Moving from New York City to Boston?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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New York City to Boston Movers

Moving from the bustling streets of New York City, the Big Apple, to Boston's historic charm is not just a relocation; it's embarking on an exciting adventure, a significant life change. As you leave behind NYC's never-sleeping energy and diverse culinary scene for Boston's rich history, vibrant neighborhoods, and unique blend of modernity and tradition, the transition is thrilling yet significant. To ensure this important move is smooth and stress-free, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers, such as our team at Great Guys Moving, who utilize an unbiased ranking algorithm to truly determine the best movers for your journey.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to New York City guide.

5 Best New York City to Boston Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
JP Urban Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 4,145+ data points

Location DotBrooklyn, NY
GearLocal NYC Moving, Long Distance Moving, Office Moving, Business Moving See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2096754 Verify

About JP Urban Moving

JP Urban Moving is a small family-owned business in Brooklyn with over 15 years of experience. Its goal is always to give you the best custo...Read More >>

top new york city 2024 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2023 jp urban moving image
top 10 ranked movers in new york city 2022 jp urban moving image
#2
Metropolis Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,535+ data points

Location DotBrooklyn, NY
GearLocal moving services, Long-distance moving services, Commercial moving services See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/6/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 2781573 Verify

About Metropolis Moving

Metropolis Moving is a top-rated, licensed, and insured Brooklyn mover serving the greater Tri-State area, including all of Long Island and ...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2023 metropolis moving image
top 10 ranked movers in queens 2022 metropolis moving image
#3
Flex Moving and Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,380+ data points

Location DotBrooklyn, NY
GearLocal moves, Commercial moves, Long distance moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3610638 Verify

About Flex Moving and Storage

With its domicile in Astoria, New York, Flex Moving and Storage carries a decade long European establishment. The company's range of service...Read More >>

top 3 new york city 2024 flex moving and storage image
#4
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Location DotBoston, MA
GearLocal moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 1696867 Verify

About Stairhopper Movers

Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>

top 3 boston 2024 stairhopper movers image
top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#5
Centaur Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,675+ data points

Location DotCambridge, MA
GearLocal Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Relocations See More
Circle CheckAuthorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

Circle DotUSDOT: 3638077 Verify

About Centaur Moving

Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>

top 3 boston 2024 centaur moving image

Relocating from New York City to Boston Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can feel overwhelming, especially when moving to a city you're unfamiliar with. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison that aligns New York City, NY & Boston, MA neighborhoods , leveraging what you know to help you navigate your soon-to-be new home. This guide serves to familiarize you with Boston by comparing its neighborhoods to those in New York City, making your move a little less daunting.

New York CityBoston
Upper East SideBeacon Hill

Historic architecture, upscale living

WilliamsburgSouth End

Vibrant arts scene, trendy eateries

SohoBack Bay

Fashionable shopping, chic atmosphere

Greenwich VillageNorth End

Rich history, lively cultural scene

HarlemRoxbury

Diverse community, cultural heritage

DumboSeaport District

Waterfront views, modern development

Midtown ManhattanDowntown Boston

Bustling business district, historic landmarks

ChelseaFenway

Artistic community, green spaces

Financial DistrictFinancial District

Central business hub, waterfront access

AstoriaJamaica Plain

Diverse population, green spaces

In comparing the heart of NYC with Boston's thriving communities, these parallels draw a fascinating picture of city living that maintains unique cultural and architectural flairs. For example, if you're enamored by the Upper East Side's elegant row houses and the tranquil oasis of Central Park, you'll find Beacon Hill's cobblestone streets and the nearby Boston Common equally captivating. Similarly, Williamsburg and the South End share a vibrant creative energy, showcased in local galleries like the Soprafina Gallery and trendy dining spots like the Row 34. Both neighborhoods offer a plethora of unique, local experiences, seamlessly blending the historical with the hip. This guide intends to provide a foundational step towards imagining your life in vibrant, historic, and culturally rich Boston, making the big move feel a bit more like coming home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from New York City to Boston

Moving from New York City, NY to Boston, MA offers both challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of this relocation, helping you weigh the differences and similarities. Let’s delve into how the change might affect your lifestyle.

