Top Boston Office Spaces for Entrepreneurs
Starting a business is challenging, but there are many reasons why entrepreneurs increasingly opt to do so from Boston. The city was even ranked as the sixth most startup-friendly city in the world.
The Massachusetts state capital offers several advantages for new businesses. This includes a remarkable talent pool, a thriving business ecosystem, and strong support for new ventures.
Boston also has a variety of excellent office spaces. Many of these spaces come with flexible terms and a plug-and-play setup. Both of these are ideal for emerging businesses looking to hit the ground running.
In this article, we explore why Boston is such an attractive location for entrepreneurs. We’ll also highlight some of the top office spaces in Boston to kick-start your business.
What makes Boston ideal for entrepreneurs?
From its academic prowess to its supportive startup community, Boston has a lot going for it. Let’s delve into the reasons why this city is a practical choice for those looking to start or grow their business.
1. Rich in talent
One of the main reasons Boston is so popular among entrepreneurs is its access to skilled talent. Boston ranked seventh in CBRE’s 2023 Scoring Tech Talent report.
Massachusetts is known for having a highly educated workforce, with 52% of adults having a college degree. That’s the highest concentration of degree holders in the country.
The caliber of local institutions is also incredibly high. Top universities like Harvard and MIT always ensure a steady flow of brilliant people entering the Boston job market.
The Massachusetts Noncompete Law, which allows employees to switch jobs more easily, also helps keep this talent in the city.
2. Affordability
Though not the cheapest city in the US, Boston is much more affordable than other popular choices for entrepreneurs. While many startups flood to New York or San Francisco, those cities can be much more expensive.
The cost of living in Boston is 48% above the national average, whereas in New York it is 129%. Rent prices in San Francisco are also 13.3% higher than in Boston.
This reduces business overheads, making Boston a more appealing option for early-stage businesses.
3. Robust economy
Boston boasts an especially robust economy, making it an attractive hub for entrepreneurs.
The city features one of the highest employment rates in the US. It’s also home to businesses in diverse industries, enabling companies of all types to find their niche and succeed.
Healthcare, technical services, and finance are among the key sectors driving Boston’s economic growth.
The city’s wealth of higher education institutions also boost household incomes and wages. Indeed, since 1990, Metro Boston’s per capita income has consistently outpaced the national average by more than 25%.
4. Thriving startup culture
Boston is renowned for its vibrant startup culture, being the birthplace of several iconic brands. Notably, Facebook originated in Mark Zuckerberg’s Cambridge dorm room.
Other major companies like ZipCar, Wayfair, and TripAdvisor also call Boston their home. Indeed, between 2020 and 2022, Boston was home to 26 unicorns.
The city is especially welcoming to diverse business founders. In 2023, Mendoza Ventures launched a $100 million fund focused on diverse teams. Visible Hands also introduced a $10.5 million fund for often overlooked founders.
Overall, Boston’s startups are worth a massive $357 billion, making it a powerhouse for new businesses.
5. Venture capital presence
Boston is known for its strong venture capital (VC) scene. Many VC firms are based in the city. These are some of the most active:
- Battery Ventures
- General Catalyst
- Highland Capital Partners
- Spark Capital
From the second half of 2020 to 2022, tech startups in Boston received $75 billion in VC funding, far above the global average of $6.6 billion.
This strong VC presence is beneficial for entrepreneurs, providing lucrative funding opportunities.
6. Supportive entrepreneurial programs
Boston offers a vast range of support for startups. This includes over 50 accelerators and incubators like MassChallenge, Techstars, and TiE ScaleUp.
Networks like the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center and Women Entrepreneurs Boston are also very valuable. They provide targeted advice and networking opportunities to budding businesses.
Harvard Innovation Labs and MIT’s The Engine aim to help students and alumni. They provide connections, guidance, and support for new projects.
This variety of resources gives entrepreneurs in Boston a strong foundation for business growth.
7. Diverse industries
Boston’s economy is diverse, creating a fertile ground for entrepreneurs. It has many strong sectors, including:
- Technology
- Biotech
- Education
- Finance
Companies like Ginkgo are leading the charge in synthetic biology. The city benefits from its close ties to academic powerhouses like MIT, which drive advancements in AI and machine learning. Startups such as Tamr, born from MIT’s Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), are examples of this.
E-commerce is a big player in Boston, too, with companies like Wayfair, Chewy, and CarGurus gaining global recognition.
