Thought I'd ask this ? here too..Boston vs. Philly? (apartment, how much)

[NJT]

Hello,
I am in the process of deciding where to relocate for my career. I was looking at apartment prices and didn't notice that drastic of a change from philly to boston. However, I know everyone talks about how high the cost of living is in Boston, which I am sure is true. My questions are:

1. Are apt. prices that different? Am I completely off base on that? I mean, I found some cheap places in philly but not exactly in areas I would want to live..I also have a car, if that makes a difference.
2. If negotiating salary, any thoughts on how much more Boston should offer considering cost of living?

Thanks all. I know some people here have experience in both areas and so I'd thought I'd ask.

t.

[ChunkyMonkey]

I've only been to Philly for visits, but I can say that Boston is generally more expensive than Philly. With that said, it really depends on where you stay in Boston and your lifestyle. If you prefer urban student areas, you can probably get pretty good deals in the Allston, Brighton area. If you prefer urban with lots of immigrants in the mix, East Boston is also considered affordable. It's important that you come and visit the neighborhoods to determine what you get for the money. Boston is generally thought of as safer than Philly, though Philly's Center city is quite safe, it is also quite expensive. Depending on what you do for a living, I would ask for a premium, but most employers will probably be willing to pay you more anyway to live in Boston.

[NJT]

Thanks for the response...I've decided to go to Philly for other reasons as well. Thanks! t.