In this guide, we’ll explore where you should go to college in Boston, breaking down the city’s unique campuses, student life, and what makes Boston one of the best places in the U.S. to study.
Welcome to Boston—one of the most iconic, student-filled cities in the United States. It is a city that shapes your whole college experience. You’ll feel the history in places like the Freedom Trail, but you’ll also see the future being built in its labs, startups, and research centers. One day you might be tucked away in a centuries-old library, and the next you’re at Fenway Park cheering with the crowd.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Where should I go to college in Boston?” Let’s break it down together.
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Why Choose Boston for College?
Instead of just asking, “Where should I go to college in Boston?” it’s worth starting with a bigger question: “Why choose Boston in the first place?”
Let’s explore Boston college student life:
1. Excellent Career Connections
Boston isn’t just a place to study. It’s a launchpad for your future. The city is home to global companies like Bain Capital, Converse, Boston Scientific, Fidelity, and State Street. Industries such as healthcare, finance, tech, and consulting thrive here, giving students plenty of internship and job opportunities. Networking during school can put you a step ahead when it’s time to start your career.
2. Inspiring Academic Atmosphere
With more than 44 colleges and universities and over 250,000 students, Boston is often called the “Athens of America.” From Harvard and MIT to public libraries and historic institutions, the city has always been a hub for big ideas and bold thinkers. Whether you’re into science, art, politics, or entrepreneurship, you’ll find programs and peers to challenge and inspire you.
3. A City Built for Students
Boston combines the energy of a big city with the accessibility of a smaller one. You can walk through downtown, hop on the subway (the “T”), or explore quirky neighborhoods by bus or bike. The city buzzes with restaurants, music, and sports.
It’s also home to legendary teams like the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, and Bruins. Students even snag $9 tickets to Red Sox games at Fenway Park, making it easy to join in the local traditions.
4. Culture at Your Fingertips
If arts and culture are your thing, Boston won’t disappoint. Broadway shows, live music, stand-up comedy, and museums are everywhere. Students often get discounted entry, such as special pricing at the Museum of Fine Arts or college passes to the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Even on a budget, you can soak in world-class culture.
5. A Great Base for Exploration
Boston’s location makes it easy to travel. Logan International Airport connects you to major U.S. cities and international destinations. On weekends, you can hit the beaches of Cape Cod, ski in Vermont, or hop a bus to New York. It’s the perfect balance, rooted in a historic city while never being far from your next adventure.
Types of Colleges You’ll Find in Boston
One of the first things you’ll notice is that Boston doesn’t have just one “type” of college. It has everything!
1. Large Research Universities
Think Boston University (BU), Northeastern, Harvard, and MIT. These are schools with sprawling campuses, massive libraries, and labs buzzing with discoveries. If you’re dreaming about cutting-edge research, endless majors, and global name recognition, a big research university might be your fit.
2. Liberal Arts Colleges
Then you’ve got smaller schools like Emerson College (known for communication and the arts) or Wellesley College (a top women’s liberal arts school just outside Boston). These places often offer smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a focus on critical thinking and well-rounded learning.
3. Community Colleges and Technical Schools
If you’re looking for flexible and affordable colleges in Boston, Bunker Hill Community College or Roxbury Community College can give you a solid start. They often have transfer pathways into bigger universities, too.
4. Affordable and Value-Focused Schools
Boston may be known for pricey tuition, but schools like UMass Boston or Framingham State (nearby) give you a high-quality education without the financial strain.
So whether you’re dreaming of a lecture hall that feels like a mini city, or a small seminar room where everyone knows your name, Boston has an option.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Boston College
Okay, so you know Boston has options, but which one is right for you? Let’s talk about factors you have to consider when choosing one of the best colleges in Boston:
Location & Neighborhood
Boston is a city of neighborhoods, and each has its own vibe. Do you want to be in the heart of the action or somewhere quieter?
- Downtown & Fenway/Kenmore: Perfect if you want to be close to cultural hotspots, restaurants, and campus life. Great for students who love walking everywhere and soaking up city energy.
- Cambridge: Academic and historic, home to Harvard and MIT. Expect a mix of student energy, coffee shops, and intellectual buzz.
- Allston/Brighton: Affordable and lively, with lots of student housing and nightlife options.
- Back Bay & South End: Upscale neighborhoods with beautiful streets and shopping, but higher rent.
Do you want skyscrapers outside your dorm window, or do you prefer a quieter, leafy campus?
Campus Culture & Student Life
Boston schools each have their own personality. Northeastern has co-op students bouncing in and out of jobs every semester. Berklee is filled with music pouring out of practice rooms. Harvard and MIT have their own intense, competitive vibes. Visit (or at least do a virtual tour) and see if the energy feels like “you.”
Academic Offerings
Boston’s schools run the gamut: engineering at MIT, law and policy at Suffolk, art and design at MassArt, nursing at Simmons, business at BU, and liberal arts at Wellesley.
Ask yourself: Does the school offer not just your major, but backup options if you change your mind?
Value of a Boston Education
Boston schools can be expensive. But the value of Boston colleges isn’t just about sticker price. It’s about what you get in return: strong alumni networks, co-ops, internships, and long-term job prospects. Many grads say the connections they built in Boston paid off long after graduation.
