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

187 rentals available

1 of 1
Charming studio
Ask for price
853 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
Contact for Availability
Amenities
Hardwood floors and Dishwasher
1 of 10
25 Queensberry
$2,495
25 Queensberry Street, Boston, MA 02215
(857) 294-2116
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors and Recently renovated
Modern Amenities
Centrally Located with Modern Conveniences
25 Queensberry St. shines with its remarkable blend of modern amenities and prime Boston location. Residents appreciate the updated kitchens with sleek granite countertops and hardwood floors, contributing to an upscale living experience. Convenient access to downtown, universities, and public transit ensures effortless city living.
Recently updated units
505 Beacon St.
$1,995
505 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 602-2287
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, and Bathtub
Recently updated units
27 Bowdoin
$3,995
27 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA 02114
(857) 389-8614
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
233 Beacon
$3,200
233 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 939-1078
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
120 Riverway
$2,000
120 Riverway, Boston, MA 02215
(678) 333-5682
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Elevator, Bike storage, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
281 Franklin St.
$3,350
281 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110
(617) 602-5844
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
21 Chestnut Hill Ave.
$2,150
21 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 803-5000
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
19 South Russell
$2,200
19 South Russell Street, Boston, MA 02114
(617) 939-1078
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
$2,075 Updated Studio in Allston | Renovated Kitchen & Bath | Cat Friendly with Approval | Near BU
$2,075
17 Royce Road, Boston, MA 02134
(202) 421-0671
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Recently renovated, Gym, and Coffee bar
Recently updated units
1127 Harrison Street
Ask for price
1127 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02119
(617) 378-2562
Contact for Availability
Amenities
In unit laundry, Stainless steel, Internet access, and Range
31-35 India St.
$2,950
31-35 India Street, Boston, MA 02109
(617) 901-8847
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Internet access
Recently updated units
Nicely renovated studio in Cleveland Circle!
$2,000
6 Chiswick Terrace, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Recently renovated
Recently updated units
8 Garrison 212
$2,500
8 Garrison Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 936-4194
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Elevator, Some paid utils, Microwave, Furnished, and Range
Recently updated units
213 Albany
$3,009
213 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118
(617) 386-9307
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, All utils included, Garage, Stainless steel, Gym + more
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

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Bedrooms

1 Bedroom Apartments in Boston (486)

Price

Amenities

Property Type

Boston Short-term Apartments (57)

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.