Boston Ranked 3rd Best City for Singles in U.S.

High rents keep hearts and wallets in a balancing act, but city's large population and walkability offer dating opportunities.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:07pm

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According to a recent study by ConsumerAffairs.com, Boston, Massachusetts has been named the 3rd best city in the U.S. for singles to find love. The city's large population of over 673,000 people, with more than half being single, as well as its walkable layout, contributed to the high ranking. However, Boston's high cost of living, with a median rent of $2,044 for a one-bedroom apartment, was noted as a challenge for singles.

Why it matters

Boston's ranking as a top city for singles highlights the city's appeal for those looking to find a partner, but the high cost of living in the city may make it difficult for some to balance dating expenses with other financial obligations.

The details

The study evaluated factors such as dating opportunities, cost of living, quality of life, and dating interest to determine the best cities for singles. Boston's large population and walkable layout gave it an advantage, though its high median rent of $2,044 for a one-bedroom apartment, which is $700 more than the national average, was cited as a drawback.

  • The study was published on January 28, 2026.

The players

ConsumerAffairs.com

A consumer research and advocacy organization that conducted the study on the best cities for singles in the U.S.

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The takeaway

While Boston's large population and walkable layout make it an appealing destination for singles, the high cost of living in the city, particularly the median rent of $2,044 for a one-bedroom apartment, may present a challenge for some when it comes to balancing dating expenses with other financial obligations.