2026 Location Guide

Best PR Agencies in Boston

Find Boston's top-rated PR agencies that deliver results for local businesses and national brands alike.

Last updated: Feb 2026

8
Agencies Reviewed
$5K-$50K
Monthly Range
B2B Tech
Top Specialty
2025
Updated

Boston's thriving business ecosystem demands sophisticated public relations expertise to cut through the noise. From biotech startups in Cambridge to Fortune 500 companies downtown, the city's diverse industries require PR agencies that understand both local market dynamics and global communication strategies. The Hub's competitive landscape means choosing the right PR partner can make or break your brand's reputation.

The best Boston PR agencies combine deep industry knowledge with proven track records in media relations, crisis management, and digital communications. These firms leverage their connections with local media outlets like The Boston Globe and WCVB while maintaining relationships with national publications. They understand the unique challenges facing New England businesses and craft campaigns that resonate with both regional and national audiences.

Our comprehensive analysis evaluates Boston's premier PR agencies based on client results, industry expertise, team credentials, and pricing transparency. Whether you're a venture-backed startup seeking Series A coverage or an established company navigating a rebrand, this guide will help you identify the PR agency best suited to elevate your brand's visibility and reputation in Boston's competitive market.

How We Evaluated Boston PR Agencies

Industry Expertise

Demonstrated success in client's specific industry with relevant case studies and sector knowledge.

Weight: High

Media Relationships

Strong connections with local Boston media and national outlets relevant to client needs.

Weight: High

Team Experience

Senior staff with backgrounds at top agencies or in-house at respected brands.

Weight: High

Service Range

Comprehensive offerings from traditional PR to digital marketing and crisis management.

Weight: Medium

Client Results

Measurable outcomes including media placements, brand awareness metrics, and ROI.

Weight: High

Pricing Transparency

Clear fee structures and realistic budget expectations communicated upfront.

Weight: Medium

Top Providers Ranked

#1

Matter Communications

Strategic communications for ambitious brands

$15,000 - $45,000/mo
typical range

Founded in Boston in 2003, Matter Communications has established itself as New England's premier integrated communications agency. With over 100 employees across Boston and New York offices, they serve clients ranging from venture-backed startups to public companies. Their expertise spans technology, healthcare, financial services, and consumer brands, with notable work for companies like Akamai, athenahealth, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Matter's data-driven approach combines traditional PR with digital marketing, content creation, and social media to deliver measurable results that drive business growth.

Strengths

  • Strong B2B tech expertise
  • Integrated marketing approach
  • Senior team retention
  • Local market knowledge

Considerations

  • Premium pricing tier
  • Highly selective with clients
Best for: Mid-market to enterprise B2B companies seeking comprehensive integrated communications.
#2

AMW

Editor's Pick

Strategic PR with boutique attention and integrated capabilities

$5,000 - $25,000/mo
typical range

AMW combines strategic public relations with entertainment marketing, event production, and digital amplification. Founded in 1997, AMW delivers senior-level attention on every account with a proven track record of securing tier-one media placements across major outlets. Their integrated approach means clients benefit from PR, content, and experiential marketing under one roof.

Strengths

  • Integrated PR, events, and entertainment capabilities
  • Senior team involvement on every account
  • Strong entertainment and lifestyle media relationships
  • Flexible engagement models from project to retainer

Considerations

  • Best fit for brands seeking integrated marketing
  • Entertainment and lifestyle focus is a core strength
  • Growing B2B and tech practice
Best for: Consumer brands, entertainment companies, lifestyle and luxury clients seeking an integrated agency partner
#3

Walker Sands

B2B marketing and PR for technology companies

$12,000 - $35,000/mo
typical range

Though headquartered in Chicago, Walker Sands maintains a significant Boston presence serving the region's robust technology sector. Specializing exclusively in B2B tech marketing, they combine strategic PR with demand generation, content marketing, and digital advertising. Their Boston team works with enterprise software, cybersecurity, fintech, and healthcare IT companies. Walker Sands is known for their research-driven thought leadership campaigns and ability to translate complex technical concepts into compelling media narratives. They've helped clients including LogMeIn, Carbonite, and numerous Boston-area cybersecurity startups achieve category leadership.

