Affordable living in Boston

Whether you just moved to Boston or you’ve lived there for years, there are always hidden gems around a city that can easily be overlooked. From shopping to wining and dining, here are few ways you can save a buck in the Boston area:

Cheap eats

• El Pelon Taqueria: If you’re craving Mexican but don’t want to pay mucho dinero, this is the place to go. Over half the menu is under $5—it doesn’t get much better than that.
• The Paramount: You’d be hard-pressed to find a yummier Sunday brunch in Boston for cheaper than this. Perfect for students and bargain hunters looking for quality food at low prices, The Paramount restaurant is located in the heart of Beacon Hill.
• Silverstone Bar & Grill: There’s something for everyone at this retro-themed hotspot. Both your stomach and your wallet will be full after you leave, with affordable and delicious comfort food options as well as an array of specialty cocktails.

Hoppin’ happy hours

• Grendel’s Den: Draught beers are $3 all day and during happy hour, the whole menu is half-off with a drink purchase.
• Sissy K’s: This happy hour can’t be beat. Bud on tap for a buck and a free buffet. Could you really ask for more?
• Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery: The name says it all—this place has some serious deals. All fresh brews are under $3 all day long, and for happy hour, you can get a burger and fries for less than a Lincoln.
• Jacob Wirth Restaurant: Get pitchers of PBR for just six bucks all day, and half-priced appetizers like nachos and chicken fingers for happy hour.

Shop till you drop

• Wrentham Village Premium Outlets: With over 170 stores, you’re bound to find something that suits your fancy at a discounted price. It’s less than an hour from Boston, so it’s the perfect excuse for a day trip.
• Second Time Around: Wish you could score designer labels for less cash than they charge in department stores? Your wish has been granted with this high-end consignment store that sells (and buys) both new and gently used clothing for less.
• The Closet Inc.: Did somebody say Prada? Armani? Chanel? You can find all of that and more at this trendy boutique selling lightly worn designer threads.

Affordable housing

Boston can be a pricey city to live in. In fact, there are many reports that cite Boston as the most expensive city in America. That being said, you can find a place to shack up that won’t rob you of your entire paycheck—and then some. Here are few tips on how to find the cheapest rent possible when searching for Boston apartments:

• Stay out of the city. First and foremost, if you’re on a budget, look outside of the city for a place to live. Keep an eye out for student housing advertisements as the rent tends to be cheaper in those complexes.
• Location, location, location. A low cost of living takes a lot of variables into account rather than just rent and utilities. For example, you could find a cheap apartment an hour outside of Boston, but if you have to commute a long way to work, you’re probably spending a lot of extra cash on gas.
• Be ready to compromise. Some cities and suburbs have more available jobs than others, which can be a factor in housing costs. Waltham, MA, for example, has great accessibility to jobs, but the main reason for this city’s low rent is its less-than-awesome school system.