The city is also making waves in healthcare, 3-D printing, and quantum computing. Firms like Formlabs and MarkForged are fast gaining recognition.
The life sciences sector is also thriving, hosting over 1,100 companies. Some of the top National Institutes of Health-funded hospitals in the US are based here in Boston.
9 flexible office spaces in Boston for entrepreneurs
Boston has a wide variety of office spaces for entrepreneurs. By the third quarter of 2021, Boston had approximately 67 million square feet of office space.
Downtown, Back Bay, and the South Boston Waterfront are among the most popular business districts. Whether you’re looking for long-term or temporary office space in Boston, these areas offer great choices.
Here’s a list of nine office spaces in Boston that are perfect for entrepreneurs.
1. 75 State Street
At the corner of State and Kilby, 75 State Street is an excellent choice for financial startups. In this central spot in Boston’s financial district, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with the best in your industry.
From the moment you step into the grand lobby, your team will be inspired by the dynamic atmosphere in these serviced offices in Boston. They’ll also have access to meeting rooms, breakout areas, a rooftop deck, and an onsite cafe.
Having an office space in downtown Boston not only gives your business a prestigious address but also places you in the city.
Surrounded by bus stops and subway connections, it’s easy to commute to and has many options for relaxing after work.
Highlights include:
- Break-out areas
- Meeting rooms
- Parking
Information about 75 State Street:
- Location: 75 State Street, Boston, MA, 02109
- Starting cost: From $365 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: State Station (a two-minute walk away), Government Center Station (a three-minute walk away), and Aquarium Station (a five-minute walk away)
2. 101 Arch Street
101 Arch Street is located in the financial district, housed in a 21-story building in Downtown Crossing.
The office space is well-lit and roomy and comes with modern amenities like a video conferencing studio. It also features a striking lobby, a variety of meeting rooms, and coworking spaces.
Its proximity to I-93 and I-90 makes it perfect for businesses aiming to be at the center of Boston’s business activity. And with Regus’ flexible terms, it’s also a great option for a short-term office rental in Boston.
Highlights include:
- Business lounge
- Meeting rooms
- Parking
Information about 101 Arch Street:
- Location: 101 Arch Street, Boston, MA, 02110
- Starting cost: From $295 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Downtown Crossing (a three-minute walk away), Chinatown Station (a six-minute walk away), and Park Street (a six-minute walk away)
3. 101 Federal Street
If you’re looking for Downtown Boston office space for rent, check out 101 Federal Street.
This workspace combines convenience with style. As such, it’s a smart choice for entrepreneurs seeking a prestigious private office space in Boston’s finance hub.
Located in a 31-story skyscraper, 101 Federal Street has floor-to-ceiling windows and fantastic views across the city.
The building’s striking design is sure to make a lasting impression on both employees and visitors. And with onsite coffee and lunch bars, your team will stay energized and focused throughout the day.
Secure underground parking is also available, along with excellent transport links. This makes it highly accessible to team members and clients.
Highlights include:
- Onsite lunch restaurant
- Onsite sandwich/coffee bar
- Secure underground parking
Information about 101 Federal Street:
- Location: 101 Federal Street, Boston, MA, 02110
- Starting cost: From $249 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: South Station (a four-minute walk away), State Station (a six-minute walk away), and Downtown Crossing (a seven-minute walk away)
4. Symphony
For those seeking an iconic office space in Back Bay, Boston, Symphony is a great choice.
Back Bay stands out not only for its architectural appeal but also as a bustling hub for various industries. For example, LEGO chose to relocate their Americas head office to this area.
The workspace provides bright, open areas. It’s also furnished with ergonomic furniture designed for both productivity and comfort.
Located in the heart of the city, it’s conveniently close to some of Boston’s best dining options and patio cafés.
Beyond the office, you’re also ideally situated to enjoy some of the city’s finest dining and patio cafés.
Highlights include:
- Break-out areas
- City center location
- Meeting rooms
Information about Symphony:
- Location: 177 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115
- Starting cost: From $595 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Prudential Light Rail Station (a two-minute walk away), Symphony Light Rail Station (a five-minute walk away), and Massachusetts Ave Station (an eight-minute walk away)
5. 75 Arlington Street
Also located in the Back Bay area, 75 Arlington Street combines classic architecture with modern office amenities.
This workspace boasts light-filled interiors, a coffee bar, and a business lounge. The high-quality video conferencing capabilities will make running professional meetings a breeze.
For a break or an informal meeting, the neighborhood is dotted with independent cafes. The nearby Boston Public Garden offers an ideal spot for a rejuvenating stroll.
