Quick Answer
The best and cheapest way for most travelers to get from Logan Airport to Boston College is by combining the MBTA Silver Line (SL1) bus and the Green Line (B Branch). The total cost is just $2.40 with a CharlieCard ($4.80 cash) and takes about 60-80 minutes, including transfers. For direct, door-to-door service, a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft) costs $35-$55 and takes 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
The Silver Line & Green Line Combo: Best Value Route
This public transit route is highly recommended by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) for its cost-effectiveness and seamless, fare-free connection from the airport terminals.
Why it's the top choice: It’s incredibly budget-friendly, operates frequently, and the Silver Line portion is designed specifically for airport access with ample luggage space.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Find the Silver Line SL1: Follow signs for "Ground Transportation" and "MBTA Silver Line" in any terminal. Free shuttle buses (Massport Shuttles 22, 33, 55, 66) also connect all terminals to the Airport Station if needed.
- Ride the Silver Line SL1 (Bus): Board the SL1 bus bound for "South Station." This is a fare-free ride from the airport. The trip takes about 15-20 minutes.
- Transfer at South Station: Get off at the final stop, South Station. Go upstairs to the Red Line subway platform.
- Take the Red Line (Subway): Take any Red Line train (in the direction of "Alewife") for just one stop to Park Street Station (approx. 5 mins).
- Transfer to the Green Line B Branch: At Park Street, follow signs for the Green Line (B, C, D, E). Take any “B” Branch train (marked “Boston College”).
- Ride to Boston College: Stay on the Green Line B train for about 25-30 minutes. The final stop is "Boston College," located at the foot of the campus on Commonwealth Avenue.
Key Details & Pro Tips
- Fare: The Silver Line from the airport is free. You pay only when you tap onto the Red Line at South Station. A single fare is $2.40 with a reusable CharlieCard or $4.80 if paying cash at a vending machine for a paper ticket. Consider a 7-Day Pass ($22.50) if you'll use transit extensively.
- Total Time: Allow 60-80 minutes total, depending on wait times for trains (5-10 mins during peak hours, up to 15-20 mins late at night).
- Luggage: Very feasible. Silver Line buses are low-floor with dedicated luggage areas. Green Line trains are street-level trolleys; avoid the very front car during rush hour.
- Operating Hours: The Silver Line SL1 runs from approximately 5:30 AM to 12:30 AM daily. The Green Line B runs from about 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM. Check late-night schedules if arriving on a red-eye flight.
Shared Shuttles & Private Car Services
This category bridges the gap between public transit and taxis, offering pre-booked, shared, or private rides.
Shared Ride Vans (e.g., Go Express, Logan Express* to Framingham)
*Note: There is no direct Logan Express to BC. The closest is Framingham, requiring a further 25-mile Uber/taxi ride, making it impractical for this specific trip.
- How it Works: Companies like Go Express offer shared van service to various Boston neighborhoods. You book online, and the van makes multiple stops.
- Cost: ~$22-$35 per person to the Brighton/Allston area.
- Best For: Travelers who want a guaranteed, pre-paid ride but don't mind a slightly longer trip due to other drop-offs.
Private Car & Limousine Services
For a premium, stress-free arrival, you can pre-book a private sedan or limo.
- Cost: Starts at $80-$120+ for a sedan, plus 20% gratuity standard.
- Booking: Must be arranged in advance through companies like Boston Car Service, Commonwealth Limousine, or via global apps like Blacklane.