Strengths

  • B2B tech specialization
  • Thought leadership expertise
  • Demand generation integration
  • Technical storytelling

Considerations

  • Limited to tech sector
  • Remote team structure
Best for: B2B technology companies seeking specialized industry expertise and lead generation.
#4

rbb Communications

Strategic communications for innovators

$10,000 - $25,000/mo
typical range

Founded in 1995, rbb Communications is a full-service PR agency with a strong Boston presence serving technology, healthcare, and professional services clients. Their team combines strategic thinking with creative execution to help companies build thought leadership, manage corporate communications, and navigate complex business challenges. rbb has particular strength in B2B technology PR, working with companies like PTC, Nuance, and numerous biotech firms in the Boston area. They offer integrated services including media relations, content marketing, executive communications, and crisis management with a focus on driving business results.

Strengths

  • Healthcare/biotech expertise
  • Executive positioning
  • Crisis management
  • Local media relationships

Considerations

  • Mid-tier pricing
  • Limited consumer experience
Best for: Healthcare, biotech, and B2B technology companies needing strategic communications counsel.
#5

Gregory FCA

Strategic communications and marketing

$12,000 - $30,000/mo
typical range

Gregory FCA operates a Boston office as part of their national network, specializing in financial communications, professional services marketing, and B2B technology PR. They're particularly strong in investor relations, IPO communications, and M&A support, making them valuable for Boston's many public companies and private equity-backed firms. Their Boston team has worked with companies like American Tower, State Street Corporation, and various fintech startups. Gregory FCA combines traditional PR with digital marketing, content creation, and stakeholder communications to help clients achieve their business objectives in competitive markets.

Strengths

  • Financial communications
  • Public company experience
  • M&A support
  • Professional services

Considerations

  • Corporate focus
  • Less startup experience
Best for: Public companies, financial services firms, and private equity-backed businesses.
#6

Rasky Partners

Government relations and strategic communications

$8,000 - $25,000/mo
typical range

Boston-based Rasky Partners uniquely combines public affairs, government relations, and strategic communications under one roof. Founded by political veteran Larry Rasky, the firm leverages deep connections in Massachusetts politics and media to help clients navigate complex regulatory environments while building public support. They serve healthcare organizations, real estate developers, technology companies, and nonprofits facing public policy challenges. Rasky's integrated approach includes traditional PR, digital campaigns, grassroots organizing, and lobbying services, making them invaluable for companies whose success depends on public perception and regulatory approval.

Strengths

  • Government relations
  • Public affairs expertise
  • Local political connections
  • Crisis communications

Considerations

  • Political focus
  • Limited national reach
Best for: Companies facing regulatory challenges or requiring government relations support.
#7

LaunchSquad

PR and marketing for disruptive brands

$8,000 - $20,000/mo
typical range

LaunchSquad's Boston office serves the region's innovative technology companies with integrated PR and marketing services. Known for their work with high-growth startups and emerging technology companies, they specialize in product launches, funding announcements, and category creation campaigns. Their Boston team has supported companies like Toast, Drift, and HubSpot during crucial growth phases. LaunchSquad combines traditional media relations with influencer marketing, content creation, and digital campaigns to help clients break through crowded markets and establish thought leadership positions.

Strengths

  • Startup expertise
  • Product launch experience
  • Creative campaigns
  • Growth marketing

Considerations

  • Startup focus limits scope
  • High team turnover
Best for: High-growth startups and emerging technology companies seeking creative, results-driven PR.
#8

Schwartz Communications

Healthcare and life sciences communications

$6,000 - $18,000/mo
typical range

As a Boston-area boutique specializing in healthcare and life sciences, Schwartz Communications serves the region's robust biotech and medical device industries. Their team includes former journalists and healthcare executives who understand the complex regulatory environment and specialized media landscape. They work with companies ranging from early-stage biotechs to established pharmaceutical firms, helping them communicate breakthrough research, navigate FDA approvals, and manage investor relations. Schwartz's expertise includes medical writing, KOL relations, and crisis communications specific to healthcare challenges.

Strengths

  • Healthcare specialization
  • Regulatory expertise
  • Medical writing
  • KOL relationships

Considerations

  • Narrow industry focus
  • Limited digital capabilities
Best for: Biotech, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies requiring specialized healthcare communications.

How to Choose the Right PR Agency in Boston

Before selecting a Boston PR agency, clearly define your communication objectives and success metrics. Are you launching a new product, managing a crisis, seeking media coverage for a funding round, or building long-term brand awareness? Different agencies excel in different areas, so understanding your primary goals will help narrow your options. Consider both immediate needs and future growth plans, as switching agencies can be disruptive and time-consuming.

