Boston is a traditional city known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Boston, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Boston?
You should plan to spend around $291 per day on your vacation in Boston. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $86 on meals
- $37 on local transportation
- $331 on hotels
A one week trip to Boston for two people costs, on average, $4,074. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$2,037
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$4,074
-
One Month
Per person
$8,730
-
One Week
For a couple
$4,074
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$8,148
-
One Month
For a couple
$17,460
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Boston cost?
A one week trip to Boston usually costs around $2,037 for one person and $4,074 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Boston on average costs around $4,074 for one person and $8,148 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Boston will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Boston on average costs around $8,730 for one person and $17,460 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Boston expensive to visit?
Boston is a grand city that offers an exciting lineup of activities. Travelers of all kinds, from budget-conscious to high rollers, come here to make unforgettable memories. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Although Boston can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $116 per day, mid-range travelers spend $291 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $755 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Boston.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Boston is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Jacksonville or Berkshires.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Boston Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Boston?
The average Boston trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Boston travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Boston cost?
Boston on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$62
|
$166
|
$463
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$14
|
$37
|
$106
|
|
Food 2
|
$35
|
$86
|
$194
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$13
|
$33
|
$79
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$6-17
|
$14-41
|
$31-93
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. While some think they can visit Boston with minimal expenses, most people don't enjoy traveling that frugally. Consider what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer luxury hotels or budget stays? Hostels or hotels or vacation rentals? Are fun activities and dining out important to you? Your overall budget will depend on all of these questions.
What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $116 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Boston, like HI Boston, Backpackers Hostel & Pub, and Meco Hostel. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking. Moreover, the city provides great public transportation, which allows budget travelers to save on expensive taxi or Uber fares. While food is a highlight for every visitor in Boston, budget travelers often opt for street food or cook in their hostel, which can prevent them from enjoying the exquisite culinary offerings.
What Makes You an Average Traveler?
Couples and families traveling for leisure often prefer mid-range hotels, dine at popular eateries, and visit key museums and attractions that require an entry fee. It's a common desire for visitors to Boston to experience the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. It's important to remember that most activities will cost you money. Consequently, you should anticipate your daily budget to be closer to $291 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Boston. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. The Lenox is a good kid-friendly option, and The Eliot Suite Hotel is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Boston here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $755 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the city with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as PRIVATE Authentic Revolutionary Boston Walking Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Boston
The price of hotels in Boston can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury and amenities, but with much higher price tags, especially during peak season. Off-season averages are around $233, while peak summer season averages can reach $435. Prices range from $157 to $823, but hostels are usually cheaper. Traveling during the low season and booking early are good ways to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Boston for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $331. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $166 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Boston? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Boston include:
- Sonder No 284 Back Bay starting at $191
- The Lenox starting at $245
- The Eliot Suite Hotel starting at $288
- The Verb Hotel starting at $136
- Loews Boston Hotel starting at $188
Being a large city, Boston has plenty of lodging choices available. From budget-friendly hostels such as HI Boston to vacation rentals and high-end hotels, you have options. Keep in mind that staying in the city center usually means higher rates, but you'll be close to public transit and attractions.
Boston has an excellent public transit system, so it's possible to stay further outside the city and commute in. This may keep your accommodation prices down, but your transportation costs will go up. It can also be inconvenient if you're short on time.
In a family-friendly place like Boston, finding accommodation with more space is key when traveling with children. Since it's a big city, rooms can be on the smaller side and may feel a bit cramped.
If you're spending up to a week in Boston, getting a vacation rental with a kitchen could help you save money by letting you prepare some of your own meals.
If you travel during the low or shoulder season (and avoid summer), you'll find lower accommodation prices and less tourist crowds.
Exploring Boston by foot is a favorite activity for many, so it's wise to find a centrally located place to stay. Just be aware that this may cost more.
The city's historic old town is a major draw for travelers. While hotels in this area can be priced high, they frequently feature a lot of character and are well-placed for easy access to attractions.
Transportation Budget in Boston
Transportation in a big city like Boston is a must, and the good news is that the public transit system is top-notch. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system. For the budget traveler, public transportation is ideal, but taxis and rideshares are also readily available if you're in a hurry.
Anyone who likes to wander around on foot will appreciate their time here. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.
Public Transit: 
(excellent)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Boston. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Boston is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$37
If you intend to use public transit a lot, multi-day passes can significantly reduce your transportation expenses.