How to Pay for College in Boston
Boston isn’t cheap, but there are ways how to pay for college in Boston without burying yourself in student debt.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Most Boston schools offer generous aid packages, especially private ones with big endowments like Harvard or MIT. Don’t be scared off by the sticker price until you see what aid looks like.
Work-Study and Co-Op Programs
Northeastern’s co-op program is legendary. You alternate between classes and full-time paid jobs, often earning enough to cover living expenses. Other schools have smaller co-op or internship systems, too.
Cost of Living Considerations
The cost of living in Boston for students is higher than the national average. Rent is steep, and groceries aren’t cheap. But with student discounts on the T (subway), free museum days, and a million coffee shops with student deals, you can make it work.
Best Value Colleges in Boston
We’re not here to rank schools, but we do want to highlight a few that often get praised for value:
UMass Boston – Public, Affordable, City-Connected
- In-State Tuition: $15,814/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $38,620/year
- Average Net Price: ~$25,964/year (living with parents)
- ROI: Strong local job market ties enhance post-graduation employment opportunities.
Bonus: UMass Boston offers free tuition for families earning $75,000 or less, starting Fall 2025.
Northeastern University – High Cost, High Reward
- Tuition: $64,990/year
- Average Net Price: $34,770/year
- ROI: Renowned for its co-op program, providing paid work experience that can offset tuition costs and boost employability.
Boston College (BC) – Private with Strong Alumni Network
- Tuition: $36,090/year
- Average Net Price: $32,590/year
- ROI: Strong alumni network and financial aid offerings contribute to a solid return on investment.
Bunker Hill Community College – Most Affordable Option
- Tuition: $4,379 (Fall 2025)
- Average Net Price: $7,669/year
- ROI: Offers a cost-effective pathway to a bachelor’s degree through transfer programs.
Simmons University – Specialized Programs with Financial Aid
- Tuition (Non-nursing): $500/credit
- Average Net Price: $29,575/year
- ROI: Strong programs in nursing and health sciences, with significant financial aid available.
So, back to the question “where should I go to college in Boston?” Each of these schools shines in its own way, depending on what “value” means to you.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities in Boston
Beyond what schools offer, you can tap into local grants and scholarships for Boston colleges.
- The Boston Foundation often has local scholarships.
- The City of Boston Scholarship Program supports residents attending local schools.
- Many organizations tied to industries (like healthcare or education) fund Boston students directly.
Tip: Look for scholarships connected to your neighborhood, heritage, or intended career. You’ll find plenty of targeted financial aid for Boston colleges.
Tips for Moving to Boston as a College Student
Moving to Boston for college is exciting. But as you get ready for this next chapter, it’s important to have the right information to make your move smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable.
Housing Options
- On-campus: Convenient, safe, but sometimes pricey.
- Off-campus: Tons of shared apartments around Allston, Brighton, and Somerville—cheaper, but you’ll be learning how to deal with landlords and roommates fast.
Knowing Your Neighborhood
Boston is full of unique neighborhoods:
- Allston/Brighton: Affordable housing and lively nightlife.
- Fenway/Kenmore: Close to colleges and cultural spots.
- Cambridge: Academic hub with Harvard and MIT.
- Back Bay: Upscale area with beautiful architecture and shopping.
Budgeting for Daily Life
- Rent: Typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on location and whether you’re sharing accommodations.
- Transportation: A CharlieCard offers unlimited travel for $30/month, providing access to the subway, bus, and commuter rail.
- Food: Students generally spend between $400 and $450/month on groceries and dining.
- Books & Supplies: The average annual expenditure is approximately $1,200, equating to about $100/month.
Getting Around
- Public Transportation: The “T” is convenient—learn routes and schedules. Get a CharlieCard for student-discounted T rides.
- Walking & Biking: Boston is walkable and bike-friendly; invest in a good bike and lock.
Exploring Boston
- History: Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, Boston Public Library
- Food: Quincy Market, North End (Italian), Chinatown
- Outdoors: Charles River Esplanade, Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum
Making the Most of College Life
- Academics: Connect with professors, join study groups, and use campus resources.
- Social Life: Join clubs, attend campus events, and explore the city.
- Balance: Schedule your time, stay active, and practice self-care.
Affordable Moving Tips for Students
Moving can get expensive, especially for college students. Here’s how to save:
- Compare Quotes: Get multiple quotes from Boston movers before deciding.
- Off-Peak Moves: Midweek or mid-month moves are often cheaper than weekends or month-ends.
- Flexible Dates: Ask if movers offer discounts for certain days.
- Student Discounts: Some movers offer special rates for college students.
- Pack Yourself: Packing your own items can reduce mover hours and costs.
- Partial Services: Consider movers who only handle loading and transport while you pack/unpack.
- Check Reviews: Look for trustworthy movers with good online feedback.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Fit for Your Future in Boston
So, where should you go to college in Boston? The answer isn’t a single name. It’s about matching your goals, budget, lifestyle, and fit with the right school.
Boston gives you options at every level: big universities, intimate liberal arts colleges, community schools, and affordable public campuses. It gives you history, culture, job opportunities, and an entire student ecosystem to grow within.
The best advice I can leave you with? Explore the city, talk to current students, and think not just about the next four years, but about the life you want to build. Because in Boston, college isn’t just about classes. It’s about becoming part of a city that has shaped thinkers, dreamers, and leaders for centuries.