BOSTON, July 29, 2025
The Sky-High Cost of Boston Living
Boston’s affordability is a serious concern for many.
It’s one thing to understand why Boston’s astronomical cost of living makes sense if you’re flush with biotech money or have a coveted tenured position at Harvard. But for everyone else, the justification for these prices is genuinely baffling.
Why is Boston So Expensive?
The city consistently ranks among the most expensive in the United States. This high cost affects everything from housing to daily necessities.
Is Boston’s high cost of living sustainable for the average resident? Many find it increasingly difficult to manage.
Boston’s cost of living is notoriously high.
Factors contributing to this include a strong job market, particularly in tech and higher education, which drives demand for housing. Limited geographical space within the city also plays a significant role in keeping housing prices elevated.
Many residents express frustration with the trade-off between the city’s cultural and economic opportunities and the financial strain it imposes. The appeal of living in a historic and intellectually vibrant city clashes with the stark reality of making ends meet.
When you’re not pulling in biotech salaries or enjoying Harvard’s endowments, the math just doesn’t add up for many.
Key Takeaways:
- Boston’s cost of living is exceptionally high.
- This makes it difficult for those without high incomes to reside there.
- Factors like job markets and geography contribute to the expense.
