[Thinking about moving to Boston?]

I'm not sure what you already know about these cities, granted they are cheaper, but they are not especially nice. Everett fairly urban, but fairly run down. Both Lynn and Everett have fairly big gang problems right now, but Lynn also has a lot of renewal and renovation happening in its downtown, especially by the commuter rail station. Lynn also has a decent waterfront.

[Thinking about moving to Boston?]

Depending on your budget and space requirements, Brighton by Cleveland Circle is a beautiful part of Boston close to the green B, C, and D lines (the C and D are the fastest when commuting to Boston, assuming that is where your job is located. Where will you be working?). I lived there and loved it, though rents have surly increased since I was there. Still, it's worth a look. Drawbacks would be it's high numbers of college students (it's close to BC), and it being on the edge of city proper. Still, there is virtually no crime (one of the safest parts of Boston), and if you eventually do bring a car, there is abundant on-street parking and permits are free (as they are throughout Boston). For a nice one-bedroom I would expect to pay anywhere from $1,400 - $2,000/month. I lived in a very nice 2 bedroom for $1,400/month a couple years ago.. just have to search search search!

Where will your job be?