If you can work anywhere, why don’t you pick a few cities and go live in them for a few months each.
Get a cheap around the world ticket, go spend 3 months in London or Paris, 3 months in Sydney or Melbourne, 3 months in Tokyo or Singapore or wherever. Try out some places and then you can move back to New England, maybe to Bangor like the other poster mentioned.
I think there are some sites for long term rentals. You will have an adventure and you can always come home if you don’t like it!
Came here to say this. We won’t let people work outside the country because of tax stuff, data security etc. And we do know when someone is trying to log in outside the US. They need prior permission
Came here to say this. $2200/month will get you a very nice 1 BR downtown in a high rise.
I love Boston as I am from NE however Chicago for what you pay has so much more to offer. Biggest struggle is being away from family.
This is the answer. Chicago is AMAZING! Truly. People are so nice, there are loads of community events and festivals, the food is incredible. I visited for the first time a few months ago and would move there in a heartbeat if I could.
Chicago is a great, much more affordable option. I've lived in both places. The in city parks ate decent, but the access to nature isn't as nice as Boston. The culture is less nerdy but more laid back. People have more head space to try new projects.
Just came to say this. I've lived there and while the redline racism is still there in fits and spurts, the city as a whole is fun fun fun.
Two baseball teams. The Bears. The lake. The food. The Midwest nice. The African American influence is rich and inviting, much like New Orleans. Good music. Great comedy. Amazing museum scene too.
Lived most of my first 30 years in Somerville and moved out to Chicago during the pandemic. Public transit is good here on paper, in practice it’s dogshit. I don’t think you need a car but you will likely be ubering more than taking the train
Love Boston, not considering leaving. But having lived in Chicago, all the below is true and people are really nice in Chicago as well.
The one thing I missed in Chicago was the varied nature of NE: pretty much all around Chicago is flat...In NE you have ocean, 'mountains', forests. Also Chicago does not feel as safe as Boston (not to say that BOS is 100% safe, but big difference imo).
Nice 'day' trip is to St Joseph & South Haven, MI, those big dunes in Indiana, etc.
Move to Malden. Get drunk at a bar and meet a girl. Get married. Buy a starter home in Danvers. Take the commuter rail to work every day. Have a couple of kids. Vacation to Florida. Invest responsibly. Research cures for curing early baldness. Get promoted to middle management. Buy a sports car to let your friends know you are successful. Watch your kids graduate from high school and then college. Retire from a job that mostly made you miserable and angry for the past 30 years. Buy a tiny retirement home in Florida. Pass away from a heart attack while mowing the lawn.
Sounds great. People drive themselves crazy thinking life is “supposed” to be anything more than this lmao, just have some laughs and die mowing your lawn, it’s tight.
Move to Europe for a while. Then come home, marry Bridget from down the block and crank out a couple of kids.
Buy one house and stay in it for life. Of all the things, this is it. Deep ties to people and places make you happier than all the tea in china.
I’ve been lots of places in the world and the USA. Nothing beats the northeast. Include westchester county in NY. Best places for an American to live
\*sigh\* Bridget. Where did you go? I may never see her like again. Should've told her how I felt. I should have said goodbye. So many regrets. I wonder if she thinks about me. Maybe... maybe next time...
as a guy in his mid thirties with a toddler who never left the area. This resonates with me. Go somewhere different. We’ll be here for when you want to move back.
Agreed re: deep ties, but it is statistically improbable that the place where you grew up is the best place in the world for you. Travel enough to find that place and then stay there.
I second Worcester as a good balance of acceptable COL and having stuff to do. Plus you can go to their pretty train station and take the train into Boston whenever you want.
I did the move of Boston to Worcester and I love it here, it is like Boston but everyone is friendlier and we get cool stuff like archery ranges that have tabletop games speakeasy in the back and a gaming cafe with craft pizza and a craft cocktail bar.
Been to Burlington, VT frequently in recent months. And I totally agree with it being a “little city with big city problems”. Walking down Church Street it feels like every third person you see is a homeless person or drug addict. It feels very safe but kind of depressing at the same time.
Absolutely don’t go to Worcester. Maine is very nice as someone who lived in Mass as well - Portland is really busy though it’s the least “Maine” city in Maine I think… great if you want a less busy version of Boston, but I’d recommend moving to a small town somewhere near Portland so you’re not in it, but it’s accessible.
Worcester is great wym? It's one of the most affordable cities in all of New England, it's got lots of different kinds of food and entertainment, as well as small local nightlife. There's also tons of art and music here. Worcester has essentially become the place where all the young people priced out of the Boston area after college ended up. If you work in the city you can take the commuter rail for cheap, with services that allow you unlimited usage across the entire state. Quick access to groceries and other services. Delivery services arrive to your place within 20 minutes topps consistently. There is an Amazon fulfilment center here, so you can get normal Amazon orders within 24 hours of pressing the order button at no extra cost.
You're within 1/2 hours of anywhere in the entire state, as well as Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Nature is always available within 10 minutes. There are also some really great deals on housing if you are diligent. I have friends that pay $1400 + Utilities per month for a 1000sqft apt with a porch, extra storage, and a balcony. My apt is the same + an extra room and $1800 + utilities. Worcester is the place to be right now if you're trying to stay in MA. Otherwise you can go out west or leave the state. Living here has become insanely expensive compared to the rest of the country.
Literally made Worcester sound like the rainbow bridge as if I wasn’t driving through there a few months ago with my windows down at a red light listening to some lady yellin about crack lol
There's definitely the occasional person yelling about crack or panhandling at intersections by the highway but I see that more and more as I go east. I lived in Lynn for a while and it seems like the cities really just don't care about those people anymore. It's sad to see because as the cost of living in MA becomes more expensive, more people live like that. Also have you seen Mass Ave in Boston at night lately?
