Whether you are relocating from another city or from the surrounding Massachusetts suburbs, Boston is a unique place! Here are some things to know as you make your transition.
Things to Know Before Moving to Boston
- Inexpensive Housing. Not something you hear in Boston. Boston is one of the priciest urban areas and depending on where you are moving from, you might experience some sticker shock. But for some reason that doesnt keep new residents away! Weve fallen in love with urban living and the culture, proximity to shops, restaurants, and the vast career opportunities. More info
- Think Fast. If you are looking to rent or buy, you dont have a long time to contemplate your options Boston is fast moving. Not only are our sports teams competitive so is our real estate market. Be ready to apply, or make your offer before someone else swoops in! Explore available housing and let us help! More info
- WalkUP. Boston is ranked #3 for walkable urbanism. Boston has and is experiencing a redevelopment of its central city which has resulted in this high ranking, and a reputation for walkability to urban offices, retail and multi-family rental space. Its safe to say you could get by without having a car. More info
- Parking. If you just cant live without your car, be prepared. In certain Boston neighborhoods parking has been referred to as a contact sport, especially during the winter months. Resident parking stickers are required in certain neighborhoods so be sure to register and insure your vehicle in Massachusetts. In many neighborhoods more parking stickers are issued than parking spots exist. Learn more about parking and street regulations. More info
- Public Transportation. Boston does offer several means of transportation, if you do decide to ditch your car. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) manages the subway lines (what us Bostonians call the T), the city buses, the commuter rail, and ferries. All making it easy and fairly quick to get from point A to B. More info
- Recreation.Boston lacks the major concrete jungle feel most cities have. We are lucky to have so much green and multi-use space scattered throughout the city. To name a few Boston Harbor/Harbor Islands, Charles River Esplanade, Boston Public Garden, Boston Common, Lawn on D, Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, Paul Revere Park, Arnold Arboretum, Emerald Necklace you get the idea! More info
- Pet Friendly. There are many pet friendly neighborhoods in Boston, and as mentioned above plenty of accessible green space for you and your pal to get outside and exercise. We consider pet friendly neighborhoods to be those not only close to city green space, but those with off leash areas, pet friendly businesses, and vet clinics. The top neighborhoods being Beacon Hill, Back Bay, Charlestown, South End, South Boston and The Waterfront.
- Move In. July to September (aka RIGHT NOW!) are by far the busiest move in times. Apartment leases renew, move in for all of the 50+ colleges in the Metro Boston area occur, and families want to get settled in their new homes before sending the little ones back to school. Lets just say it can be a chaotic time, but worth it to live in what we consider the BEST city!
- Street Occupancy Permit. Moving is laborious and expensive, but this one expense will save you a major headache on the day of your move. If you have a big ole moving truck parked in the middle of a one way street in the South End you might not win the favor of your new neighbors. Avoid this by obtaining a moving truck permit from city hall. More info
- Moving Trucks. Something Bostonians find comical and even place bets on, is when the first moving truck will get wedged under the bridge on Storrow Drive. Our bet is September 1st The lanes are narrow, the underpasses are low and the speed is decent. So remind your movers when they see the NO TRUCKS OR BUSES, CARS ONLY and CLEARANCE 10 ft signs, not to chance it! Photos
The Bottom Line
Relocating to a new city can be a challenge, but in our opinion youve picked the best city and once you have arrived it will all be worth it!
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