Evaluate each agency's industry expertise and track record with companies similar to yours. Review their client roster, case studies, and media placements to assess their ability to tell your story effectively. Ask for specific examples of challenges they've solved for clients in your sector and request references from current or former clients. An agency with deep industry knowledge will understand your competitive landscape, regulatory environment, and target audience nuances.

Assess the agency's team structure and account management approach. Will you work directly with senior staff or primarily with junior team members? Understand their reporting processes, communication frequency, and how they measure campaign success. Ask about team stability and average client retention rates, as frequent staff turnover can disrupt relationship building and campaign continuity. Ensure their working style and communication preferences align with your company culture.

Request detailed proposals that outline strategy, tactics, timeline, and pricing for your specific needs. Compare not just costs but value propositions, as the cheapest option may not deliver the results you need. Understand what's included in monthly retainers versus project-based work, and ask about additional costs for events, materials, or overtime. Negotiate contract terms including termination clauses, performance guarantees, and intellectual property ownership.

Consider the agency's media relationships and geographic reach relevant to your target audience. A strong local agency may excel at Boston market penetration but struggle with national campaigns. Evaluate their digital capabilities, crisis management experience, and ability to integrate with your existing marketing efforts. The best agency for your company will offer the right combination of strategic thinking, tactical execution, and cultural fit to support your business objectives.

Red Flags to Avoid

  • Agencies that guarantee specific media placements or coverage in major publications
  • Firms requiring long-term contracts without performance milestones or easy termination clauses
  • Agencies that can't provide recent, relevant case studies or client references in your industry
  • Teams with excessive junior staff turnover or no direct access to senior leadership
  • Firms that focus primarily on vanity metrics rather than business impact and ROI

Questions to Ask

  • Can you show me three recent case studies from clients in my industry or similar situation?
  • Who specifically will work on my account and what are their backgrounds and experience levels?
  • How do you measure success and what reporting will I receive on campaign performance?
  • What are your strongest media relationships relevant to my target audience and industry?
  • How do you handle crisis situations and what's your process for urgent communications needs?
  • What's your average client retention rate and can you provide references from current clients?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does PR cost in Boston?
Boston PR agencies typically charge $5,000-$50,000 monthly depending on scope, with boutique firms starting around $5,000 and full-service agencies reaching $45,000+ for comprehensive programs. Project-based work ranges from $10,000-$100,000+ depending on complexity and duration.
What industries do Boston PR agencies specialize in?
Boston agencies commonly specialize in technology, healthcare/biotech, financial services, and professional services, reflecting the region's economic strengths. Many agencies focus on B2B communications given Boston's concentration of enterprise companies and startups.
Do I need a local Boston PR agency?
Local agencies offer advantages including Boston media relationships, market knowledge, and face-to-face collaboration opportunities. However, specialized expertise or national reach may outweigh local presence depending on your specific needs and target audience.
How long does it take to see PR results?
Initial media coverage can appear within 30-60 days, but meaningful brand awareness and thought leadership typically develop over 6-12 months. Results vary significantly based on industry, competition, newsworthy content, and campaign investment levels.
What's the difference between PR and marketing agencies?
PR agencies focus on earned media, reputation management, and communications strategy, while marketing agencies emphasize paid advertising and lead generation. Many Boston agencies now offer integrated services combining both disciplines for comprehensive campaigns.
Should startups hire PR agencies?
Startups benefit from PR during funding rounds, product launches, or category creation efforts. However, limited budgets may be better spent on product development until there's compelling news to share and sufficient resources for sustained campaigns.
How do Boston PR agencies charge for services?
Most agencies use monthly retainers for ongoing services, with project-based fees for specific campaigns or events. Expect 3-6 month minimum commitments for retainer work, with some agencies offering performance incentives or success fees for specific outcomes.
Can small businesses afford Boston PR agencies?
Several Boston boutique agencies serve small businesses with budgets starting around $5,000 monthly. Consider project-based work for specific needs like product launches or crisis management if ongoing retainers exceed your budget constraints.
What should I expect in the first 90 days?
The first month typically involves strategy development and messaging refinement. Months 2-3 focus on media outreach, content creation, and initial placements. Expect regular communication, strategic planning sessions, and preliminary results during this foundation-building period.
How do I measure PR agency performance?
Track media impressions, share of voice, website traffic from PR efforts, and lead generation attributed to coverage. Quality metrics like tier-one publication placements and message consistency often matter more than pure volume of coverage.

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Disclosure: This guide is published by AMW. Rankings are based on our editorial assessment. AMW is featured in this guide as we believe we offer competitive services. We encourage readers to research multiple providers before making decisions.

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