Cost to Move to Boston: Complete Relocation Budget Guide

Thinking about moving to Boston and wondering what it really costs? Between movers, city permits, deposits, and higher-than-average utilities, it adds up fast. You want a clear, realistic number before you commit. This guide breaks down one-time move costs and monthly expenses, the key local rules you should know, and simple sample budgets you can use today. Let’s dive in.

What it costs to move in Boston

One-time move-day costs

• Professional movers (local): For a small studio or 1-bed, plan roughly $500–$1,200. A larger 2–3 bed local move can run $1,200–$3,000+. Get at least three written quotes and ask about hourly minimums, travel time, and insurance coverage. HomeAdvisor’s guide to moving costs is a useful benchmark.
• DIY truck rental: Expect a daily base rate plus mileage and fuel. For a local move, budget about $150–$800 depending on truck size and distance. See Boston-specific ranges from MoveBuddha.
• City moving-truck permit: To reserve curb space and avoid tickets, apply for a one-day permit. Fees commonly start around $69 for non-metered areas and are higher when meters are involved. Apply through the City of Boston Moving Truck Portal.
• Packing supplies: Boxes, tape, and protection typically cost $50–$300, depending on how much you pack and whether you buy kits.
• Building logistics: Many condo and apartment buildings require elevator reservations and insurance certificates for movers. Budget $0–$200 in admin fees as needed.
• Short-term storage: If you need a stopgap, self-storage near the city often starts around $80–$200 per month depending on size and location.
• Incidentals: Set aside $50–$200 for tolls, parking challenges, or unexpected tickets. Avoid low-clearance roads when driving rental trucks; Storrow Drive is a common hazard for box trucks.

Move-in costs for renters

• Up-front cash: Plan on first month’s rent, a security deposit (Massachusetts caps this at one month of rent), and sometimes last month’s rent. The security-deposit basics are explained on MassLegalHelp. In practice, many renters bring 1–3 months’ rent to move in.
• Broker fee note: Massachusetts updated broker-fee rules in 2025. Confirm current practice in your situation and always get receipts in writing.
• Rent context: Citywide averages trend high and vary by neighborhood. You can review current local rent data on RentCafe’s Boston market page.

Move-in costs for buyers

• Down payment: Typical down payments range from 3% to 20%. With Boston’s city median sale prices around the high six to low seven figures, even 10% to 20% is a substantial number.
• Closing costs: Buyers in Massachusetts often pay about 2%–5% of the purchase price in closing costs for items like title, lender fees, and prepaids. Get a detailed estimate from your lender. Learn more about typical closing fees from LowerMyBills.
• Moving and setup: Add $1,000–$5,000 for movers, permits, and initial home setup depending on scope.

Your monthly budget in Boston

Housing and utilities

• Rent or mortgage: Budget carefully and price by neighborhood. Even modest differences in location can change your monthly number.
• Utilities: For a typical apartment, combined electricity, gas, and water often run $150–$300+ per month, with winter higher. Electricity prices in the Boston metro have averaged about $0.30 per kWh, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Internet: Most plans fall around $55–$100 per month depending on provider and speed.
• Renters insurance: Often about $15–$30 per month. Many landlords ask for proof of coverage.

Getting around: MBTA or car

• MBTA: An unlimited LinkPass for subway and local bus is currently $90 per calendar month. Commuter rail passes vary by zone and run higher. Check current pricing on the MBTA pass page.
• Car costs: Resident street parking permits are available through the city, but off-street or garage parking often costs extra and can be significant in central neighborhoods. See rules for resident permits on Boston.gov.

Boston-specific rules to know

• Moving-truck permits: Apply online, ideally two weeks ahead, and post city “No Parking” signs as instructed before your move date. Start with the City of Boston Moving Truck Portal.
• Security deposits: Landlords cannot collect a security deposit larger than one month’s rent in Massachusetts. Always get a written receipt and itemized move-in documentation. See MassLegalHelp.
• Utility deposits: Massachusetts regulations state that residential gas and electric providers cannot require a deposit as a condition of service. Review 220 CMR 27.00 via Cornell Law’s resource, and verify timing with your utility.

Timeline for a smooth move

• 6–8 weeks out: Get three written moving quotes. If moving in peak season or month-end, secure dates now.
• 4–6 weeks out: Reserve elevators and loading docks, confirm certificates of insurance, and set up renter’s or homeowner’s insurance.
• 2–3 weeks out: Apply for a Boston moving-truck permit and plan sign posting per city rules. Start packing and label boxes by room.
• 1 week out: Confirm mover arrival windows and building access. Prep a essentials box with documents and daily items.

Sample budgets you can copy

Renter: studio or 1-bed local move

• Moving help or DIY truck: $400–$1,200
• Packing supplies: $75–$200
• City moving permit: $69–$109
• First month + security deposit (cap = 1 month) ± last month: 2–3 times monthly rent
• Initial insurance and utilities: $50–$400
• Typical total move-in cash (excluding ongoing rent): about $3,000–$9,000 depending on rent level and services

Buyer: $800,000 condo purchase (example)

• Down payment (20% example): $160,000
• Buyer closing costs (2%–5%): $16,000–$40,000
• Movers, permits, setup: $1,000–$5,000
• Plus first mortgage payment and escrows per lender estimate

Quick budget checklist

Pro tips from Boston locals

• Get written, itemized quotes and ask about travel time, fuel, and insurance.
• Book mid-week or mid-month if possible to avoid peak pricing.
• Reserve elevators and loading docks early, and bring certificates of insurance movers will need.
• Avoid low-clearance roadways with rental trucks, especially Storrow Drive.
• Do the math on transit. An MBTA LinkPass at $90 per month can be far cheaper than car ownership in core neighborhoods.

Ready to make your move with clarity and confidence? For neighborhood-specific numbers, building insights, and a tailored plan, connect with Steve Losordo & Jillian Reig for one-on-one guidance.

FAQs

How much do movers charge per hour in Boston?

• Local movers often charge per mover per hour, and Boston pricing tends to sit on the higher end of national ranges. Always ask about hourly minimums and travel time, and get a written estimate.

Do you need a moving-truck permit in Boston?

• You are not required to have one in every situation, but reserving curb space through the city helps you avoid tickets and towing. Plan on about $69 for non-metered areas, higher with meters, and follow sign-posting rules.

How much cash should a renter bring to move into a Boston apartment?

• Plan for first month’s rent plus a security deposit up to one month, and sometimes last month. That typically equals 1–3 months of rent due at move-in under common practice and Massachusetts rules.

Will Boston utilities require a deposit for new residential service?

• Massachusetts regulations state that residential gas and electric providers cannot require a deposit as a condition of service, though you still need to set up accounts and plan for first bills.

What should you budget monthly for transit and utilities in Boston?

• Many households spend $150–$300+ on basic utilities for an average apartment, $55–$100 for internet, and $90 for an MBTA LinkPass. Add commuter rail costs or parking if you keep a car.