Is it OK to live in a studio apartment?

Absolutely — getting established in a new city is a marathon, not a sprint, and renting an efficiency or studio apartment in Boston is a great step along your journey. Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced pro, consider whether the apartment is affordable, safe, and comfortable. If it meets those criteria, your space is perfect. The only thing left to do is make it home. And if you decide to search for an apartment with a little more space in the future, Apartment List will be there to help.

What part of Boston has the cheapest rent?

Boston’s median rent prices and cost of living are higher than the national average. But with access to top-notch education, incredible historical landmarks, and plentiful green spaces, the city is definitely worth the price. Median rents throughout Boston are: - 1BR : $2,315/month - 2BR : $2,483/month But if you’re looking for a Boston studio apartment for rent in more budget-friendly neighborhoods, consider these options: - Dorchester Center : This diverse and vibrant community is perfect for young professionals. - Malden : If you’re looking for a suburban feel and accessibility to downtown Boston, check out this neighborhood . - Jamaica Plain : With tree-lined streets and an artistic vibe, creatives will feel at home. - Fort Hill : This close-knit community is an ideal place for history buffs. - Savin Hill : Retirees and students appreciate the waterfront views and quiet, laid-back vibe here.

How do you live in Boston for cheap?

If you want to live on a budget, the first step is to avoid Boston apartments in luxury areas like Commonwealth Ave or Louisburg Square. Another hack is to make the most of transportation options. Boston has extensive public transit as well as biking and walking trails for the frugal commuter. Finally, the city has plenty of free attractions to keep you entertained. The culturally minded will enjoy the Harvard Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, while outdoor lovers can stretch their legs at Walden Pond and Boston Common.

Start your Boston search

How many bedrooms do you need?

Studio Apartments for Rent in Boston, MA

183 rentals available

213 Newbury St
$2,200
213 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 935-5605
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Fireplace, Extra storage, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
19 South Russell
$2,200
19 South Russell Street, Boston, MA 02114
(617) 939-1078
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors
Recently updated units
290 Commonwealth Ave 8
$2,100
290 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 936-4194
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, Elevator, Some paid utils, and Key fob access
Prime Location
Exclusive Back Bay condominium with modern amenities.
Discover the elegance of living at 290 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston's prestigious Back Bay. This beautifully renovated one-bedroom condominium boasts soaring ceilings, elegant bay windows, and a chef-inspired kitchen with stainless steel finishes. Steps from Newbury Street's shops and restaurants, plus Boston Public Garden, residents enjoy unparalleled convenience.
Recently updated units
233 Beacon
$2,500
233 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 939-1078
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
250 Newbury St
$2,500
250 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 388-3585
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, and Cats allowed
Recently updated units
505 Beacon St.
$1,995
505 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 549-9562
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, and Bathtub
Recently updated units
74 Brainerd Rd.
$1,800
74 Brainerd Road, Boston, MA 02134
(857) 294-2116
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Gym, and Some paid utils
Vibrant Location
Prime spot in Boston's trendiest new neighborhood.
Nestled in the vibrant Allston Green District, this property offers a charming blend of vintage architecture and modern enhancements. With heat and hot water included, plus an on-site fitness center and laundry, comfort is guaranteed. Enjoy convenience with the Green Line T stop just a block away.
Recently updated units
430 Stuart St.
$10,000
430 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
(401) 640-9275
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Garage + more
Luxury Lifestyle
Discover Raffles Boston's urban elegance and luxurious amenities.
Immerse yourself in urban elegance at Raffles Boston, located in the vibrant Back Bay neighborhood. Residents cherish the stunning views, luxury amenities, and Michelin-starred dining experiences. With a walkable environment and exclusive resident perks, this is the ideal place for those seeking sophistication and convenience.
Recently updated units
204 Hemenway St
$2,650
204 Hemenway Street, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 396-7701
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, and Some paid utils
Prime Location
Close to universities and vibrant local amenities.
Located near the vibrant Fenway - Kenmore neighborhood, this property is ideal for those who appreciate city life. Spacious rooms with large windows offer plenty of natural light. Enjoy the convenience of being within a short walk to Northeastern University and various other colleges, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes.
Recently updated units
189 Chestnut Hill Ave.
$1,995
189 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(857) 294-2116
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Parking, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
Good sized studio for 9/1 in a hot location!
$2,650
10 Symphony Road, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
49 South Huntington
$1,595
49 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130
(617) 378-2562
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
Large studio with utilities included.
$2,000
2002 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Some paid utils
Recently updated units
29 Queensberry St.
$2,500
29 Queensberry Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 792-4156
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
14 Ridgecrest Ter.
$1,810
14 Ridgecrest Terrace, Boston, MA 02132
(617) 438-5038
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Parking
Recently updated units
1846 Commonwealth Ave.
$1,875
1846 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(860) 424-2782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

