Are you thinking about relocating to Boston or one of its surrounding suburbs? Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a change of scenery, the Boston area offers a unique mix of history, culture, and modern city life. From its walkable neighborhoods to its world-class universities, there’s a lot to love about this vibrant New England region. Here’s everything you need to know before making the move.
Why Move to Boston?
1. A Thriving Job Market
Boston is a hub for innovation, with thriving industries in technology, finance, healthcare, and education. Major employers include Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, MIT, and tech giants in the Kendall Square area. If you’re looking for career growth, Boston is an excellent place to be.
2. Top-Ranked Schools and Universities
Boston is home to some of the most prestigious schools in the world, including Harvard, MIT, Boston College, Tufts, Northeastern, and Boston University. If you’re moving with kids, the city also boasts excellent public and private K-12 schools, making it a great choice for families.
3. Walkable, Historic Neighborhoods
One of Boston’s best features is its walkability. Many neighborhoods, like Back Bay, South End, Beacon Hill, Seaport, and the North End, allow you to live, work, and play without needing a car. With cobblestone streets, historic brownstones, and scenic waterfronts, Boston’s charm is hard to beat.
4. Sports and Entertainment
If you’re a sports fan, you’ll love living in Boston. Home to the Red Sox, Celtics, Bruins, and Patriots, this city takes its sports seriously. The Boston Marathon, held annually on Patriots’ Day, is one of the world’s most prestigious races, attracting elite runners and enthusiastic spectators alike. The Head of the Charles Regatta is the ultimate rowing competition and a must-see!
5. Access to Nature and Outdoor Activities
Despite being a major city, Boston offers plenty of outdoor activities. You can jog along the Charles River Esplanade, explore the Boston Common, the Public Garden, or take a weekend trip to the Cape Cod beaches, or the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
6. Arts, Culture, and History
Boston is rich in arts and culture, featuring world-class museums, theaters, and music venues. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum showcase stunning collections, while the Boston Ballet and Broadway shows at the Boston Opera House provide top-tier performances. The Boston Symphony Orchestra adds to the city’s vibrant music scene, and there are theaters and year-round festivals celebrating everything from film to literature. Additionally, Boston’s deep historical roots are on display through iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, where visitors can explore the city’s role in shaping American history.
7. Leading Healthcare Institutions
Boston is home to some of the best hospitals and medical research centers in the country. Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Boston Children’s Hospital are renowned for their top-tier healthcare services and medical breakthroughs. If access to excellent healthcare is a priority, Boston is one of the best places to live.
Great Boston Neighborhoods to Live In
- Back Bay – Historic and upscale neighborhood renowned for its picturesque Victorian brownstones, tree-lined streets, and home to Newbury Street shopping.
- South End – Features charming, tree-lined streets with historic brownstones and an abundance of public parks and restaurants.
- Cambridge – Home to Harvard and MIT, with a mix of students, professionals, academics, and families.
- Jamaica Plain – A green, diverse neighborhood with parks and a community feel.
- Somerville – A growing, vibrant area with a mix of young professionals and families.
Convenient Boston Suburbs to Live In
- Newton – Known for its excellent schools, beautiful residential neighborhoods, and easy access to Boston via the MBTA Green Line.
- Brookline – A suburban feel with urban convenience, top-rated schools, and vibrant commercial areas like Coolidge Corner.
- Arlington – Offers a strong community feel, great schools, and a walkable town center with shops, restaurants, and access to the Minuteman Bikeway.
- Needham – A family-friendly suburb with a lively town center, excellent schools, and commuter rail access to Boston.
- Milton – Home to the Blue Hills Reservation, this suburb offers a mix of natural beauty, historic homes, and a strong sense of community.
Moving to Boston is an exciting opportunity, whether you’re drawn to its job market, history, or vibrant culture. With the help of your Suburban Jungle Strategist, you can find the perfect neighborhood and settle into life in one of America’s most dynamic cities.
If you would like to explore some of Boston’s awesome suburbs, check out these towns offering quick commutes to Boston and Cambridge.
For more insights, visit SJ’s Boston suburbs section and the Boston blog page on our website.
Thinking about making the move to the city or suburbs? Schedule a free strategy call today!
