United States · tool
How much does Boston cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Boston trip before you book anything.
Boston, United States travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a shared room in a budget Airbnb outside the city center.
Street food, casual diners, groceries for packed lunches, and food trucks.
MBTA (subway and bus) day pass or CharlieCard top-ups for unlimited travel.
Free walking tours, exploring public parks, visiting free museum days, or student discounts.
Small souvenirs, coffee, occasional treats.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a private room in a well-located Airbnb.
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and one or two nicer dinners.
Occasional Uber/Lyft rides, combined with MBTA for longer distances.
Entry to major attractions like museums, historical sites, or boat tours.
Coffee, snacks, small souvenirs, and personal items.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Luxury 4-5 star hotel in a prime location or a high-end boutique hotel.
Fine dining experiences, tasting menus, and premium cocktails.
Private car services, airport transfers, and frequent ride-sharing.
Private guided tours, premium event tickets, or exclusive experiences.
High-end shopping, spa treatments, or premium concierge services.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Credit cards are king in Boston; most places accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. Discover may be less common.
- •While ATMs are widespread, using those inside major banks (e.g., Bank of America, Chase) generally incurs fewer fees than standalone machines.
- •Tipping 18-20% at restaurants is standard. Bartenders and hotel staff (bellhops, housekeepers) also expect gratuities.
- •Boston's public transport (MBTA) can be a good value, but individual fares add up quickly; consider a day pass or CharlieCard for frequent use.
- •Be aware that many tourist attractions and restaurants have higher prices than in other US cities due to Boston's popularity and cost of living.