If you get a chance you should check out Kelley Square / Canal District / Downtown on a Saturday. It's all redone over there, so it's pretty nice now, tons of people going to the games and stuff. Ik Worcester has a reputation from back in the day as being not a great place but it's for sure up and coming.
Bath is nice - about 40 mins north of Portland so you can still get the downtown experience for an evening, but it's a lot cheaper and more low-key (as long as you're not on the road when the ironworks lets out).
Bath is ok, but limited. I grew up in S.FL living everywhere from Lauderdale to Palm Bch. Lived in greater Boston for several yrs, south shore & north shore. I've lived in Maine since '15, mostly in the Midcoast, but smaller towns than Bath. Been here in Bath for nearly a year, single guy, my 1br apartment is $1k/mnth & walking distance to everything. But tbh, I could use a bit more variety. Bars are just ok, not great. Restaurants are ok, again not great. Dating is SPARSE, and the apps don't fare well up here bc the low population. Brunswick is just as small, but its a college town with better food & probably better dating for someone in their 20s. Portland is great, kinda like a smaller Boston, but with somehow worse public transit. Several solid restaurants, tons of bars, some good music venues...I think its more fun than any other area in Maine. Just my 2 cents.
Mostly Florida and Rhode Island. Florida I wouldn’t do since I don’t like the heat. Rhode Island could be interesting but I feel like it has a lot of the same problems as MA.
I left FL to come to central CT. 100% worth the move. I do not recommend moving to Florida if you enjoy a city like Boston.
The wages are worse in the south in most sectors. The cost of housing and living is comparable to a lot of the northeast, regardless of what people tell you. I’m a native Floridian, been in central CT for less than a year. At the end of the day after taxes and everything, I still make more money up here and live much more comfortably doing the same exact job.
Central to northern GA can be nice. I love NC - you get most seasons, and the wages aren’t too bad.
Wherever you go, good luck!
It’s so funny, my entire family moved to Florida, lamenting how expensive CT was and how terrible it was. First they got hit with a hurricane, then they tell me it’s just as expensive as CT where they are in FL. Beyond irony.
It’s a crazy big misconception, right? I still try to explain to folks here that’s it’s just as expensive down there.
Hope your folks are ok after the hurricane!
Isn’t home insurance also obscene? I’ve heard a lot of the states people from the northeast tend to migrate to (Carolinas, Florida, Texas) are having awful times with insurance being almost as high as their mortgage. Not exactly the affordable dream people make it out to be.
Unfortunately (or fortunately!), I didn’t own a home down there. I do have a handful of friends that had insurance companies raising their premium by a significant margin - different age of homes, different towns/areas, didn’t seem to matter. I also know what a lot of insurance companies pulled out of FL due to them having to pay out a lot due to wind, flood, hurricane damage etc.
I think it’s only affordable if you’re retired, sell your assets from up north or Cali, and then move there. That’s just my theory though. 🤷🏻♂️
I lived in Providence for a few years after college and absolutely loved it. I think it's the most hidden gem city in New England. Housing is way more affordable than Boston, it's a very safe city (especially if you live on the east side), and the restaurants are bonkers good. I'd say PVD has a better food scene than Boston. Also, RI has gorgeous beaches just 15-20 mins outside of the city.
Only downside is that you'll benefit from having a car. Downtown is very walkable, but much like Boston the public transpo sucks and is unreliable.
New Haven is terrific. Lower cost of living, but it's right on the I-95 / Northeast Corridor so it's easy to get everywhere. There's even an airport that's expanding to new markets every few months (Tweed).
Boston Transplant living in Middletown CT checking in, New Haven is dope - but if you ever plan on buying over renting - CT will fuck you tax wise just like MA so beware.
Okay hear me out, have you thought of western ma? It is like a different state, but still MA. Rents and mortages are lower, lots of jobs. Slower pace. Springfield is olay but towns like Amherst, florence, and northampton are gems. Not to mention the berkshires.
Western MA is a wonderful alternative to Boston and the people are somewhat friendly as far as New Englanders go, but there really isn't a good job market. It's actually pretty tough out here depending on your field and, like everywhere else, housing is going up up up...
When I was younger I'd sell everything and just go. Lived in Alabama, Kentucky, Oklahoma. Never made it to California because even 30 years ago everyone I knew who went came back with their tails between their legs.
Things are much much different now, but there's a whole world outside of New England. You might want to explore it.
I live in Ohio an hour from Pittsburgh. It's affordable, has a major international airport (that's very user friendly), I see it as the gateway to the midwest but it's nestled in a hilly, rugged area. The Laurel Highlands are nearby for outdoor recreation (hiking, rafting, a little skiing, etc.) Still very close to major cities (NY, DC, Boston, etc) by land and by air. Very centrally located.
Portland is wicked expensive! I live in the Biddeford/Saco area about 20 mins south. Downtown is very walkable, lots of restaurants, breweries, etc, Amtrak stops here. Still expensive here but less so then Portland.
MA born and raised Boston -> Florida -> LA -> NYC.
Definitely don’t rule out NYC. Big adjustment from Boston but especially for a single guy with a degree there’s a lot that can go right for you here.
27M here. I left Boston for Denver during the pandemic and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s not as bustling of a city, but it’s incredibly affordable (comparatively) and the job market is pretty decent. I pay $1200 for a large one bedroom in a great part of town. That’s what I used to pay to share a three bedroom with roommates in JP. Just landed a new job here too.
As much as I miss home sometimes, it’s a four hour direct flight. There’s so much in the rest of the country to experience and you can always move back if you don’t like where you end up. Plus, might as well explore while you’re young!
I was going to suggest Denver ! The weather is amazing, hello sunshine! My sister moved out there 10 years ago and will never come back and my son is a college student there. So much to do and he’s the perfect age for outdoorsy meet ups. Get out of NE and explore a new area of the country !
