Quick Answer
The best way for most travelers is the MBTA public transit system: take the free Silver Line SL1 bus from any terminal to South Station, then transfer to the Green Line (B, C, or D branch) to Brookline. Total cost is just the subway fare ($2.40), taking 45-70 minutes. For convenience with luggage, a shared shuttle or ride-share is best, while a taxi is the most direct but expensive option.
Option 1: Public Transit (MBTA) – The Budget-Friendly Choice
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), or "the T," offers the most economical transfer from Logan Airport (BOS) to Brookline. This two-leg journey leverages a free bus-to-subway transfer and is highly reliable outside of peak rush hours.
Step-by-Step Guide: Silver Line to Green Line
- Find the Silver Line: Follow signs for “Ground Transportation” and “Silver Line” in your terminal. The SL1 bus stops are located on the lower level outside each baggage claim.
- Board the SL1 to South Station: All SL1 buses from the airport are FREE. The ride takes 15-25 minutes, terminating at South Station Transit Center.
- Transfer to the Green Line: Inside South Station, follow signs for the Red Line subway, but you will transfer to the Green Line at Park Street or Government Center (one stop away). Alternatively, take a short 5-minute walk above ground to the Downtown Crossing or Boylston Green Line stations.
- Take the Green Line to Brookline:
- B Branch (Boston College): Stops at Coolidge Corner, St. Paul St, Boston College.
- C Branch (Cleveland Circle): Stops at Coolidge Corner, Summit Ave, Brandon Hall.
- D Branch (Riverside): Stops at Brookline Village, Brookline Hills, Beaconsfield.
| MBTA Fare Type | Cost (Green Line Leg) | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| CharlieCard (Reusable) | $2.40 | Machine at South Station, online |
| CharlieTicket/Paper Ticket | $2.90 | Machine at any station |
| 1-Day Pass (Unlimited) | $11.00 | Machine, useful for day of arrival |
Pros, Cons & Deep Analysis
Pros: Extremely cheap ($2.40 total); Free Silver Line segment; Frequent service; Avoids traffic; Serves multiple Brookline stops.
Cons: Not direct; Can be crowded (esp. rush hour 7-9 AM, 4-6:30 PM); Challenging with heavy luggage due to stairs and limited space; Slower in bad traffic (Silver Line segment runs in mixed traffic).
Best For: Solo travelers or pairs with light luggage, budget travelers, and those arriving during off-peak hours.
Option 2: Shared Shuttles & Hotel Vans – Balanced Convenience
Shared door-to-door shuttle services offer a middle ground between cost and convenience, especially for groups or those with more baggage.
How Shuttles Work
After claiming baggage, proceed to the Ground Transportation counters or designated shuttle pick-up zones. You can often book on the spot, but advance online booking is recommended for guaranteed availability and better rates.
Key Operators & Details
- Go Boston Shuttle / Boston Express: Offers shared van service. You may share with others heading to nearby destinations.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many Brookline hotels (e.g., Courtyard by Marriott, Hilton) offer free shuttles. You must confirm directly with your hotel in advance.
- SuperShuttle / Shared Van Services: While some national brands have reduced service, local companies fill this niche. Check the official Massport shuttle page for current vetted operators.
Cost: $20 - $40 per person. Travel Time: 30-50 minutes (highly dependent on other drop-offs). Luggage: Ample space in dedicated vans.
Deep Dive: Shuttles are ideal if your destination is not near a Green Line stop. They provide a stress-free, door-to-door experience without the high cost of a taxi. The primary drawback is time – you may have to wait for the van to fill up and then make multiple stops before yours.
Option 4: Private Car, Rental, or Being Picked Up
If you plan to drive yourself or have someone meet you, careful planning is required due to Logan’s busy roadways.
Rental Cars
All rental car companies are located at the Rental Car Center. Take the free Logan Rental Car Shuttle from outside any terminal. The drive from the center to Brookline takes 15-30 minutes. Consider: High cost of rental, gas, and particularly expensive and limited parking in Brookline.
Being Picked Up (Cell Phone Lot)
For friends/family picking you up: Do NOT wait at the terminal curbside. Use the free Cell Phone Lot on Service Road. Drivers can wait there for free until you have claimed your bags and are curbside. Then, they have just 10-15 minutes for a free pick-up at your terminal.
Private Pre-Booked Transfers
Luxury car services (e.g., Boston Chauffeur) can be pre-booked for a flat fee. A driver will meet you at baggage claim with a sign. Cost: $80-$120+. Best for: Business travel or special occasions.