Watch for pickpockets on buses, trains, and in stations. Just a reminder that Boston is a major city.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Limo Private Transfer Boston to Logan International Airport for $160 details
- Private Transfer in Boston (BOS) Airport/Home/Hotel/Work for $160 details
- Flynn Cruise Port to Boston Logan Intl Airport (BOS)- Departure Private Transfer for $43 details
How much does it cost to go to Boston? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Boston will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Typical prices for transit in Boston are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Boston. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
-
Taxi
$35
-
Subway Daily Pass
$9.00
Food Budget in Boston
Food in Boston is outstanding, and it's essential to make time to indulge in all the unique local flavors. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Boston can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Boston is $86 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$86
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Boston is around $86 ($86) per person, with previous travelers spending from $35 to $194. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Boston are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $26
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $26 to $60
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Food in Boston is great, but expensive. Some of the cheapest restaurants tend to be bars which offer standard bar fare including burgers and sandwiches. If you want something more interesting, particularly the city's famous seafood, you will definitely have to pay more, but it is well worth it. Seafood specialties include cod, lobster and clam chowder. For ethnic restaurants head to the neighborhoods of Chinatown, Allston, North End and Coolidge Corner. The North End has some of the area's best Italian eateries.
You can save money by enjoying meals at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many eateries in tourist areas or business centers provide lunch specials or a 'menu of the day.' These are frequently just smaller and cheaper versions of their dinner options. Sometimes, if you search in the right places, you can have a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price. For dinner, just keep it light.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Keep a water bottle handy instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also better for the environment.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Boston. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Boston Food Tour: Food and Cultural Tour of Boston's Chinatown for $115 details
- Pizza Beer and Paul Revere Tour for $60 details
- AM Coffee Walks with Salem Food Tours for $34 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Boston
Tourists are naturally attracted to Boston due to its museums and attractions, historical sights, family-friendly activities, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Boston typically cost an average of $33 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
For more ideas for your next trip, check out Free Things to Do in Boston, Must-See Monuments and Memorials In Boston, and The Best Things To Do in Boston with Kids.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$33
There are a large number of museums throughout Boston including the Boston Children's Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Harvard Art Museum, the Harvard Museum of Natural History, the Institute of Contemporary Art, MIT Museum, and the impressive New England Aquarium. Also be sure and head to Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, which are two of Boston's oldest markets. Today they are primarily geared toward tourists. There are also some wonderful walking tours you can take in Boston. Do the Freedom Trail, which will take you by some of Boston's most famous historic sights and landmarks and offer you a basic history lesson.
There is no shortage of festivals in Boston throughout the year. Some of the most famous are the St. Patrick's Day events, the Boston Marathon, Boston Pride, The Feast of St. Anthony, and the Head of the Charles Regatta.
Museums and Attractions:
Boston is famous for its world-class museums and historic sites. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.
Theatre Productions:
You shouldn't miss out on the theater scene. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.
Historical Sights:
The historic old town area brings in many visitors. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Boston. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Beacon Hill: Small Group Tour of Civil War Boston for $35 details
- 1 If By Land Walking Tours for $45 details
- Back Bay: Small Group Tour of Women's Rights Boston for $35 details
A few typical prices for sights, activities, and entry fees in Boston are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers to provide you with an idea how much you might need to spend. Your individual costs will vary based on which activities you do, which attractions or museums you visit, and how often you participate in free or low-cost activities.
Nightlife Budget in Boston
The nightlife in Boston is fun and active, and visitors enjoy spending nights out at the local bars, clubs, and parties. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $27 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Boston per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$27
Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.
Nighttime outings can be fun, but make sure to stay aware of your environment, especially if you've been drinking. Pickpockets or worse could take advantage, so stick to trusted company.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Boston. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Freedom Trail: History Tour & Brewery Taste for $70 details
- Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl for $60 details
- Salem Booze and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl by US Ghost Adventures for $28 details
Travel cost data last updated: Mar 11, 2024
Traveling in Boston
Boston Harbor
Boston is one of the oldest and most historic cities in New England. It is also the capital of the state of Massachusetts and the largest city in the region. The city proper covers 48 square miles and has a population of more than 600,000. The Greater Boston area has 4.5 million people and is the tenth largest metropolitan area in the country.
The city itself is quite beautiful, particularly during the fall months when the leaves on the trees turn to beautiful, bright colors. Spring is also beautiful, after the snow melts and the flowers come into bloom. The city's beauty and rich history make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. It gets an estimated 16.3 million visitors a year.
Boston is also home to many famous colleges including Harvard, MIT, and Tufts University. The large number of universities mean the general population in Boston is actually quite young. As such, this means there are endless activities and events you can attend as a visitor.
Neighborhoods & Around
Boston is a city of neighborhoods. Back Bay is an upscale area popular for shopping. Beacon Hill is famous for its gas-lit street lanterns. Charlestown is home to the Bunker Hill Monument. The Downtown area has the majority of the tourist attractions including Faneuil Hall, the Freedom Trail, Boston Public Garden and Boston Common. North End is the city's Italian neighborhood. It has some excellent restaurants. Chinatown has great Asian restaurants and herbalists. South End has many of the famous Victorian brownstones and South Boston is a residential area with a waterfront. It also has the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Other notable neighborhoods include Dorchester, East Boston, Fenway-Kenmore, the Financial District, Jamaica Plain, Mission Hill, Roxbury.
Related
Check out this
itinerary for 2 days in Boston.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
The history is great here! There are also many great restaurants.