- Best For: Business travelers, families with young children needing car seats, or special occasions.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: The Bottom Line
This table summarizes all key data to help you make the final decision.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (One Way) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Line + Green Line | $2.40 (CharlieCard) | 60-80 min | Budget travelers, solo travelers, light traffic times | Multiple transfers, not ideal for heavy luggage late at night |
| Taxi (Flat Rate) | $38 - $55+ | 20-40 min | Groups of 3-4, direct service, any time of day | Price can spike in traffic; meter might exceed flat rate |
| Uber/Lyft (Standard) | $30 - $55 | 20-40 min | Convenience, dynamic pricing, app-based payment | Surge pricing during peak hours/weather; specific pick-up zones |
| Shared Shuttle Van | $22 - $35 per person | 45-70 min | Pre-booked guaranteed ride, moderate budget | Multiple stops extend travel time; must book in advance |
| Private Car Service | $80 - $120+ | 20-40 min | Luxury, business travel, families with specific needs | Must book well in advance; most expensive option |
Verdict: For best value, take the Silver Line + Green Line. For fastest door-to-door service regardless of cost, take a taxi or rideshare.
Traveler Experience & Insider Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, here’s what you really need to know for a smooth trip.
- Navigating the “T”: Download the “MBTA mTicket” or “Transit” app for real-time train arrivals and service alerts. The Green Line B branch is known for being slower above ground; be patient.
- Luggage Strategy: If you have multiple large suitcases, seriously consider a taxi/rideshare from the airport. While doable on the T, it can be cumbersome during busy times. There are no official luggage forwarding services from BOS like in some Asian/European airports.
- Arriving Late at Night: If your flight lands after 1:00 AM, public transit will not be running. Your only options are taxi, rideshare (which may have high surge pricing), or pre-booking a private car. Plan accordingly.
- Peak Season & Events: Move-in weekend for Boston College (late August), graduation, and Boston Marathon weekend cause extreme traffic and demand. Book private services months in advance, or budget for high surge pricing and longer travel times.
- Payment Ease: Get a reusable CharlieCard from the vending machine at South Station (after the free Silver Line ride). It halves the subway/bus fare and is more convenient than paper tickets.
FAQs: Getting from Logan Airport to Boston College
Is there a direct train from Logan Airport to Boston College?
No, there is no single direct train. The most efficient public transit route requires a combination: a free bus (Silver Line SL1) to South Station, a one-stop subway ride (Red Line), and a final transfer to a light-rail train (Green Line B Branch).
What is the cheapest way to get from Logan to BC?
The absolute cheapest way is the MBTA Silver Line SL1 bus to South Station, then the Red Line to Park Street, then the Green Line B Branch to Boston College. The total cost is $2.40 if you use a CharlieCard, as the Silver Line portion from the airport is free.
How much is a taxi from Logan to Boston College?
The flat rate for a taxi from Logan to the Allston/Brighton area (which includes Boston College) is approximately $38 to $45, not including tolls, tip, or potential heavy traffic surcharges. Always confirm the rate with the driver before departing.
Is Uber or Lyft cheaper than a taxi from Logan?
It depends on demand. During off-peak times with no surge pricing, Uber/Lyft can be slightly cheaper (~$30-$40). However, during rush hour, bad weather, or at night, surge pricing can make them more expensive than a taxi's flat rate. It's wise to check both apps and compare.
What should I do if I arrive at Logan after 1:00 AM?
Since the MBTA subway and Silver Line stop running around 12:30-1:00 AM, your only practical options are a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or a pre-booked private car. Expect higher prices and potential wait times for rideshares during these late-night hours.
Is the public transit route feasible with luggage?
Yes, for most travelers with 1-2 standard suitcases or bags. The Silver Line bus has dedicated luggage racks. The Green Line trolleys can be more challenging during rush hour, so try to board a car in the middle of the train. For extensive or heavy luggage, a taxi/rideshare is recommended.
How long does the Silver Line + Green Line trip take?
You should budget 60 to 80 minutes for the entire journey from terminal exit to Boston College station. This includes walking, waiting for vehicles (typically 5-15 minutes), and the actual travel time. It's slower during off-peak hours when trains run less frequently.
What's the best option for a group of 4 people?
For a group of four, splitting the cost of a taxi, UberXL, or Lyft XL often becomes the most cost-effective and convenient choice. The total fare ($40-$70) divided four ways can be comparable to or cheaper than four separate transit fares ($9.60 total), with the benefit of direct, door-to-door service.