There’s a good reason why Boston is called the Hub. It sits at the crossroads of America’s past and future. Here, you can stand on the battlegrounds that made the colonies a nation. But it’s also a gateway city, where people from all over the world come for its universities, hospitals, and leading tech industry.
Boston’s schools and job opportunities make it a perfect place to relocate. But if you’re considering a move to Boston, there are a few things you should know first. Here are our top 10 must-know tips for moving to Boston.
- Boston Neighborhoods: Boston is a collection of unique neighborhoods, each with its own personality. And there are many accessible neighborhoods that extend beyond the borders of the city, as well. Cambridge and Somerville, just across the Charles River, and Brookline, which is surrounded by Boston, itself, have their own cultural offerings. Talk to someone local, or find neighborhood groups on Facebook before choosing one to call home. If you don’t want to commit to one neighborhood right away, consider renting first.
- Traffic: Boston traffic is tough, particularly when the students come back to the 35 colleges and universities within its borders (we’re not even counting the suburban schools). Its growing tech, education, and medical industries attract a lot of new people every year, as well. Keep commute time in mind when choosing a neighborhood, or consider leaving the car home and taking public transportation.
- Parking: If you’re planning on living in or close to the city, you may want to reconsider bringing a car altogether. Parking is hard to find on the street, and private parking is expensive. The good news is Boston has an extensive subway, commuter, and bus system called the MBTA (the T, for short).
- Ample Green Spaces: One of the best parts of exploring Boston is stumbling upon hidden parks and green spaces. You can’t go far without finding one, many of which will make you feel like you’re not in a city at all. Take a blanket, a good book, and enjoy!
- History and Culture: Founded in 1620, Boston is one of the oldest cities in the U.S., and there are so many historic sites and tours. We’re also home to some of the nation’s finest museums and art galleries, including the ICA and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
- Location, Location, Location: Interstates 90 and 93 run right through Boston, and I95 runs around it. That gives residents quick access to everything from Cape Cod beaches to Vermont ski resorts.
- Moving Tip: If you’re planning your move, avoid moving on or around September 1. Remember all those colleges we talked about? That’s when the students come back, and Boston becomes quite chaotic. And when you do bring your moving van into town, avoid Storrow Drive and Memorial Drive. The bridges are too low and the top of your truck will come right off, or as we call it “getting Storrowed.”
- Itty Bitty Living Space: Boston homes aren’t known for large closets, basements, or attics. Consider paring down before moving into the city.
- Winter in Boston: Winter is a beautiful season in Boston, but it can be very cold and very snowy. Make sure you’re prepared with a hefty shovel; ice melt; all-weather tires; and super-warm coat, hat, gloves, and boots.
- Sports: If you’re a sports fan, Boston is the place to be! We’re home to the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins. We are the city of champions and our fans are passionate!
If you’re thinking of moving to Boston, keep these tips in mind, and don’t forget to talk to the locals. They’ll know all the best places to eat, work, and play. And if you need help with anything from unpacking to organizing to waiting for the cable guy, get in touch! Simplified is happy to help you settle into your new home!