Welcome to Boston, MA: Navigating Disappointments and Living Realities

Living in Boston, Massachusetts, can be a thrilling experience, but it’s not without its challenges. Moving from Cambridge to Boston's diverse neighborhoods, such as the North End, offers a wealth of opportunities, yet a note of disappointment can be felt in the air. While the North End is renowned for its incredible food choices, it’s not a place where I felt at home. Instead, I decided to return to the more familiar faces of Central Square, a neighborhood where I felt more connected to the local community.

Common Disappointments Among Transplants

People who move from other parts of the United States to Boston often bring with them a series of misconceptions and disappointments. Here are some common issues and how they impact the new Bostonian experience.

Taxes and Public Schools

One of the most common complaints among new arrivals is the perceived taxation burden. Many people describe Massachusetts as “Taxachusetts,” but it’s important to note that taxes do not rank as the highest in the nation. This perception often stems from the fact that taxes are rarely hidden behind fees, making them more visible to residents. Additionally, the public schools in the Boston metropolitan area, including those in suburban areas along Routes 95 and 495, as well as in mid-Worcester county and the Connecticut Valley, receive high ratings. This isn’t to say that a parent can't choose to send their children to a preparatory school if they can afford it, but underfunding the public school system is not an acceptable position.

Local Politicians

The local political scene in New England is particularly intertwined with extended family networks. Even when residents disagree politically, it’s impolite to publicly indulge in negativity, especially when related to local politicians. The phrase "Each to their own" is often heard, hinting at a culture of tolerance and acceptance. It’s common to find that even controversial figures might have connections more personal than political, urging a more diplomatic approach.

Entitlement and Political Engagement

New residents from outside New England sometimes feel a sense of entitlement when it comes to local politics. For instance, the town meeting, a cherished institution akin to city ward meetings, is often invoked. However, closed town meetings are generally frowned upon, as it goes against the principle of democracy at the local level. Entitlement issues are heightened in the context of closed meetings, where some individuals feel they should have more say without appropriate community involvement.

Weather Complaints

Another common complaint is the weather. While Boston’s weather can be unpredictable, it’s worth noting that those who stay can often handle it better than newcomers. Residents who have never traveled elsewhere tend to be more forgiving of the weather, whereas those who come from climates with more consistent weather may struggle.

Food and Ethnic Cuisine

One final disappointment often comes from the perceived lack of authentic barbecue, Tex-Mex, or SoCal Mexican restaurants. While Boston can be a melting pot of different cultures, it's essential to look outside the immediate city for these culinary experiences. Southeast Asian cuisines are available in Lowell and Worcester, while Caribbean cuisine can be found in Lawrence and Fitchburg. In Fall River, Brockton, and East Cambridge, you can discover Brazilian, Portuguese, and Cape Verdean dishes. Italian cuisine is available practically anywhere in Massachusetts, and Quebecois cuisine can be found in Springfield and Central Massachusetts.

By understanding and navigating these common challenges, new residents can better integrate into the Boston community and enjoy its many diverse facets.

About the Author

Our contributor has firsthand experience living in both Cambridge and Boston, offering valuable insights into the lived experience and community dynamics of these two vital cities.