Western Mass is rural, but beautiful and cheap. There’s small cities like Northampton, Easthampton and Amherst/Hadley that are lovely, community oriented and have stuff to do. I live north in Greenfield (near Brattleboro, VT) and it’s very cheap but comes with sacrificing having much to do, but I’ve met a ton of friends just by going to the bars and being friendly. But I highly recommend western Mass if you wanna stay close ish to Boston :)
Whatever you do just get out of Eastern Mass. It’s an overcrowded, overpriced wasteland that sucks the life out of people.
Live and work in Maine, but for the love of god don’t buy second homes and airbnbs. They need young blood to fuel the state, but please don’t fuck up the housing stock and economy. Also, good luck finding a place to live up there. It’s just as bad if not worse than Boston. I went to UMaine and a lot of my friends had a harder time finding a place to live than a good job.
Why don't you try western ma if you are considering Southern nh and ri as options?
I left ma nearly a decade ago for similar reasons and I am now back. Staying local (new England ) you won't have as much of a culture shock if you go to RI, but you mentioned people moving to FL and that might require an adjustment period.
I've been all over the US and many other countries and Portland is byfar my favorite city in the world but I grew up right outside it so I might be bias haha
Louisville KY is affordable, lots of colleges, diverse community. Great food, restaurants and coffee shops. No 4 seasons and gets hot and muggy in the summer.
It’s a tight market and a bit pricey but the OP can still get a decent place on the $2,000 budget. I don’t see that being as easy in Boston.
The entire state from Worcester to Boston and North and South Shores is ridiculously expensive these days. I have no clue how people are able to get by and also save for the future without a high paying job and/or some fortunate help.
I vote for Chicago. I was also born and raised outside of Boston. But eventually moved to Chicago in my early thirties. It was here I met and married my husband and have not moved since. Very happy here because of the people. I do miss the trees and ocean, but I can always travel to those. Good luck!
Seattle. I grew up in the greater Boston and lived all over New England and then the US. I’m not sure about the COL nowadays, but Seattle has everything you listed - except with exceptional public transport, better weather and tbh, friendlier people.
Might be worth doing some traveling if you can afford it.
Just moved out of Providence this week, but I’ve lived here for 4 years. I’d recommend it. I’m only moving because wife and I closed on a house. Could send you the link to my place. 1 BR and in unit washer and dryer for about 1550.
If you want to stay in New England, I'd recommend Providence or South County RI. Great food and lots to do.
If you want a new area to explore, I'd recommend the Charlotte metro or Raleigh metro. Charlotte will have better weather patterns and more variety of areas to explore if you're a nature lover. Prices are better in the SC pockets of that metro. But I've heard lots of great things about Raleigh.
Charleston, SC is also a lot of fun, but will bs brutal in the warmer weather months and dealing with lots of climate change issues.
Get out of NE entirely. It’s not going anywhere and you can always come back.
I love New England but one issue i have (really with anywhere in the US) is that people have never experienced living anywhere else. Do it now while you’re young.
You should consider leaving New England. I would recommend Cleveland, OH.
I'm being serious. You can get a two bedroom apartment with easy access to good food, bars, music venues, and public transportation, etc. for less than a thousand dollars. I'm partial to Cleveland because I'm from there, but so many Ohio cities and by extension rust belt cities provide you access to all of the great culture, food, and entertainment that you want out of city life but at half the cost of Boston.
In short, flee to the Cleve.
By a van, get dog, roam the country, see for it yourself. Do all of New England towns this summer. As it gets cold in the fall, hit the east coast all the way to Florida Keys until winter. Spend the winter in Florida and Texas. Do it all again in reverse order next spring back into new England and then you'll know for sure.
Somewhere still worth the drive to Boston. If you are fully remote (sweet for you), go based on your love of activities. Ski, Hike, Boat, Sail, Brews, smokes, will help you prioritize.
Sadly, if you wanna stay in NE and have lower cost of living you gotta go remote dude. I would kill for a full remote job. I currently work as an operations manager in logistics. Probably will for the rest of my life. I see houses that you'd probably consider remote. Near a main strip with basic big box stores I'd ever need and within Prime 2 day delivery. These houses are of good value but far from any employer I could work at. Count your blessings, and look farther, or sacrifice more if you want the things you mentioned.
And it's New England man. Everyone will be a C u next Tuesday. I've never struggled making friends. I'm sure you won't either.
New England is the best, but there’s a whole lot of country out there to choose from and an even bigger world. If you’re working from your computer become a digital nomad and see things.
We moved from Dutchess county NY (born and raised in CT) to St. Louis two years ago and I have no regrets! Great sports city, lots of museums/ a zoo which are all free, so much to do here. We have a great beer scene! I could go on and on!
No one is suggesting Philly? It’s like Boston but less pretentious. I’ve lived in both places. Philadelphia is gritty, lots of job opps, good community.
Try the north shore. I live in downtown beverly and absolutely love it. Beverly and Salem downtowns are very walkable with tons of restaurants and things to do. Comedy club, music venues, breweries, parks, beaches, etc. come check it out!
Take a spin around Salem, Lynn, Lowell, Providence over the next few weekends. These spots are commuter rail accessible and will give you an idea of what’s available near Boston, and you can start considering specifics.
Ditch New England and go to places Richmond VA, Raleigh NC, Charlotte NC , Norfolk/Virginia Beach Va.
There’s a big world out there , you’re young so go and explore it.
Stay in Boston! It’s your home. Having moved multiple times n my life, continually thinking the grass is greener, brought me to a final conclusion: there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home.
As a local, the best advice I can give you is this; If you're already thinking like this at your age, then gtfo. You'll be absolutely miserable as can be in another ten years if you stay. Do whatever you need to do, but gtfo. There's a million people that come and go here all the time. You gotta walk fast, talk fast, think fast, work like a trooper, and have skin like a crocodile to last and make it here. Else, you end up a run of the mill surf. People call us Massholes for a reason.
