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Cost Of Living In Boston For Students

October 7, 2024 •

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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

Weekly Cost of Accommodation (£): 100 Weekly Cost of Transport (£): 50 Weekly Cost of Utilities (£): 30 Weekly Cost of Food (£): 70 Number of Weeks Staying:

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.