Commuting to Boston from Acton area?

Question

I am going to be working in Boston this summer but commuting from my family home near Acton. I don't know whether it's a better idea to drive in or take the commuter train.

If I drive I'll be taking route 2 into Cambridge and parking at Alewife, then taking the T... so I'd have to pay for gas, $5 for parking, and $3.40 for the T.

If I take the commuter rail in, I'd either be paying $15.50 each day, plus the $3.40 for the T. I don't think the monthly pass ($250) would be worth it for 3-4 days a week, although that would cover both my train and T fare.

It seems like Alewife would be the best option, but I don't know how bad traffic is on route 2 in the peak rush hour times. Any advice?

Answer 1

I would rather work at a fast food restaurant in the middle of farm country than deal with that commute. I did it for 3 years. During the Winter, you are looking at 2 hours each way, maybe even more if a Nor'Easter blows in. On a good day, you can plan on over an hour each way.

Answer 2

First of all, Alwife rate has already reached $7 a day. and you have to put about an hour for driving along Rt.2 to be safe, 45 min if you are very lucky! Maybe you are better off taking commute rail from either S. Acton or W. Concord to the North station. Think about it.