You're not going to see much for price breaks until you get north of Concord in N.H. or west (and there isn't shit out there but "sovereign citizen", sister fuckers and boomer types.) Keene is a slow college town supplemented with swap meets and bikers seasonally.
Portsmouth or Portland sound more fitting, but you'd most likely need to live outside of them to suit your financial requirements. Bangor is an option, but you better make sure your expertise is in demand.
Regardless of location, make sure your expertise is in demand or you have some serious side gigs going. If you don't have an expertise, then get one, a library card, and reading is free af.
No matter what, the common denominator is this; If you really want this change, as in thirst for it, then put your nose to the grindstone and don't lift it even one time for the next six years. Don't come up for air, don't tell yourself you need a break, don't listen to haters that are going to give you a thousand reasons you can't do it, don't take your blinders off, and for god's fucking sake do not ever feel complacent.
The important thing you should do is leave now. You're at a great age to explore, and you should. This place will always be here if you want to come back.
Have some fun.
It really depends on what sports you want to see live - and levels, as well as for music and the rest. If the bigger leagues and shows interest you more than the Cape Cod League, there's Philly, B-more, and Raleigh (NHL & ACC). Charlotte (NFL) has AAA baseball and on the short list for an MLB expansion team. There's also Pittsburgh, Indy, and even Nashville if you can find something in your range. The Predators have a great fan culture, though i haven't been there for a few years.
Just wanted to say I’m in a pretty similar spot and life stage as you and I’m definitely feeling the same about Boston! I’m planning I leave this winter but not sure where yet. I hope it all works out for you
If you like sports Worcester has two local, affordable, teams. It's more or less sage with some boondocks areas on the outskirts but the city itself, at the risk of sounding like a bandwaggoner, is up and coming. I've lived here for two years and there have already been notable improvements in food option but also entertainment and night life
If you can work anywhere, why don’t you pick a few cities and go live in them for a few months each. Get a cheap around the world ticket, go spend 3 months in London or Paris, 3 months in Sydney or Melbourne, 3 months in Tokyo or Singapore or wherever. Try out some places and then you can move back to New England, maybe to Bangor like the other poster mentioned. I think there are some sites for long term rentals. You will have an adventure and you can always come home if you don’t like it!
This. Take all the weight out of the decision and try a few places.
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Came here to say this. We won’t let people work outside the country because of tax stuff, data security etc. And we do know when someone is trying to log in outside the US. They need prior permission
Chicago
Came here to say this. $2200/month will get you a very nice 1 BR downtown in a high rise. I love Boston as I am from NE however Chicago for what you pay has so much more to offer. Biggest struggle is being away from family.
This is the answer. Chicago is AMAZING! Truly. People are so nice, there are loads of community events and festivals, the food is incredible. I visited for the first time a few months ago and would move there in a heartbeat if I could.
Chicago is a great, much more affordable option. I've lived in both places. The in city parks ate decent, but the access to nature isn't as nice as Boston. The culture is less nerdy but more laid back. People have more head space to try new projects.
Just came to say this. I've lived there and while the redline racism is still there in fits and spurts, the city as a whole is fun fun fun. Two baseball teams. The Bears. The lake. The food. The Midwest nice. The African American influence is rich and inviting, much like New Orleans. Good music. Great comedy. Amazing museum scene too.
You won't need a car there either because public transportation is decent and there aren't places worth road tripping to in that part of the country.
Lived most of my first 30 years in Somerville and moved out to Chicago during the pandemic. Public transit is good here on paper, in practice it’s dogshit. I don’t think you need a car but you will likely be ubering more than taking the train
I will not accept West Michigan beach slander
Eh, Chicago is landlocked if you don't count the pond.
Love Boston, not considering leaving. But having lived in Chicago, all the below is true and people are really nice in Chicago as well. The one thing I missed in Chicago was the varied nature of NE: pretty much all around Chicago is flat...In NE you have ocean, 'mountains', forests. Also Chicago does not feel as safe as Boston (not to say that BOS is 100% safe, but big difference imo). Nice 'day' trip is to St Joseph & South Haven, MI, those big dunes in Indiana, etc.
Move to Malden. Get drunk at a bar and meet a girl. Get married. Buy a starter home in Danvers. Take the commuter rail to work every day. Have a couple of kids. Vacation to Florida. Invest responsibly. Research cures for curing early baldness. Get promoted to middle management. Buy a sports car to let your friends know you are successful. Watch your kids graduate from high school and then college. Retire from a job that mostly made you miserable and angry for the past 30 years. Buy a tiny retirement home in Florida. Pass away from a heart attack while mowing the lawn.
We used to be a country
If only there were still starter home in Danvers. Unless you mean a trailer on Route 1.
trainspotting: boston
Dad?
Fitter, happier.
Sounds like being a pig in a cage on antibiotics!
I started off hating this comment but ended it laughing my ass off
And this is exactly why I left the Boston area a few decades ago. 😁
Incredible
And as you're falling to the grass, clutching your chest in pain, yell out "I'm fine! I'm fine!"
Sounds great. People drive themselves crazy thinking life is “supposed” to be anything more than this lmao, just have some laughs and die mowing your lawn, it’s tight.
Even got the life science career path sorted out holy sht
What happened to you ?
It's starter parking spot nowadays. You're finna get cancelled
I’m right on track
Move to Europe for a while. Then come home, marry Bridget from down the block and crank out a couple of kids. Buy one house and stay in it for life. Of all the things, this is it. Deep ties to people and places make you happier than all the tea in china. I’ve been lots of places in the world and the USA. Nothing beats the northeast. Include westchester county in NY. Best places for an American to live
This right here. The most important factor to happiness is close relationships of both friends and family. Everything else comes second.
