Boston is not an inexpensive city, but it is also not one of the most expensive either. It is about on the same level as most other large US cities.
ATMs are plentiful and can be found on just about any street corner, bodega, grocery store, etc. Most people get by using credit and/or debit cards.
Food is Boston is delicious (especially seafood!) and pretty affordable compared to other large cities. Lower-end places, like pizza joints or sandwich shops, can cost around $5-10. Mid-range meals here will cost about $15-30, and higher-end restaurants will be around $35-50+ per person. * Prices do not reflect the cost of alcohol.
Cabs can be a bit pricey (and difficult to come by) depending on where you are going in the city. For an average ride, you can expect to pay $15-20 plus tip. Car shares like Uber/Lyft/Halo are great, less expensive options.
The subway/bus system, know as "the T" or the MBTA, is a very convenient and fast way to get around Boston. Fares cost either $2.50 cash or $2 with a prepaid CharlieCard (or $2/$1.50 on bus) that you can purchase at some stations or retailers. Getting a CharlieCard is worth it if you think you will be hopping around the city via subway and bus (offers free transfers with the card). You can also purchase one-day or seven-day cards for $11 or $18.
Hotels in Boston generally range from the mid to higher end on the price scale with very little budget hotel options. You can find some hostels around the city that will cost between $40-80 per night. A midrange room will cost about $100-250 per night, with higher-end rooms costing $250+. As always, Airbnb can be another option if you are looking to cut costs (or get your own home rental).
Boston is great for finding affordable entertainment. Some museums offer free admission during the evenings, with regular admission only costing about $15-25. Walking the city is an amazing way to explore for free and take in the historic sites. There are even tons of free concerts in the summer months along the Charles River. Higher-end activities (concerts, shows, etc.) tend to start around $40-50+.
As with any large city, keep your city smarts about you. Be cautious of your surroundings and avoid unpopulated areas at night. Overall, Boston is a pretty safe city.
This is also a great and safe destination for solo women travelers as well as LGBT travelers. As long as you're being smart about what you're doing, staying away from seedy areas, and keeping your belongings close, you should be fine at all times.
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