1 Bedroom Apartments in Boston (428)

Price

Amenities

Property Type

Boston Short-term Apartments (53)

Explore Studio Apartments for Rent in Boston

Boston, Massachusetts has a lively combination of sporting events, cultural attractions, and educational opportunities blending into the historic landscape. An eclectic population calls the city home, from college students to families to retirees.

Beantown residents have easy access to iconic landmarks like Fenway Park and Beacon Hill. Wandering amongst novelty shops and eateries in the Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a favorite activity for many. Others prefer educational outings like visiting the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum or the New England Aquarium. And for outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of walks through the Boston Public Garden or along the Charles River Pathway.

With so much to explore, it’s no wonder so many people want to move to Boston. But in such a competitive rental market, you need a better apartment-hunting strategy than typing “studio apartment for rent near me” into Google.

Thankfully, Apartment List is here to help. When you complete our Renter Quiz, you’ll get a curated list of Boston studio apartments matching your specific criteria, like budget, amenities, and neighborhood. Even a complex search for a pet-friendly studio in Boston with laundry facilities and air conditioning is simple, letting you find your dream home faster than ever.

The city offers a wide range of housing options, but if you’re a student, a young professional, or just on a budget, renting a studio apartment in Boston may be your best bet. Not only is it easier on your pocketbook, but its compact size is also simpler to maintain, letting you enjoy everything The City on a Hill offers. Plus, you build the home you want without consulting roommates — an important consideration for folks enrolled in one of Boston’s 35 colleges or universities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Absolutely — getting established in a new city is a marathon, not a sprint, and renting an efficiency or studio apartment in Boston is a great step along your journey. Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced pro, consider whether the apartment is affordable, safe, and comfortable. If it meets those criteria, your space is perfect. The only thing left to do is make it home.
And if you decide to search for an apartment with a little more space in the future, Apartment List will be there to help.
Boston’s median rent prices and cost of living are higher than the national average. But with access to top-notch education, incredible historical landmarks, and plentiful green spaces, the city is definitely worth the price.
Median rents throughout Boston are:
- - 1BR: $2,315/month
- - 2BR: $2,483/month
But if you’re looking for a Boston studio apartment for rent in more budget-friendly neighborhoods, consider these options:
- - Dorchester Center: This diverse and vibrant community is perfect for young professionals.
- - Malden: If you’re looking for a suburban feel and accessibility to downtown Boston, check out this neighborhood.
- - Jamaica Plain: With tree-lined streets and an artistic vibe, creatives will feel at home.
- - Fort Hill: This close-knit community is an ideal place for history buffs.
- - Savin Hill: Retirees and students appreciate the waterfront views and quiet, laid-back vibe here.
If you want to live on a budget, the first step is to avoid Boston apartments in luxury areas like Commonwealth Ave or Louisburg Square. Another hack is to make the most of transportation options. Boston has extensive public transit as well as biking and walking trails for the frugal commuter.
Finally, the city has plenty of free attractions to keep you entertained. The culturally minded will enjoy the Harvard Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, while outdoor lovers can stretch their legs at Walden Pond and Boston Common.