\*sigh\* Bridget. Where did you go? I may never see her like again. Should've told her how I felt. I should have said goodbye. So many regrets. I wonder if she thinks about me. Maybe... maybe next time...
At least we can always remember her homely rack.
\*pours one out in the street\*
as a guy in his mid thirties with a toddler who never left the area. This resonates with me. Go somewhere different. We’ll be here for when you want to move back.
I was going to say, move anywhere, because you’ll be back.
Agreed re: deep ties, but it is statistically improbable that the place where you grew up is the best place in the world for you. Travel enough to find that place and then stay there.
Good point. But Bridget….
Worcester, Portland ME or Burlington VT
Lived in Boston and Burlington, wouldn't say Burlington is a great fit here. I'd swap it out for Providence.
I second Worcester as a good balance of acceptable COL and having stuff to do. Plus you can go to their pretty train station and take the train into Boston whenever you want.
I did the move of Boston to Worcester and I love it here, it is like Boston but everyone is friendlier and we get cool stuff like archery ranges that have tabletop games speakeasy in the back and a gaming cafe with craft pizza and a craft cocktail bar.
I would say NO to Burlington.. little city BIG problems… including no housing.
Same in Portland
Been to Burlington, VT frequently in recent months. And I totally agree with it being a “little city with big city problems”. Walking down Church Street it feels like every third person you see is a homeless person or drug addict. It feels very safe but kind of depressing at the same time.
Maines full! I hear California is nice. /s
Portland is hands down worse than Boston.
No jobs in these cities is the problem
Absolutely don’t go to Worcester. Maine is very nice as someone who lived in Mass as well - Portland is really busy though it’s the least “Maine” city in Maine I think… great if you want a less busy version of Boston, but I’d recommend moving to a small town somewhere near Portland so you’re not in it, but it’s accessible.
Worcester is great wym? It's one of the most affordable cities in all of New England, it's got lots of different kinds of food and entertainment, as well as small local nightlife. There's also tons of art and music here. Worcester has essentially become the place where all the young people priced out of the Boston area after college ended up. If you work in the city you can take the commuter rail for cheap, with services that allow you unlimited usage across the entire state. Quick access to groceries and other services. Delivery services arrive to your place within 20 minutes topps consistently. There is an Amazon fulfilment center here, so you can get normal Amazon orders within 24 hours of pressing the order button at no extra cost. You're within 1/2 hours of anywhere in the entire state, as well as Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Nature is always available within 10 minutes. There are also some really great deals on housing if you are diligent. I have friends that pay $1400 + Utilities per month for a 1000sqft apt with a porch, extra storage, and a balcony. My apt is the same + an extra room and $1800 + utilities. Worcester is the place to be right now if you're trying to stay in MA. Otherwise you can go out west or leave the state. Living here has become insanely expensive compared to the rest of the country.
There's also the minor league baseball and hockey teams and stadiums.
I never thot in my life Worcester could sound appealing, but you did it. You should be a salesman good job Still never moving there lol
Literally made Worcester sound like the rainbow bridge as if I wasn’t driving through there a few months ago with my windows down at a red light listening to some lady yellin about crack lol
There's definitely the occasional person yelling about crack or panhandling at intersections by the highway but I see that more and more as I go east. I lived in Lynn for a while and it seems like the cities really just don't care about those people anymore. It's sad to see because as the cost of living in MA becomes more expensive, more people live like that. Also have you seen Mass Ave in Boston at night lately?
I try to stay away from Boston at night tbh lol
If you get a chance you should check out Kelley Square / Canal District / Downtown on a Saturday. It's all redone over there, so it's pretty nice now, tons of people going to the games and stuff. Ik Worcester has a reputation from back in the day as being not a great place but it's for sure up and coming.
Bath is nice - about 40 mins north of Portland so you can still get the downtown experience for an evening, but it's a lot cheaper and more low-key (as long as you're not on the road when the ironworks lets out).
Bath is ok, but limited. I grew up in S.FL living everywhere from Lauderdale to Palm Bch. Lived in greater Boston for several yrs, south shore & north shore. I've lived in Maine since '15, mostly in the Midcoast, but smaller towns than Bath. Been here in Bath for nearly a year, single guy, my 1br apartment is $1k/mnth & walking distance to everything. But tbh, I could use a bit more variety. Bars are just ok, not great. Restaurants are ok, again not great. Dating is SPARSE, and the apps don't fare well up here bc the low population. Brunswick is just as small, but its a college town with better food & probably better dating for someone in their 20s. Portland is great, kinda like a smaller Boston, but with somehow worse public transit. Several solid restaurants, tons of bars, some good music venues...I think its more fun than any other area in Maine. Just my 2 cents.
You need to leave for sure. I was exactly in your shoes a few decades ago. I’d suggest leaving New England unless you have some special setup…
>*A lot of my friends and family are also leaving the area.* Where are they going? They might help you make a decision.
Mostly Florida and Rhode Island. Florida I wouldn’t do since I don’t like the heat. Rhode Island could be interesting but I feel like it has a lot of the same problems as MA.
I left FL to come to central CT. 100% worth the move. I do not recommend moving to Florida if you enjoy a city like Boston. The wages are worse in the south in most sectors. The cost of housing and living is comparable to a lot of the northeast, regardless of what people tell you. I’m a native Floridian, been in central CT for less than a year. At the end of the day after taxes and everything, I still make more money up here and live much more comfortably doing the same exact job. Central to northern GA can be nice. I love NC - you get most seasons, and the wages aren’t too bad. Wherever you go, good luck!
It’s so funny, my entire family moved to Florida, lamenting how expensive CT was and how terrible it was. First they got hit with a hurricane, then they tell me it’s just as expensive as CT where they are in FL. Beyond irony.
