Can’t Afford Boston? Check Out These 7 Boston Suburbs

Imagine living in Boston: a city considered as one of the best on the East Coast. A place surrounded by loads of delicious food, top-class schools, and a variety of entertainment options for everyone.

However, living in Beantown is bound to get expensive with all those amazing perks around. And sometimes, your spending can go way beyond budget. When that happens, what can you do?

Luckily, there are places in the city where you can live cheaper with as many benefits. For that, here are seven affordable and fantastic suburbs in Boston.

Living Costs in Boston

Have you ever thought about how much it costs to live in Boston? It’s important that you consider this factor as it will significantly affect life in your future home, particularly in Beantown, where things tend to get pricey from your needs down to your wants.

According to bestplaces.net, a demographics site, you’ll likely pay more for utilities and groceries in Boston than the national average. Furthermore, entertainment, restaurants clothing, and maintenance will also be pricier. The same goes for transportation. But that’s not the most expensive part yet. At more than double the average cost in the US, you’ll need hefty amounts of cash to afford housing. On the bright side, your appointments with a doctor will likely be cheaper. And with everything going around in the city, your expenses are sure to be worth it.

Seven Affordable Boston Suburbs

Whether you can’t manage to be in the heart of Boston or just want to have a little more peace and quiet, the suburbs are always open for you. They’re cheaper, calmer, and have almost as many amenities. If you’re interested in living there, take a look at these seven affordable Boston suburbs.

1. Westford

If you’re looking for a great place to call home, consider living in Westford. With a community centered on safety, kindness, and friendliness, you will not need to worry about your kids growing up to be responsible adults. The schools are reputable, offering many opportunities for the students. And when in Westford, life will never get boring. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoorsy, love culture and the arts, or want to socialize, you’ll never run out of things to do. All that at a lower price. What more could you ask for?

Westford Common, looking down Main Street. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

2. Topsfield

Is the hustle and bustle in Boston too much for you? Then this small cozy town with a population of a little over 6,500 might be where you want to build a home. As a tiny suburb, Topsfield is peaceful and quiet, away from all the ruckus downtown. But it is also close enough to the city if you ever decide to go to a party at night. You can also get close to nature thanks to its proximity to forests, lakes, and the sea. National parks in the locality are also a sight to see. When talking about public schools, Topsfield is among the best in Essex County. The downside is that there are little stores to go around, and work opportunities are few. Nevertheless, if you secure a proper job, you’ll never go wrong living in Topsfield.

Parson Capen House, built in 1683. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

3. Hopkinton

Safety is among the most important factors to consider when choosing a home. Better security leads to peace of mind and better quality of life. This is one of the many advantages when living in Hopkinton, as they are the safest area in America this 2021. Quality education and a welcoming community are also a big plus in this suburb, making it an ideal place for raising a family. Not to mention, there are also plenty of public areas for recreation and relaxation. However, Hopkinton is not so diverse, and the nightlife can get dull sometimes. But those are just minor issues in exchange for improved security.

Town Hall. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

4. Maynard

Why live in Maynard? Simple. It’s cheaper than the surrounding towns. It’s safe for your children. And the neighbors are friendly. You’ll love living in Maynard, especially if you prefer a small-town environment. And although tiny in size, the area has lots to offer. Good food? Check. Coffee shops? Yep. Outdoor fun? Parks and a part of the Wildlife Refuge are there for you to explore. The public schools are great, too. Better yet, Maynard is going in the right direction as it continues to develop by the day, making the future seem promising.

Nason Street in historic downtown Maynard. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

5. Wakefield

About 12 miles north of downtown Boston lies Wakefield. As you take your first steps into the area, you’ll meet kind residents, charming homes, beautiful parks, and excellent schools. Of course, you can’t forget their food, shopping areas, and rich history. Are you a book person? If so, Lucius Beebe public library is waiting for you. Want to get close to nature? Visit the famous Lake Quannapowitt. Do they play sports? Yes, particularly basketball. To top it off, the teachers in Wakefield schools are passionate about what they do, ensuring your children get the education they deserve. The only problem is traffic and the cost of transportation. Beyond that, Wakefield is still more inexpensive than Boston.

