While the rate of Boston’s growth has fallen in recent years, we do continue to add new residents year after year. Some people are drawn here by job opportunities and higher education, but, once settled, they quickly discover what we already know: this city is amazing. Here are just some of the reasons to live in Boston.
If you happen to make plaques, then you've got job security in Boston. There’s barely a street or alley that doesn’t carry historical significance, and if you attempt to read every plaque you encounter, you’ll get overwhelmed fast. From Faneuil Hall (built in 1742) to Fenway Park (the oldest ballpark in the MLB), there is no shortage of significant locales.
Historical sites go far beyond the "must-see" stops on the Freedom Trail. There are also many little gems in Greater Boston, like the Jackson Homestead and Museum in Newton.
You already knew that, but were you aware that 43.3% of us hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher? The Boston Redevelopment Authority states, there are 35 colleges in Boston, with a combined population of 152,000 students! That’s a lot of late-night pizza.
That's right: this city is heaven for foodies. If you can eat it, there’s a Boston festival in its honor. We celebrate cuisines from around the world, but also from nearer to home – have you been to the Fluff Festival in Somerville?
8. We’re no slouches when it comes to inventing dishes, either.
Boston cream pie and Parker House rolls were first dreamed up at the Parker House Hotel, while Boston baked beans originated in the 1620s when devout Pilgrims and Puritans developed the ultimate hack to allow them to rest on Sunday without going hungry. They made Boston baked beans on Saturday, then used hot bricks to make sure the food remained warm through Sunday!
It’s common knowledge that many Bostonians have strong British, Irish, and Italian roots, but did you know that 27.3% of us are foreign-born? Consequently, our annual festivals celebrate a huge range of cultures, and restaurants are devoted to every kind of cuisine you can imagine. Moldavian food, anyone? (No, seriously, it’s yummy.)
If you or a loved one gets sick, you’ll receive excellent care here. Massachusetts earned the number one spot for healthcare access (and came in at number two in healthcare, overall). Many of our state’s top hospitals are in Boston.
12. If you’re into shoes, this is the place for you.
Specifically athletic shoes. Reebok, New Balance, and Converse all have headquarters here.
But what else would you expect from the place that hosts the world’s oldest marathon?
Impress everyone from your doctor to your FitBit with the number of steps you can accumulate each day here. Walk Score awards Boston 81/100, which makes our city 3rd in the nation when it comes to walkability.
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14. We enjoy all the conveniences of city living without sacrificing green space.
Park Score (which is like Walk Score but for city parks), stated there is an acre of park for every 127 Boston residents. Almost everyone lives within a ten-minute walk of a green space, with the most popular park being Boston Common – beloved by city dwellers since 1634!
We also win bronze - which sounds more prestigious than third - for our public transit system. (Data from SmartAsset's assessment of 136 cities with a population exceeding 175,000). A full 34% of Boston commuters use public transit as their main way to get to work.
16. The Sox, Pats, Bruins, Celtics. We clearly have the best teams...
…And we’re totally devoted to them. During the 2000s, Boston teams reigned, but even in decades when victory proved elusive, our team support never wavered. You want loyalty? Befriend a Bostonian.
17. Each neighborhood has a distinct identity, so there’s bound to be a place that appeals to you.
Want plenty of greenery and a diverse community? Check out JP. Tempted to spit on anyone wearing a Stankees cap? Move to Fenway-Kenmore. The list goes on…
In between hitting the bars, jazz clubs, and restaurants, take time to marvel at the glow of Boston at night. Breathtaking.
These are only a few of the best things about living in Boston. Grab a slice of Boston creme pie and tell us why are you proud to be a Bostonian. Share a few more reasons to live in Boston on the Only In Boston Facebook page.
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More reasons to move to Boston
Chris Muras|January 06, 2023
Why live in Boston?
With a history as old and storied as any city in the United States, Boston is an ideal place to call home. Its rich past and vibrant culture make it one of the most exciting cities in the country. With world-class museums, educational institutions, and cultural landmarks around every corner, Boston provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Here are a few reasons to live in Boston:
The lively restaurant scene offers something for everyone – whether you're looking for seafood right off the boat or tantalizing ethnic fare. In addition to its great points of interest, there's also the convenience of getting around with its diverse public transportation system and reliable commuter rail service. A city with a small-town feel, brimming with activity, there's no better place than Boston to call home!
What is the worst thing about living in Boston?
With all of the good things about living in Boston, there have to be a few things that aren't as desirable. But then again, some of those things you can say about pretty much everywhere, like bad drivers or traffic congestion. The cost of living can be pretty intense too. And if you don't like snow, Boston isn't for you. But that's what makes Bostonians pretty great too, you have to have a good amount of good old-fashioned New England toughness to be a true Boston lover.
