Net Income
#11
of 124 cities
$117,147/yr
Current value
MA, United States
Community Insights
NewBoston offers a sophisticated, high-paying alternative to Silicon Valley for software engineers, particularly those in specialized fields like biotech and robotics. While the median SWE salary of $162,500 is competitive, the cost of living (#120/124) eats significantly into that purchasing power, and the housing market is notoriously brutal with its upfront broker fees.
The city excels in intellectual capital, safety, and walkability, but suffers from a crumbling public transit system and a "sleepy" nightlife that frustrates younger transplants. Residents generally feel the career stability and quality of life (schools, safety, history) outweigh the costs, provided you can handle the harsh winters and the initial sticker shock of renting.
Rankings
Net Income
#11
of 124 cities
$117,147/yr
Current value
Pollution Score
#24
of 124 cities
32.5/100
Current value (lower is better)
Community Events
#34
of 124 cities
14 events on luma
Current value
Moving here is culturally easy for English speakers but logistically difficult. As a US city, visa paths (H1B, O1) are complex and lottery-based for non-citizens. Socially, the "Boston Freeze" can make integration slow. However, the city is accustomed to international researchers and students, meaning workplace diversity is high.
Engineers in Biotech, Robotics, or AI who value career stability over startup hype, and families who prioritize education and safety. It is less ideal for junior developers (high barrier to entry), night owls, or anyone looking for a low-cost entry into the US tech market.
Updated 1/20/2026
Boston has 14 Luma events listed.
Purchasing Power
#35
of 124 cities
Comfortable Weather
#42
of 124 cities
52/100 weather score
Current value
Home Affordability
#46
of 124 cities
≈6.7 yrs to buy 80m²
Current value
Safety Index
#53
of 124 cities
59.7/100
Current value
Tax Rate
#59
of 124 cities
31%
Current value (lower is better)
Cost of Living
#120
of 124 cities
82/100
Current value (lower is better)