Highlights include:
- Business lounge
- Onsite sandwich/coffee bar
- Secure underground parking
Information about 75 Arlington Street:
- Location: 75 Arlington Street, Suite 500, Boston, MA, 02116
- Starting cost: From $465 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Arlington Light Rail Station (a two-minute walk away), Back Bay Station (an 11-minute walk away), and Chinatown Station (an 11-minute walk away)
6. 361 Newbury Street
Nestled in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay, 361 Newbury Street merges professional office space with the vibrant local scene. It’s surrounded by boutiques, art galleries, and nightlife, offering a lively setting for businesses to thrive.
The space itself provides versatile options for all types of work tasks. Whether it’s a hot desk, meeting room, or private office, this location can handle your business needs.
Accessibility is also straightforward. This office can be reached by car via I-90 or by light rail. It’s the ideal spot for businesses who want to join Boston’s vibrant community while keeping things professional.
Highlights include:
- Break-out areas
- Meeting rooms
- Parking
Information about 361 Newbury Street:
- Location: 4th and 5th Floor, Boston, MA, 02115
- Starting cost: From $515 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Hynes Convention Center Light Rail Station (a one-minute walk away), Kenmore Station (a ten-minute walk away), and Copley Tram Stop (a 13-minute walk away)
7. One Marina Park Drive
Located in the Seaport District, One Marina Park Drive is at the heart of an area known for its growth in technology and innovation. This makes it a fitting choice for startups and tech businesses seeking a vibrant setting.
The office has large windows that let in plenty of natural light and offers amenities like breakout areas and an outdoor coffee bar. There’s also an onsite gym, which helps support employee well-being and productivity.
Easy access by car, train, or ferry, along with underground parking, makes commuting hassle-free for everyone.
Highlights include:
- Gym and fitness room
- Onsite sandwich/coffee bar
- Secure underground parking
Information about One Marina Park Drive:
- Location: One Marina Park Drive, Boston, MA, 02210
- Starting cost: From $345 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Seaport/Fan Pier Ferry Terminal (a three-minute walk away), Seaport Blvd @ Pier 4 Blvd Bus Stop (a six-minute walk away), and South Station (a 14-minute walk away)
8. 90 Canal Street
For Boston office space located in the North Station neighborhood, 90 Canal Street is a great option. It’s situated in one of the city’s fastest-growing business areas.
Features include a top-notch video conferencing studio and a gym and fitness room for wellness breaks. There’s also a business lounge for casual meetings or work sessions.
The historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace, famous for having the largest and oldest food hall in the country, is just a short walk away.
The office’s proximity to Haymarket station and available parking options ensure easy access for all commuters.
Highlights include:
- Business lounge
- Gym and fitness room
- Parking
Information about 90 Canal Street:
- Location: 90 Canal Street, Boston, MA, 02114
- Starting cost: From $279 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Haymarket Station (a four-minute walk away), North Station (a six-minute walk away), and Bowdoin Subway (an eight-minute walk away)
9. 100 Cambridge Street
100 Cambridge Street, formerly the Leverett Saltonstall Building, is a notable high-rise in the government district.
Its location is perfect for those in policy, given its proximity to City Hall, courthouses, and the Massachusetts State House.
The building welcomes visitors with a striking glass entrance. It offers breakout areas for casual conversations, a business lounge for relaxed work, and private meeting rooms. For a breath of fresh air, there’s also an outdoor seating area and terrace.
This Boston office space is just steps away from the Charles River Plaza shopping center. As such, you’ll have easy access to plenty of shopping and dining options.
Highlights include:
- Business lounge
- Meeting rooms
- Outside seating area/terrace
Information about 100 Cambridge Street:
- Location: 100 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, 02114
- Starting cost: From $335 per month
- Opening hours: 24/7 for Private Office and Dedicated Desk members, reception hours for other members
- Nearby transport links: Bowdoin Subway (a two-minute walk away), Government Center Station (a three-minute walk away), and Haymarket Station (a six-minute walk away)
Explore offices to rent in Boston with Regus
Choosing office space in Boston is a smart move for entrepreneurs. With its skilled workforce and nurturing environment for startups, the city offers the perfect setting for expanding businesses.
No matter where you are in your journey, Regus provides a range of office solutions to suit you. Whether you’re looking for big or small office space in Boston, we’ll help you secure a professional workspace that fosters the growth of your business.
Find your perfect office space in Boston today.