Cost & Time Comparison: Logan Airport to Brookline
Use this table to quickly compare all options. The “Best For” column helps match the choice to your priorities.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (Per Person) | Approx. Travel Time | Luggage Friendliness | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MBTA Public Transit | $2.40 - $2.90 | 45 - 70 min | Poor (Stairs, Crowds) | Budget travelers, light packers |
| Shared Shuttle / Van | $20 - $40 | 30 - 50 min* | Good | Small groups, door-to-door convenience |
| Ride-Share (UberX/Lyft) | $30 - $45+ | 20 - 40 min | Excellent | Convenience, 2-4 people splitting cost |
| Taxi | $35 - $50 + tip & toll | 20 - 40 min | Excellent | Late arrivals, immediate pick-up |
| Rental Car | $50+/day + parking & gas | 15 - 30 min | Excellent | Travelers exploring beyond Boston |
* Shuttle time can vary significantly based on other passenger drop-offs.
Verdict: For the best overall value, choose the MBTA. For the best balance of cost and convenience with bags, choose a shared shuttle. For the fastest, most convenient option regardless of cost, choose a taxi or ride-share.
Traveler Tips & Local Insights for a Smooth Trip
Beyond the schedules and fares, these practical tips from frequent travelers will make your journey smoother.
Luggage Strategy
- Heavy Bags? Avoid the Green Line during rush hour. The trolleys have narrow aisles and can be packed.
- Consider a Porter: For a fee, curbside porters at Logan can help you to the taxi stand or Silver Line stop.
Navigating Transit Like a Pro
- Download the MBTA “Transit” App: For real-time Green Line schedules and service alerts.
- Green Line Branches: Ensure you board the correct branch (B, C, or D). They diverge after Kenmore Station. Signs on the front of the train indicate the destination.
- Free Transfer: Remember, the Silver Line SL1 is free from Logan. You only pay when you tap onto the Green Line.
Timing & Traffic Awareness
- Rush Hour (M-F 7-9 AM, 4-6:30 PM): Both road traffic (taxis/shuttles) and Green Line trains will be at their most congested. Add 15-30 minutes to all time estimates.
- Weekends & Events: Green Line service can be altered for maintenance or events (e.g., Red Sox games at Fenway). Check the MBTA alerts page before you travel.
Payment & Connectivity
- Get a CharlieCard: If you plan to use the T more during your stay, the reusable CharlieCard saves $0.50 per ride.
- Free Airport Wi-Fi: Logan offers “_Free BOS WiFi” to book a ride-share or shuttle upon arrival.
FAQs: Logan Airport to Brookline Transportation
What is the cheapest way to get from Logan Airport to Brookline?
The cheapest way is by public transit using the MBTA. Take the free Silver Line SL1 bus from any airport terminal to South Station, then transfer to the Green Line (B, C, D, or E branch) heading towards Boston College, Cleveland Circle, Riverside, or Heath Street. The total cost is just the MBTA subway fare ($2.40 with a CharlieCard, $2.90 with cash/ticket).
Is there a direct train or subway from Logan Airport to Brookline?
No, there is no single direct train. Logan Airport does not have a traditional subway station. The most direct public transit route involves a two-part journey: First, a free bus (Silver Line SL1) to a downtown transit hub, followed by a transfer to the Green Line trolley which serves Brookline.
How long does it take to get from Logan to Brookline using public transportation?
The total travel time varies between 45 to 70 minutes. This includes: 15-25 minutes on the Silver Line SL1 (depending on traffic), a 5-10 minute transfer at South Station, and a 15-35 minute ride on the Green Line to your stop in Brookline (e.g., Coolidge Corner, Brookline Village).
What is the best option if I have a lot of luggage?
For travelers with multiple or heavy bags, public transit can be challenging due to stairs, crowds, and limited space. A shared shuttle, taxi, or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) is highly recommended. Shuttles offer door-to-door service at a moderate price, while taxis provide the most direct and convenient (but costly) option.
Are there shared shuttle services from Logan to Brookline?
Yes, several shared shuttle and van services operate between Logan and Brookline neighborhoods. Companies like Go Boston Shuttle and others offer shared rides. You must book in advance online or at their airport counters. Fares are typically $20-$40 per person, making it a good balance of cost and convenience.
How much does a taxi or Uber cost from Logan Airport to Brookline?
A metered taxi fare is a fixed rate of approximately $35-$50 to most parts of Brookline, plus toll ($2.75 for the Ted Williams Tunnel) and tip. Ride-share apps (UberX, Lyft Standard) typically cost between $30-$45, but surge pricing during peak hours can double this. The trip takes 20-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Can I use the MBTA CharlieCard from the airport?
Yes, and it's recommended. The Silver Line SL1 bus from the airport is free when boarding at Logan terminals. You will only need to pay (and thus need a CharlieCard or ticket) when you transfer to the Green Line at South Station. You can purchase a CharlieCard or single-ride ticket at machines inside South Station.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
The MBTA runs until about 12:30 AM. If you arrive after that, your options are: 1) Taxi (available 24/7 outside each terminal), 2) Ride-share (Uber/Lyft, also 24/7), or 3) Pre-booked private shuttle/transfer. Avoid public transit planning for arrivals past midnight unless you confirm the latest MBTA schedule.