[Aquinasfan]

They would need the benefits, because Boston is very expensive, if you want anything bigger than a closet in a reasonably safe area. I'm sure, like in any big city, they have expensive housing costs and/or a long commute. Still not a bad salary.

I live 25 miles from Boston and a small ranch costs $300,000. On $45k, this guy could barely afford a 1-bedroom condo.

[fortunecookie]

My sister & her fiance live 20 miles out and with 2 incomes have a one bedroom, but are still saving for the home. They have 30 and 60 minute avg commutes, each way. Her friend comes from a wealthy family and my sis showed me her 'starter' home - a 2-3 bdr (one converted from a den) cape cod about 15-20 miles out on a postage stamp yard with almost no front footage in a lovely town for $450K, apparently a steal. I love the area (not the politics) but wow!