Panoramic view of Lake Quannapowitt from its eastern shore, looking westward. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

6. Holliston

When you mention affordability in Boston, it’s hard not to say Holliston. But that’s not the only thing that gets them running. This suburb is popular for its quaint Town Center, where you can find Holliston Superette, Fiske’s General Store, Holliston Grill, Carnegie public library, and so much more. Residents also love the sense of community, great for families and retirees. There are also a few parks and recreation areas available where you can exercise or blow off some steam. What’s more, the teachers are kind and committed to giving your children a good education. Moreover, the place is especially good if you’re a young entrepreneur as the people and government are supportive and engaging.

Balancing Rock, after it fell. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

7. Wrentham

If you want to be close to just about everything, Wrentham is the answer. With Providence and Boston close at hand, you have easy access to amenities while living a low-cost life. Add to that are Wrentham Outlets, Gillette Stadium, and the Wrentham Forest if you ever want to go biking, fishing, walking, or simply appreciate nature. And just like any other suburb on this list, Wrentham has amazing schools, too. The place is not only family-friendly but also pet-friendly.

South Street. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

Tips when Moving to Boston

When moving, it’s always a good idea to know your future home better. So here’s a little something to help you get ready for your move.

Transportation

Driving is hard in Boston due to the complicated street systems. That’s why many prefer public transport. However, trains in Boston close early, between 12:30 AM to 1:00 AM. Any more than this, and you’ll need to pay for a taxi or Uber.

Sports

You’re probably in the right place when in Boston if you’re into sports, as they take sports pretty seriously. Whether it be basketball, baseball, football, or ice hockey, you can expect that the people here are rather earnest about it. It’s a good place to be when you’re a sports fan.

Arts and Culture

Beyond sports, Boston is also rich in arts, culture, and history. There are lots of cultural festivals to enjoy, art museums to visit and adore, and a vast history to explore.

Neighborhood

Picking the right neighborhood is key to a better life. If you’re a student, go for more student-y communities. There are also areas in Boston great for families, retirees, and businesses. But whatever neighborhood you choose, be sure to research first and make sure that your needs are close by.

Green Space

Boston isn’t all about buildings, shopping malls, and busy streets. When you want some time off, there are plenty of green areas like parks for relaxation, lakes where you can go fishing and boating, and trail sites if you love a good adventure.

Schools

Boston boasts several outstanding public schools and universities, including the well-renowned Harvard and MIT. Education is not a problem here.

As charming as Boston and its suburbs are, they might not be the perfect fit for everyone. If you’re contemplating a move but unsure if Boston or the burbs tick all your boxes, here are three vibrant cities that could pique your interest, including sunny Miami as one of the top choices.

“Sunny Escapes: Why Miami Might Be Your Next Home Base”

Miami offers a stark contrast to Boston’s historic charm with its vibrant nightlife, year-round warm weather, and bustling beach scene. While Boston prides itself on historical depth and a robust educational landscape, Miami invites you with its multicultural ambiance and a more relaxed lifestyle. Housing in Miami might still be on the pricier side, but you trade snow shovels for beach umbrellas and get an opportunity to indulge in outdoor activities and water sports throughout the year. Save on moving costs with these movers.

“Tech Haven: Could Austin Be Your Scene?”

Austin, Texas, often dubbed the “Silicon Hills,” presents a booming tech scene that rivals Boston’s Route 128 tech corridor but with a distinctly laid-back vibe. The cost of living in Austin is generally lower compared to Boston, allowing for a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing career opportunities. The city is also famous for its live music scene, eclectic food offerings, and vibrant cultural festivals, providing a stark contrast to Boston’s more traditional and seasonal festivities.

“Nature’s Gateway: Exploring the Allure of Denver”

Denver provides a perfect blend of urban and outdoor lifestyles. If Boston’s seaside charm and rich history had you hooked, Denver might just win you over with its mountainous backdrop and active outdoor culture. The cost of living in Denver is more comparable to Boston, but what you get in return is access to some of the nation’s best ski resorts, hiking trails, and a thriving craft brewery scene, making it a strong contender for those looking to balance city life with nature.