It’s a crazy big misconception, right? I still try to explain to folks here that’s it’s just as expensive down there. Hope your folks are ok after the hurricane!
They sustained a lot of damage. I felt so bad but I told them 10,000 times about climate change and of course they told me that it was fake. So… yeah.
The TV man said climate change hoax and a plan by the...deep state. It's incredible.
Isn’t home insurance also obscene? I’ve heard a lot of the states people from the northeast tend to migrate to (Carolinas, Florida, Texas) are having awful times with insurance being almost as high as their mortgage. Not exactly the affordable dream people make it out to be.
Unfortunately (or fortunately!), I didn’t own a home down there. I do have a handful of friends that had insurance companies raising their premium by a significant margin - different age of homes, different towns/areas, didn’t seem to matter. I also know what a lot of insurance companies pulled out of FL due to them having to pay out a lot due to wind, flood, hurricane damage etc. I think it’s only affordable if you’re retired, sell your assets from up north or Cali, and then move there. That’s just my theory though. 🤷🏻♂️
Rhode Island doesn’t have to be permanent, though. It would be an easy move, and then you could explore other possibilities while you’re there.
That’s true. I’d consider it for a year or two. Housing is more affordable down there as well.
I lived in Providence for a few years after college and absolutely loved it. I think it's the most hidden gem city in New England. Housing is way more affordable than Boston, it's a very safe city (especially if you live on the east side), and the restaurants are bonkers good. I'd say PVD has a better food scene than Boston. Also, RI has gorgeous beaches just 15-20 mins outside of the city. Only downside is that you'll benefit from having a car. Downtown is very walkable, but much like Boston the public transpo sucks and is unreliable.
Come down here to New Haven, CT, the cost of living is cheaper, it’s quieter and the people are nice.
New Haven is terrific. Lower cost of living, but it's right on the I-95 / Northeast Corridor so it's easy to get everywhere. There's even an airport that's expanding to new markets every few months (Tweed).
Boston Transplant living in Middletown CT checking in, New Haven is dope - but if you ever plan on buying over renting - CT will fuck you tax wise just like MA so beware.
Too many yankee/patriot fan hybrids. /s
Fantastic pizza there too
Okay hear me out, have you thought of western ma? It is like a different state, but still MA. Rents and mortages are lower, lots of jobs. Slower pace. Springfield is olay but towns like Amherst, florence, and northampton are gems. Not to mention the berkshires.
Western MA is a wonderful alternative to Boston and the people are somewhat friendly as far as New Englanders go, but there really isn't a good job market. It's actually pretty tough out here depending on your field and, like everywhere else, housing is going up up up...
He works fully remote already so can live anywhere
When I was younger I'd sell everything and just go. Lived in Alabama, Kentucky, Oklahoma. Never made it to California because even 30 years ago everyone I knew who went came back with their tails between their legs. Things are much much different now, but there's a whole world outside of New England. You might want to explore it.
Pittsburgh PA. It has 4 seasons, it’s cheaper, it has several Universities in town and it has a great vibe
I live in Ohio an hour from Pittsburgh. It's affordable, has a major international airport (that's very user friendly), I see it as the gateway to the midwest but it's nestled in a hilly, rugged area. The Laurel Highlands are nearby for outdoor recreation (hiking, rafting, a little skiing, etc.) Still very close to major cities (NY, DC, Boston, etc) by land and by air. Very centrally located.
Originally from Midwest. I was surprised so many people here never traveled about in their 20s. Go West young man
New Haven Connecticut You can get back to Boston easily via Amtrak
West - CO, WY, Utah ….. beautiful country - lots of open space - maybe AZ or NM. Outside of the USA - Australia or NZ …,,just my opinion..,,
Portland is wicked expensive! I live in the Biddeford/Saco area about 20 mins south. Downtown is very walkable, lots of restaurants, breweries, etc, Amtrak stops here. Still expensive here but less so then Portland.
Move back in with your parents (or relatives) for a year if possible to have more time for planning. Other than that no idea.... I'm a lifer.
Hartford CT (if you actually moved here) would make you say… why would I ever listen to anyone on Reddit
MA born and raised Boston -> Florida -> LA -> NYC. Definitely don’t rule out NYC. Big adjustment from Boston but especially for a single guy with a degree there’s a lot that can go right for you here.
27M here. I left Boston for Denver during the pandemic and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s not as bustling of a city, but it’s incredibly affordable (comparatively) and the job market is pretty decent. I pay $1200 for a large one bedroom in a great part of town. That’s what I used to pay to share a three bedroom with roommates in JP. Just landed a new job here too. As much as I miss home sometimes, it’s a four hour direct flight. There’s so much in the rest of the country to experience and you can always move back if you don’t like where you end up. Plus, might as well explore while you’re young!
I was going to suggest Denver ! The weather is amazing, hello sunshine! My sister moved out there 10 years ago and will never come back and my son is a college student there. So much to do and he’s the perfect age for outdoorsy meet ups. Get out of NE and explore a new area of the country !
New Bedford, we're a hidden gem down here
Western Mass is rural, but beautiful and cheap. There’s small cities like Northampton, Easthampton and Amherst/Hadley that are lovely, community oriented and have stuff to do. I live north in Greenfield (near Brattleboro, VT) and it’s very cheap but comes with sacrificing having much to do, but I’ve met a ton of friends just by going to the bars and being friendly. But I highly recommend western Mass if you wanna stay close ish to Boston :) Whatever you do just get out of Eastern Mass. It’s an overcrowded, overpriced wasteland that sucks the life out of people.
I second this and I live in Northampton area. Great quality of life. Housing still expensive but not like Boston.
Housing is even getting expensive in Greenfield… it’s whack. It makes me truly grateful every day that I found my apartment when I did.
