Your Guide to Moving to Boston
Boston is one of the most exciting cities in the Eastern United States. There is a reason that people move to Boston from across the world. With an exciting sports scene, history around every corner, and delicious food, Boston is a wonderful place to live. Here’s what you need to know when you’re moving to Boston from Canada to prepare for your day-to-day life in your new city.
Things to Know Before Moving to Boston
Life in Boston is unlike that you’ll find in any Canadian city; there are some key things that you should know before moving to Boston so that you’re fully prepared for what the city has to offer. Some of the most important things to remember are:
- Boston is a student town. From the storied halls of Harvard and MIT to the giant campus of Boston University, Boston is filled with students and recent graduates. The result is an energetic atmosphere with young people from around the world. However, because of this, it is important to take note of the academic calendar. For example, don’t move on September 1st – this is when all the students will be looking for new apartments, and you have less of a chance of finding the perfect home.
- There is a high cost of living in Boston. People are willing to pay a lot to live here, which means that your rent comes with a hefty price tag. Make sure you look into the average rental prices in your ideal area to ensure you can afford to make the move.
- While Boston is renowned the world over as a world-class city, there is still a small city feeling. This is influenced by the fact that Boston is a commuter town, with people choosing to walk and take transit instead of sitting in the notoriously bad traffic. This gives you the opportunity to really get to know your city and the people who live in it.
- Unless you’re living far away from the city centre, you likely won’t have a car, like many other Bostonians. You have to prepare for the commuter lifestyle. Boston residents agree that a good winter coat is key for those freezing winters and that Google Maps is your best friend – Boston streets can get confusing to navigate.
- Step aside, San Francisco. Boston has a burgeoning tech community which means that there are job opportunities within the tech sector abound. This is another reason that many put down roots in Boston, which contributes to its youthful atmosphere.
Before you move across the border, you need to make sure your documentation is prepared so that you’re ready to begin living and working in the United States. See our guide for moving from Canada to the USA here.
The Best Boston Neighborhoods
Now that you’re prepared for your move to Boston, you need to decide on the perfect neighbourhood to live in. While there are so many wonderful areas, locals recommend living where you want to spend most of your time, as the traffic is famously unpleasant.
Some of our favourite neighbourhoods in Boston include:
- Boston’s biggest suburb, Dorchester, is a diverse area with a distinct multicultural feeling. The many immigrants who reside here, from many diverse cultures, mean that you’ll get to experience some of the best food and art in the city. Dorchester is also great for those who love the outdoors, with 2 of Boston’s beaches. Head on over to Dorchester Park and watch the hired goats – that’s right, hired goats – maintain the park.
- Union Square is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for young professionals and families. Foodies will adore the delicious array of restaurants, cafes, and bars that line the streets. This vibrant area also features world-class farmer’s markets, unique fitness studios, and quirky shops.
- For those that prefer a more relaxed and residential area, Quincy is an excellent choice. Providing convenient transit service to downtown Boston, you’ll love coming home to this area that features stunning coastlines with views of Boston’s cityscape. Quincy is also known to have excellent schools, making it a prime choice for those with children.
Why Move to Boston?
Now that you’ve settled in your new space, know your way around, and have accustomed to all of the Boston quirks, what is there to look forward to? Here are some Bostonians’ favourite things about their city.
- Boston is one of the greatest places in the world for professional sports. Many of the best teams in North America – including the New England Patriots and the Boston Bruins – are close by. Of course, it doesn’t matter if you’re a baseball fan; you can’t miss out on a Boston Red Sox game at the iconic Fenway Park.
- Massachusetts is a gorgeous state and Boston makes the perfect base for exploring New England. Stroll the beaches of Cape Cod, go whale watching on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, and embrace your inner hipster in Portland, Maine.
- Relish the great outdoors with some of Boston’s amazing green spaces. Enjoy riverside bike rides along the Charles River Esplanade and enjoy a picnic in Boston Common, America’s first city park. We can think of no better place to read a book than Harvard Yard, at the esteemed Harvard University.
- Craft beer lovers are spoiled for choice in Boston, with many delicious craft breweries. In the past ten years, the beer scene has exploded; there’s an exciting brewery for any taste. Relax on the patio at Cambridge Brewing Company or enjoy the German-style beer hall at Harpoon Brewery.
- American history buffs will love all of the historical sights scattered throughout the city. Follow the Freedom Trail, which leads you through a number of historical sights and brings you back to some of the moments that shaped American history.
Long-Distance Moving Company to Boston
Are you ready to make the long-distance move to Boston from Canada? Let Trans Canada Movers make it easy for you. We are the best long-distance moving company for moves to Boston and will help you to ensure all of your valuables are delivered safely and efficiently to your new home. Working with a trusted mover means you can spend less time worrying and more time getting excited about your move. Contact us today or call us at 1 (888) 433-1335 to start planning your move to Boston.
