Relocating to another city is both exciting and overwhelming. If want to relocate and decide on NYC to Boston movers, you are certainly in for a big change.
This guide covers everything you need to know to make your move as smooth as possible. From comparing life in the two cities to tips on packing and settling in. So without further ado, here’s everything you need to know.
Living in NYC vs. Boston
First comes the thought of how different these two cities are. New York City is fast-paced, a 24/7 hustle and bustle type of place, while Boston has a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. While it’s still undoubtedly a busy city, Boston doesn’t have that same feel of a constant rush as NYC does.
Another major determining factor is the cost of living. Boston can get expensive, but it’s still a bit more affordable compared to New York. In Boston, you will probably get more space for your money. You can also expect to save a bit on groceries, utilities, and transportation. However, Boston isn’t exactly a bargain, so while you might cut a few corners, expecting a dramatic drop in expenses is probably not realistic.
Public transportation is different, too. NYC’s subway system is huge and runs all night, whereas Boston’s infrastructure is smaller and closes earlier. The good news? Boston is a much more walkable city, and biking is also a popular option for getting around.
So you’ve weighed all the pros and cons and decided to move. How to prepare for this huge shift? Here are a few suggestions to ease the stress.
Plan Your Move
Moving from NYC to Boston can be much less stressful if you have a plan in place. First, take into account the time of the year when moving—some are more busy than others, and there’s the weather itself to account for. Boston winters can be brutal, so if possible avoid moving during this season. Spring and fall offer milder weather.
Once you have a timeline in mind, plan out the details. Try to book a moving company like professionals at Paradise Move at least two months in advance if possible, especially if it’s peak moving season. If you have a flexible schedule, consider mid-month and mid-week moves, as they may save you money.
Create a checklist. Mark down important moving tasks, such as mail forwarding, utility cancellation in NYC, and utility setup in Boston. Keeping yourself organized will give you more control over the process.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
The important step in making the NYC-Boston relocation easy is hiring a good moving company like Paradise Move, for example. Do preliminary research into long-distance movers, consider their prices, and read their reviews. You can also ask for referrals among friends or check online for highly-rated movers.
Get estimates from companies to get a sense of the price range. Avoid companies that ask for large upfront deposits or refuse to give a written estimate. It’s also a good idea to decide whether to use full-service movers, who handle everything from packing to transport or self-service options where you pack and the movers just transport.
Packing for a Long-Distance Move
Packing for a long-distance move, like moving from New York to Boston, can be really overwhelming. You can make it a bit easier for yourself, though. One of the best ways you might simplify packing, for example, is by downsizing and decluttering.
Take the time to go through your belongings. Decide what you really need and what you want to bring with you. This is important, especially in case you are going to move into a smaller space.
When packing, use sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing paper to protect your possessions. Be sure to label each box with its content and the room it belongs to, so that the unpacking process will be easier too.
Calculating Moving Costs
There are a lot of factors that may raise or lower the cost of the move to Boston from New York, including home size, moving distance, and additional services. The long-distance move might cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 on average. Get quotes tailored to your specific situation, so you can plan beforehand for that sum.
Be cautious of the ‘hidden fees’ that can sneak onto you unexpectedly. An example would be if your new apartment in Boston happens to be upstairs and there is no elevator in the building. Or, for example, the parking space is very limited to accommodate the moving truck. This could leave you with an extra fee.
Settling into Boston
Once you finally arrive in your new home, the next big step is settling in. The first to do is to set up utilities: electricity, water, and internet, for example. It’s best to line these up before the move so that it’s ready upon arrival.
The areas of Boston have a really unique vibe, so it is worth spending some time getting familiar with your new neighborhood. Whether historic Beacon Hill, the hip South End, or the suburbs-meet-city in Brookline, Boston has a spot for everyone.
If you drive a car, make sure you sign up for a resident parking permit so you don’t get ticketed. Finally, change your driver’s license and registration with the Massachusetts RMV.
Moving to a new city is a big adjustment, no doubt. But with the right frame of mind, it could also become quite an adventure. The weather in Boston may take some time to get used to, especially if you are more accustomed to the milder winters of New York. Not to mention a million other little details you might need time to get used to. Plan ahead, keep positive, and dive into this adventure head-on!
Final Thoughts
Moving from New York City to Boston is a big step, but with proper planning and preparation, the transition could be smooth and exciting. From selecting the appropriate moving company to settling in the new neighborhood, it’s important to account for the whole journey. So, enjoy the change and get ready to enjoy everything Boston has in store for you!