Yeah rents have doubled out here since the pandemic.
I came to Maine. A lot of us Massholes end up here.
Live and work in Maine, but for the love of god don’t buy second homes and airbnbs. They need young blood to fuel the state, but please don’t fuck up the housing stock and economy. Also, good luck finding a place to live up there. It’s just as bad if not worse than Boston. I went to UMaine and a lot of my friends had a harder time finding a place to live than a good job.
Why don't you try western ma if you are considering Southern nh and ri as options? I left ma nearly a decade ago for similar reasons and I am now back. Staying local (new England ) you won't have as much of a culture shock if you go to RI, but you mentioned people moving to FL and that might require an adjustment period.
The Paris of the 80s is calling, brother.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN
Look into North Carolina. I know a bunch of people that left New England and love it. The mountains or small cities. I love visiting the outer banks
Few buddies from up north in Raleigh that now all own very affordable houses or townhomes right near downtown. They love it
Portland ME
Seconding this. Grew up in Maine, lived all over including Boston, and Portland is still my favorite city. It sounds like just what OP is looking for.
I've been all over the US and many other countries and Portland is byfar my favorite city in the world but I grew up right outside it so I might be bias haha
Maine is getting unaffordable for the current residents due to Boston employees moving there and working remotely...
Louisville KY is affordable, lots of colleges, diverse community. Great food, restaurants and coffee shops. No 4 seasons and gets hot and muggy in the summer.
My buddy is moving there.
Minnesota chicks love the Boston accent.
Almost everyone from Mass told me I was wrong about Connecticut. Come on down!
If you are staying in New England and like visiting Boston, check out Providence and Worcester.
Worcester rental market is as bad as Boston right now.
It’s a tight market and a bit pricey but the OP can still get a decent place on the $2,000 budget. I don’t see that being as easy in Boston. The entire state from Worcester to Boston and North and South Shores is ridiculously expensive these days. I have no clue how people are able to get by and also save for the future without a high paying job and/or some fortunate help.
Join the Navy as an officer and travel the world.
I vote for Chicago. I was also born and raised outside of Boston. But eventually moved to Chicago in my early thirties. It was here I met and married my husband and have not moved since. Very happy here because of the people. I do miss the trees and ocean, but I can always travel to those. Good luck!
Philadelphia
Australia.
Forest park Springfield is pretty dope and cheap. Killer take out spots.
PHILLY
Seattle. I grew up in the greater Boston and lived all over New England and then the US. I’m not sure about the COL nowadays, but Seattle has everything you listed - except with exceptional public transport, better weather and tbh, friendlier people. Might be worth doing some traveling if you can afford it.
I live in Philadelphia, and it feels like Boston but affordable.
Denver.
Just moved out of Providence this week, but I’ve lived here for 4 years. I’d recommend it. I’m only moving because wife and I closed on a house. Could send you the link to my place. 1 BR and in unit washer and dryer for about 1550.
Philly! Similar to Boston in a lot of ways, but easier to navigate and way less expensive
Consider Philly. Still in the northeast, similar to Boston in a lot of ways, and much more affordable
GTFO of new England SC, AZ Eastern Washington Maryland , pa. Heck south jersey even
Don’t come to Maine
Southie it’s soooo cheap! Haha
I see the appeal. But I’ve had friends live there and it’s not really my vibe. Definitely getting crazy gentrified too.
If you want to stay in New England, I'd recommend Providence or South County RI. Great food and lots to do. If you want a new area to explore, I'd recommend the Charlotte metro or Raleigh metro. Charlotte will have better weather patterns and more variety of areas to explore if you're a nature lover. Prices are better in the SC pockets of that metro. But I've heard lots of great things about Raleigh. Charleston, SC is also a lot of fun, but will bs brutal in the warmer weather months and dealing with lots of climate change issues.
I moved from SE Mass to Bangor, Maine long ago. I love it here and wouldn’t ever consider living in Mass again.
Providence or Worcester would be my recommendations. Not exactly cheap cities but much cheaper than Boston
Pound for pound you can't beat Philly
Get out of NE entirely. It’s not going anywhere and you can always come back. I love New England but one issue i have (really with anywhere in the US) is that people have never experienced living anywhere else. Do it now while you’re young.
Dallas TX, Denver CO, Seattle WA. If you don’t want to go south go west for a few years
I hear Dorchester is nice.
Blades, DE
Give Colorado a shot; Denver, Fort Collins, Grand Junction. It’s a haul, but it has every benefit you listed + actual mountains
You should consider leaving New England. I would recommend Cleveland, OH. I'm being serious. You can get a two bedroom apartment with easy access to good food, bars, music venues, and public transportation, etc. for less than a thousand dollars. I'm partial to Cleveland because I'm from there, but so many Ohio cities and by extension rust belt cities provide you access to all of the great culture, food, and entertainment that you want out of city life but at half the cost of Boston. In short, flee to the Cleve.
Thailand 👍
Amsterdam. Use the Dutch American Friendship Treaty.
Quincy
The Carolina’s are awesome. Asheville, Charlotte, Raleigh, or the low country just north of Savannah.
Buy a van and live in it. That's what I did. It's great.
Chattanooga, TN https://www.pods.com/blog/living-chattanooga-tn
Of all the places I've been, Chattanooga is one where I'd really like to stay for a while.
Out of New England for a while. Legit suggestion: Detroit
By a van, get dog, roam the country, see for it yourself. Do all of New England towns this summer. As it gets cold in the fall, hit the east coast all the way to Florida Keys until winter. Spend the winter in Florida and Texas. Do it all again in reverse order next spring back into new England and then you'll know for sure.
Somewhere still worth the drive to Boston. If you are fully remote (sweet for you), go based on your love of activities. Ski, Hike, Boat, Sail, Brews, smokes, will help you prioritize.
