The Quiet Rise of Billy Costa: Boston’s Beloved Radio Voice

On December 24, 1952 — a date that remains his birthday — Billy Costa was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts.  Over decades, he quietly built a media career defined by warmth, consistency, and a loyal fan base — becoming a fixture on Boston radio and television, and amassing a modest but respectable fortune along the way.

A Radio & Television Mainstay: Earning Respect Through Consistency

Billy Costa’s journey traces back to humble beginnings. After attending Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School, he enrolled at Merrimack College on a hockey scholarship, majoring in English.  He later transferred to Emerson College, where a DJ gig at a local nightclub and stints at the college station WERS set the stage for his broadcasting future. 

Post-graduation, Costa cycled through radio jobs — including time at WBOS — before approaching WXKS-FM (better known as “Kiss 108”) in 1980 with a proposal for a lifestyle and entertainment segment. That pitch marked the start of a long relationship with Kiss 108 that would eventually define his career. 

Over the years, Costa became known for lighthearted banter, relatable commentary, and a comforting presence — qualities that translated across mediums. On radio, he co-hosted the long-running show Matty in the Morning until May 2022, and since August 2022 has fronted Billy & Lisa in the Morning on Kiss 108 alongside co-hosts, cementing his place as a Boston broadcast staple. 

On television, he expanded his reach. He hosted the restaurant-review show The Phantom Gourmet, later moved to TV shows including TV Diner (on New England Cable News) and currently co-hosts Dining Playbook on NESN. Simultaneously, Costa served as host of High School Quiz Show on WGBH-TV, helping highlight academic achievement among teens.

In recognition of his enduring contributions, he was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame. 

What His Success Has Earned Him — Estimating Net Worth

Estimates of Costa’s net worth vary. According to one long-standing online source, his wealth is about US$4 million.  Another outlet offers a more generous figure — around US$5 million — though with less transparency regarding data sources.

Given his decades-long presence on both radio and television — plus the sustained popularity of his shows — a mid-seven-figure net worth appears plausible. It reflects the income potential of a long-serving media professional: radio show earnings, television hosting roles, and possibly supplementary income streams via advertising, sponsorships, and local appearances.

Personal Life & Relationships: A Private Man in the Spotlight

Costa keeps his personal life relatively low-key, but certain details are publicly known. He was previously married to a woman named Lisa Fell.  Together they had three sons: Chris, Alex and Dylan. 

In a new chapter of his life, he married longtime partner Michele Steele on October 1, 2021. This union appears to have been met with affection by fans, though Costa maintains a low-profile approach to sharing his personal life publicly.

Despite decades in the public eye, Costa generally avoids undue media scrutiny of his private affairs. Apart from occasional glimpses via social-media shout-outs or public appearances, he seems to prefer keeping the focus on his work rather than his personal narrative.

What Makes Billy Costa Enduring — More Than Just Familiar Voice

What distinguishes Billy Costa from many media personalities is his quiet consistency. Across decades, he’s remained relevant in a rapidly shifting media landscape — moving from local radio DJ, to a fixture on Boston’s top hit station, to television host and cultural mainstay.

His versatility helps. Whether discussing the week’s top songs on Kiss 108, reviewing restaurants for Dining Playbook, or celebrating high-school achievements on Quiz Show, Costa brings an approachable authenticity that resonates with audiences across generations.

Moreover, his involvement in charity and community support — via local foundations, hospitals and youth programs, as noted by the Massachusetts Broadcasters community — adds a dimension of civic responsibility to his public image. 

The Legacy of a Local Legend

Billy Costa’s story isn’t one of overnight stardom or headline-grabbing controversies. Instead, it’s the story of steady growth, community connection, and the gradual accumulation of influence and respect.

From Cambridge-born English major to Boston radio stalwart; from DJ booths to television screens — his journey underscores how consistency, humility, and a genuine bond with listeners can build a lasting legacy. His estimated net worth, stable career, and decades-long public presence reflect not flash, but durability — a blueprint of success grounded in everyday connection rather than spectacle.