CONs
PROs
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Higher living costs
  • Intense urban hustle
  • Dense population
  • Longer commutes
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Lower living costs
  • Calmer city vibe
  • Less crowded
  • Shorter commutes
Boston, MA iconBoston, MA
  • Smaller scene
  • Less variety
  • Fewer attractions
  • Smaller transit system
New York City, NY iconNew York City, NY
  • Vibrant City Life
  • Diverse dining
  • Endless entertainment
  • Extensive subway

While Boston may not rival the endless dining and entertainment options of New York City, it boasts a vibrant scene in neighborhoods like the North End and Back Bay. These areas are teeming with historic charm, unique restaurants like Neptune Oyster, and picturesque parks such as the Boston Common. Boston’s smaller transit system is made up for by its walkability and the availability of communal spaces like the Charles River Esplanade, offering a blend of urban living with easier access to nature and less crowded living conditions. Despite the fewer attractions, Boston presents a quality of life that is hard to match, with a calmer city vibe and a community-centric atmosphere.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from New York City to Boston

This comparison of the local cuisine between New York City & Boston gives insight into the food scene of each, highlighting an integral part of local culture and living experience. Whether you're moving for a taste of the big city life or the historical charm, here's what your palate can expect.

New York CityBoston

Most iconic local food item

Bagel
Clam Chowder

Most popular meat dish

Pastrami on Rye
Lobster Roll

Most popular street food item

Pizza
Food Trucks' Seafood

Most popular vegan food

Avocado Toast
Jackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Katz's Delicatessen
  • Dominique Ansel Bakery
  • Per Se
  • Union Oyster House
  • Neptune Oyster
  • Menton

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

8
7

Abundance of Food Trucks

7
8

Foodie Scene

9
8

Vegan Friendly

9
7

In Boston, the cherished New England Clam Chowder can be enjoyed at its best along the harbor, especially near the historic Union Oyster House, one of the city's most iconic restaurants. Seafood lovers will feel at home in neighborhoods like the North End and the Seaport District, where lobster rolls and fresh oysters dominate the food scene. The city's food trucks, notably around areas like Boston Common, provide a gourmet, street food twist on traditional seafood. Whether it's the classic clam chowder or the innovative jackfruit tacos catering to the vegan crowd, Boston's gastronomic landscape promises variety and flavor.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from New York City to Boston

Understanding the culinary landscape of your new city can significantly enhance your sense of belonging. This New York City to Boston restaurant comparison is designed to help you transition smoothly by finding your new favorite dining spots, using familiar establishments from your current city as benchmarks.

Le BernardinOstra

High-end seafood with a sophisticated ambiance

Katz's DelicatessenSam LaGrassa's

Known for iconic sandwiches and deli classics

Di Fara PizzaRegina Pizzeria

Historic pizzeria with a loyal following

Momofuku Noodle BarMyers + Chang

Creative takes on Asian dishes in a funky setting

Per SeL’Espalier

Exquisite French cuisine and an extensive wine list

Joe's ShanghaiGourmet Dumpling House

Renowned for soup dumplings and Chinese specialties

Shake ShackTasty Burger

Casual spot for burgers and shakes with a cult following

The Halal GuysShawarma Falafel

Popular for Middle Eastern street food staples

Dominique Ansel BakeryTatte Bakery & Cafe

A local favorite for pastries and creative desserts

CarboneGiacomo's Ristorante

Beloved for Italian-American classics in an intimate setting

Each restaurant in Boston has been carefully selected to offer a taste of home for those moving from New York City. L’Espalier and Per Se both provide an unforgettable high-end dining experience, emphasizing impeccable service and sophisticated cuisine. For a more casual yet equally iconic dining experience, Katz's Delicatessen finds its match in Sam LaGrassa's, where the focus on quality and tradition ensures the deli sandwich is elevated to an art form. Meanwhile, pizza aficionados will appreciate the commitment to authenticity and atmosphere at both Di Fara Pizza and Regina Pizzeria, ensuring that your cravings for a slice of the city are well catered to in your new Bostonian life.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from New York City to Boston

When moving, understanding the real estate market in your new city is crucial. This comparison between New York City and Boston will help you grasp the key differences in housing, including cost, architecture, and livability.