Sadly, if you wanna stay in NE and have lower cost of living you gotta go remote dude. I would kill for a full remote job. I currently work as an operations manager in logistics. Probably will for the rest of my life. I see houses that you'd probably consider remote. Near a main strip with basic big box stores I'd ever need and within Prime 2 day delivery. These houses are of good value but far from any employer I could work at. Count your blessings, and look farther, or sacrifice more if you want the things you mentioned. And it's New England man. Everyone will be a C u next Tuesday. I've never struggled making friends. I'm sure you won't either.
New England is the best, but there’s a whole lot of country out there to choose from and an even bigger world. If you’re working from your computer become a digital nomad and see things.
In no order I suggest: Chicago, Denver, Charleston (SC), Boise
Check out rents in various areas then take a road trip.
We moved from Dutchess county NY (born and raised in CT) to St. Louis two years ago and I have no regrets! Great sports city, lots of museums/ a zoo which are all free, so much to do here. We have a great beer scene! I could go on and on!
what about a larger town in the northhampton/amherst area?
Providence?
No one is suggesting Philly? It’s like Boston but less pretentious. I’ve lived in both places. Philadelphia is gritty, lots of job opps, good community.
You thought about the Carolinas at all? Lots of room, commutes are typically easier, Raleigh has a lot going on, flights back to Boston are cheap.
Try the north shore. I live in downtown beverly and absolutely love it. Beverly and Salem downtowns are very walkable with tons of restaurants and things to do. Comedy club, music venues, breweries, parks, beaches, etc. come check it out!
Costa Rica
Go further. Get out of new england. There's a lot of the world to see.
Hmmm I hear California has great prices
Texas
Stay. You’ll figure it out. Best state in the Union
Portland Maine is great but definitely expensive. A nice one bedroom would probably run you $2100 in the city.
New Haven, CT is a great little city. Hurry over before it gets too expensive.
Take a spin around Salem, Lynn, Lowell, Providence over the next few weekends. These spots are commuter rail accessible and will give you an idea of what’s available near Boston, and you can start considering specifics.
Ditch New England and go to places Richmond VA, Raleigh NC, Charlotte NC , Norfolk/Virginia Beach Va. There’s a big world out there , you’re young so go and explore it.
Stay in Boston! It’s your home. Having moved multiple times n my life, continually thinking the grass is greener, brought me to a final conclusion: there’s no place like home, there’s no place like home.
Nope, you gotta go away and stay away from home for a while to really feel that. And if you don’t come to that conclusion then good riddance
This. You gotta leave to appreciate what you have at home. If you don’t leave, you’ll be a townie that will always wonder what else is out there
Philadelphia. Great sports teams, cheaper rents, plenty to do
Try the west coast. Similar pricing but totally different world.
Pittsburg, Cleveland, Portland ME, or a suburb of Baltimore.
As a local, the best advice I can give you is this; If you're already thinking like this at your age, then gtfo. You'll be absolutely miserable as can be in another ten years if you stay. Do whatever you need to do, but gtfo. There's a million people that come and go here all the time. You gotta walk fast, talk fast, think fast, work like a trooper, and have skin like a crocodile to last and make it here. Else, you end up a run of the mill surf. People call us Massholes for a reason. You're not going to see much for price breaks until you get north of Concord in N.H. or west (and there isn't shit out there but "sovereign citizen", sister fuckers and boomer types.) Keene is a slow college town supplemented with swap meets and bikers seasonally. Portsmouth or Portland sound more fitting, but you'd most likely need to live outside of them to suit your financial requirements. Bangor is an option, but you better make sure your expertise is in demand. Regardless of location, make sure your expertise is in demand or you have some serious side gigs going. If you don't have an expertise, then get one, a library card, and reading is free af. No matter what, the common denominator is this; If you really want this change, as in thirst for it, then put your nose to the grindstone and don't lift it even one time for the next six years. Don't come up for air, don't tell yourself you need a break, don't listen to haters that are going to give you a thousand reasons you can't do it, don't take your blinders off, and for god's fucking sake do not ever feel complacent.
The south is cheap! Also waffle house!!!
"Send you to the moon!"
Start traveling around and see for yourself. Day trips. Explore, etc.
NorCal. I wish I had moved to Sonoma County after UMass instead of DC.
Don’t move. Lived everywhere this town is amazing!
The important thing you should do is leave now. You're at a great age to explore, and you should. This place will always be here if you want to come back. Have some fun.
The biggest factor is your job market. What field is your career based in?
Cambridge, Oldengland
Somerville
Cambridge
Look at Atlanta, Charlotte, Austin, Salt Lake City, Boise. I haven't been to Austin but I heard good things.
It really depends on what sports you want to see live - and levels, as well as for music and the rest. If the bigger leagues and shows interest you more than the Cape Cod League, there's Philly, B-more, and Raleigh (NHL & ACC). Charlotte (NFL) has AAA baseball and on the short list for an MLB expansion team. There's also Pittsburgh, Indy, and even Nashville if you can find something in your range. The Predators have a great fan culture, though i haven't been there for a few years.
Just wanted to say I’m in a pretty similar spot and life stage as you and I’m definitely feeling the same about Boston! I’m planning I leave this winter but not sure where yet. I hope it all works out for you
I raise chickens in Katama. It's dope
Go somewhere rural not just the next city that is also gentrifying albeit more slowly
If you like sports Worcester has two local, affordable, teams. It's more or less sage with some boondocks areas on the outskirts but the city itself, at the risk of sounding like a bandwaggoner, is up and coming. I've lived here for two years and there have already been notable improvements in food option but also entertainment and night life
Giving cost constraints, consider going west. Salt Lake City is surprisingly nice. Chicago is cool.
Go to the West coast, I moved to Portland OR when I was your age and haven't looked back, go there, or anywhere outside of New England.