Living in Massachusetts
Last updated on Feb 19, 2023
Summary: People often describe life in Massachusetts as vibrant, diverse, and full of opportunity. People love the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the state. Massachusetts is home to some of the best universities in the world, and the state is known for its excellent public schools. The average cost of living in Massachusetts is higher than the national average. The median home price in Massachusetts is around $400,000, and the median rent is around $1,500. The cost of living in the larger cities such as Boston and Cambridge is significantly higher than the rest of the state. The population of Massachusetts is approximately 6.9 million people. The largest cities in Massachusetts are Boston, Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, Cambridge, and New Bedford. The cons of living in Massachusetts include the high cost of living, traffic congestion, and the cold winters. Additionally, the state has some of the highest taxes in the country.
Is the cost of living in Massachusetts high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Massachusetts, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Massachusetts is relatively high compared to other US states, with average rental rates higher than the US national average, and costs for goods and services also generally higher than many other US states. A nice one bedroom apartment in Massachusetts usually costs around $1,400 per month, while a nice two bedroom can cost up to $2,200 per month. Eating out at a moderately priced restaurant could cost anywhere from $15-$25 per person depending on the establishment," mentioned one expat inMassachusetts.
What type of recreational facilities are in Massachusetts?
When we asked people living in Massachusetts about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"In Massachusetts, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, beaches, trails, and golf courses. There are also many museums, art galleries, and theaters for those who prefer cultural activities. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and boating. Massachusetts also has a number of ski resorts and snowboarding parks for winter sports. In addition, there are many sports complexes and fitness centers for those who want to stay active," mentioned an expat living in Massachusetts.
What is the weather like in Massachusetts?
"The weather in Massachusetts can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach the high 80s and 90s with high humidity. In the winter, temperatures can drop to the single digits and below with snowfall. Spring and fall are generally mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s," mentioned one expat inMassachusetts.
Are there good restaurants in Massachusetts?
"One of the most popular restaurants in Massachusetts is The Friendly Toast in Cambridge. This restaurant is known for its unique and creative breakfast and brunch dishes, as well as its extensive selection of craft beers. The restaurant has a fun and lively atmosphere, and its menu features a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. https://thefriendlytoast.com/ Another popular restaurant in Massachusetts is The Red Lentil in Watertown. This vegan restaurant is known for its delicious and healthy dishes, as well as its cozy atmosphere. The menu features a variety of vegan and gluten-free options, as well as a selection of craft beers and wines. https://www.theredlentil.com/ Finally, The Bancroft in Burlington is a popular restaurant in Massachusetts. This restaurant is known for its modern American cuisine, as well as its extensive selection of craft beers and wines. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and its menu features a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. https://www.thebancroftburlington.com/," remarked one expat living in Massachusetts.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Massachusetts?
"People living in Massachusetts typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, convenience stores, farmers markets, and specialty stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items," remarked one expat living in Massachusetts.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Massachusetts?
"To visit or live in Massachusetts, you usually need to gain a visa from the U.S. Government. Generally, visitors require a B-1/B-2 visa for short term trips, or an F-1 student visa if the stay is longer. Those wishing to take up permanent residence require an immigrant visa. To apply for the visa, an individual must first complete Form DS-160, the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application at the Department of State's website. The visa applicant must then schedule an interview at the closest United States Embassy or Consulate. After the interview, the applicant must pay a fee and wait for their visa to be issued. To apply for residency in Massachusetts, individuals must establish legal status in the United States, such as with a permanent resident card, family- or employment-based visa, or U.S. citizenship. After completing the legal status process, the individual must acquire a Massachusetts Driver's License or Identification Card in order to register to vote, make any other changes of address, and complete other required governmental registrations. Additionally, the individual must register with the state's health insurance exchange and may also need to inform other state agencies like the Massachusetts Department of Revenue," remarked one expat living in Massachusetts.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Massachusetts?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Massachusetts can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Massachusetts is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Massachusetts has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," commented one expat who moved to Massachusetts.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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