The median home price in New York City stands at $760,000, showcasing the city's expensive and high-demand real estate market. In contrast, Boston's median home price is slightly lower at $632,000, offering somewhat more affordable options without sacrificing the urban lifestyle. While both cities boast excellent walkability scores, New York City edges out with a perfect score due to its extensive subway system and pedestrian-friendly streets. Architecture in Boston tends to emphasize its historical roots, with many properties featuring Victorian and Colonial styles, whereas New York City favors modern and Art Deco styles, reflecting its evolution toward the sky.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA

1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.

2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.

3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.

Weather Considerations for Moving from New York City to Boston

When relocating from New York City to Boston, understanding how the weather compares can greatly influence your preparation and adaptation to your new city. The following charts will help visualize the weather differences to anticipate.

Summer icon
85/71

New York City, NY

82/65

Boston, MA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39/26

New York City, NY

36/22

Boston, MA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
49.9

New York City, NY

43.8

Boston, MA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
25.8

New York City, NY

48.0

Boston, MA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

While both New York City and Boston experience all four seasons, Boston's winters are notably harsher, with average temperatures being slightly lower, and a significant increase in annual snowfall—nearly double that of New York City. If you're accustomed to modest winters, Boston's snowstorms will require adjustments, from wardrobe changes to understanding snow removal policies. On the other end, summers in Boston may feel slightly more comfortable due to marginally lower temperatures and humidity levels. Moving implies adapting, and anticipating these weather variations can smooth your transition.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from New York City to Boston

Moving from one city to another requires a keen understanding of how the money and finance aspects compare. This comparison will help you gauge the differences in cost of living, tax burdens, and economic opportunities between New York City and Boston . It's essential to understand these differences to adjust your budget and lifestyle accordingly.

When comparing New York City and Boston, you'll find that both cities offer robust economic opportunities but at different costs of living. While New York City boasts a higher average household income, the city also demands a higher cost of living, making Boston slightly more affordable in that aspect. However, Boston's state income tax is fixed at 5%, which is simpler compared to New York's variable rates. Property and sales taxes are also lower in Boston, providing some financial relief. However, it's important to consider that the choice of city will also impact your lifestyle and career prospects in the top industries prevalent in each city. Despite the financial differences, both cities are centers of affluence with thriving industries, yet they also face challenges with poverty and homelessness.

Political & Religious Comparison between New York City, NY and Boston, MA

In this brief overview, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot to understand the political and religious makeup of the residents between New York City & Boston . This comparison aims to offer insights into the communities you're transitioning between, highlighting the political leanings, local political dynamics, and predominant religious affiliations.

New York CityBoston

Political Make-up

Liberal/DemocraticLiberal/Democratic

Local Politics

Democratic dominance, with progressive tendenciesDemocratic dominance, but open to moderate voices

Religion

Diverse: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and moreDiverse, with a strong Roman Catholic presence

While both New York City and Boston share a broadly liberal and Democratic political makeup, the nuances in their local politics set them apart. New York City is known for its progressive tendencies, robustly supporting Democratic candidates who advocate for wide-ranging social reforms. Boston, whilst also Democratic, tends to embrace a broader spectrum, including more moderate voices that contribute to its political discussions. Religion in both cities reflects their cosmopolitan populations. New York's religious landscape is incredibly diverse, including large communities of Christians, Jews, Muslims, and others. Boston's religious fabric is similarly diverse but has a notably strong Roman Catholic presence, reflecting both historical and contemporary demographics. This comparison highlights the vibrant and varying cultural tapestries that contribute to the unique character of each city.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from New York City to Boston

Moving from one city to another comes with its challenges and adjustments, especially when it comes to navigating your daily commute. This guide aims to help you understand the differences between driving/transiting in New York City & Boston so you can better anticipate what your daily commute and traffic will look like.

New York CityBoston
4030

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

97

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

108

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

YesYes, but less convenient

Can you get by without car?

When comparing New York City and Boston, you'll find that both cities offer robust public transit systems, though New York City's is more extensive, therefore making it easier to get by without a car. The average commute time in New York City is notably longer, which might be due to its larger geographical size and denser population. Although both cities experience traffic congestion, it's more pronounced in New York City. Understanding these differences can help you better prepare for your daily travels and potentially adjust your living or commuting arrangements for a smoother transition to Boston.

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