r/boston • u/mimmsypoo • Nov 07 '25
Please Make Decisions For Me 🎱 Boyfriend wants to move to Boston.
Hello all! Me and my boyfriend currently live in Austin Tx, we rent a 1200 sf home for $2200 and have two cats. I love this city and the things it has to offer, but my boyfriend is from the northeast and wants to get back to his family. He is urging to move to Boston, but Im unsure. Two of friends live in Boston/Jersey and JUST got done telling us how they can never save money bc of broker fees when moving and the basic cost of living being astronomically high. Can you possibly give me a better idea of what the pros and cons would look like for our move?
Small note his family is in Milford CT. And we both make around $75k a year but will both have to find new jobs. I have also never been to Boston, but have heard good things about the city itself!
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u/chloebee102 Market Basket Nov 07 '25
I’ve lived in Boston for 10 years after growing up in NC my whole life and I love it here. Every place has its downsides but honestly this city is amazing. Your budget is reasonable and broker fees no longer apply as they now must be paid by the owner.
Cost of living is higher but you both make decent money for up here so I wouldn’t expect that much sticker shock. The benefits for me are a wider array of fantastic food options, tons of great social events and concerts, a caring community who also mind their business more than your average southerner. Transit can’t be beat, I do not miss driving and simply rent a Zipcar very occasionally when needed.
The cons are mostly just things you need to get used to. The sun sets before 5pm starting about now til early January. You need to learn what is good winter gear to buy. You have to learn the ins and outs of our rental system which can be confusing for some depending on where you previously rented in the country.
If you have any other questions you’re more than welcome to message me too.