Welcome to Massachusetts, the state that’s home to baked beans, the Red Sox, and an unmistakable accent that you’ll start adopting whether you like it or not. Whether you’re navigating the historic streets of Boston or soaking in the charm of the Cape, Massachusetts has a personality all its own. Here are eight things no one tells you about living in Massachusetts, but you’ll quickly learn once you settle in.
Table of Contents
You’ll Need to Learn the “Boston Accent” (Whether You Like It or Not)
The famous Boston accent isn’t just a stereotype—it’s a way of life. Whether you’re saying “park the car in Harvard Yard” or discussing how the Pahk the cah rivalry is shaping up, you’ll eventually find yourself slipping into this distinctive dialect. Before you know it, you’ll be saying “wicked” for everything from food to weather, and “pissa” will be part of your everyday vocabulary. Just embrace it.
You’ll Learn the Art of Driving in Chaos
Massachusetts drivers are a breed of their own—aggressive yet efficient, and somehow they make it all work. The art of weaving in and out of traffic on the Mass Pike, getting honked at when you hesitate at a light, and mastering the rotary (roundabout, for non-locals) will become second nature. Don’t worry if it feels like a contact sport at first—soon enough, you’ll be navigating like a pro, throwing in a “sorry” every time someone cuts you off.
The Red Sox Will Become Your Religion
If you’re living in Massachusetts, you’ll soon discover that the Red Sox are more than just a baseball team—they’re a way of life. Fenway Park isn’t just a ballpark; it’s practically a temple, and game days are a state holiday. Even if you’re not a huge fan of baseball, you’ll find yourself drawn into the rivalry, the chants, and the “Yankees suck” spirit, because, in Massachusetts, it’s all about the Sox.
Clam Chowder Is a Serious Business (and So Is the Debate Over Which Version Is Best)…