Ten Greater Boston suburbs marketed as 'affordable alternatives' actually cost $50K-$150K more annually than living in Boston, Cambridge, or Somerville when you factor in commute costs, car payments, property taxes, and home maintenance. Quincy ($650K median) requires $18K annual commute costs + $12K property taxes + $15K car payments = $45K hidden costs. Boston ($750K median) requires $0 commute (walk/bike), $6K property taxes, $0 car payments = $6K total. The 'affordable suburb' is a myth—city living is cheaper when you calculate total cost of ownership.
Homebuyers choosing between city and suburbs, families evaluating total ownership costs, anyone considering 'affordable' suburbs, buyers trying to understand hidden costs, people comparing urban vs suburban living.
Use our Total Cost of Ownership calculator to compare city vs suburban living. Factor in commute time, car payments, property taxes, and maintenance—not just mortgage. Understand that 'affordable' suburbs often cost more when you calculate real expenses. Consider city living if you value time, walkability, and lower total costs.
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