York, NY.
2. Is it a good idea to live in Boston?
Boston offers endless activities, from neighbourhood pumpkin carving to exploring the 17 historical sites on the Freedom Trail, making it a lively and exciting place to live.
3. What is Boston best known for?
Boston is famed for its key role in the American Revolution and is equally recognised today as a hub of modern culture, education, and technology.
4. Is Boston colder than New York?
A major difference between the two cities is the winter weather—Boston tends to have colder, snowier winters than New York City.
5. Is 70k USD a good salary in the USA?
While $70,000 is above the national average, its adequacy depends on personal financial goals and living expenses.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article! For more engaging content and useful tips, explore the links below.
- Best Restaurants in Boston 2024 – UniAcco
- Cost Of Living In The USA For Students 2024 – UniAcco
- Universities In The USA With Most Indian Students
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