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

$1850 Studio Apartment in Oak Sq Brighton - Available for January or Febuary Move in
$1,850
393 Faneuil Street, Boston, MA 02135
(508) 887-2863
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
837 Beacon St #205 Boston MA 02215
$2,300
837 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 340-9712
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry
Student Retreat
Ideal for Boston University Neighbors
Discover a sun-lit retreat steps from Audubon Circle, perfect for students and professionals alike. Enjoy a bright living space with modern comforts, including a fully equipped kitchen and convenient on-site laundry. Proximity to Boston University and public transport enhances accessibility and community engagement.
Recently updated units
Fresh Studio ready for move in Jan1
$2,225
1194 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02134
(508) 864-0946
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors and Cats allowed
Recently updated units
59 Salem St.
$1,950
59 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113
(781) 727-9802
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
48 Linden St.
$2,125
48 Linden Street, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 792-4156
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
34 Temple St.
$2,300
34 Temple Street, Boston, MA 02114
(617) 388-3585
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors
Recently updated units
62 South Huntington Ave.
$1,950
62 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130
(617) 804-5655
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, and Some paid utils
Convenient Location
Easy access to public transport and amenities.
Located on the MBTA Green E line, this property offers superb convenience for commuters. Hardwood floors and heat and hot water included enhance its appeal. Residents appreciate the accessible amenities and responsive management.
Recently updated units
63 Woodstock Ave.
$2,040
63 Woodstock Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 792-4156
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry and Some paid utils
Convenient Location
Spacious Living with Excellent Transport Links
63 Woodstock Ave offers a spacious one-bedroom plus alcove apartment, beautifully nestled near public transport. Residents value its cleanliness and well-maintained interiors, alongside the convenience of having a T station within walking distance. Experience the ease of city living with a heat and hot water included package, making it a great value choice.
Recently updated units
235 Harrison Ave.
$2,025
235 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111
(617) 792-4156
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry
Modern Comfort
Prime location with modern features and amenities.
235 Harrison Ave. offers spacious and modern apartments praised for their contemporary design and cleanliness. The building is in a prime location, providing easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and shopping. Residents enjoy an on-site fitness center and commend the responsive and helpful management and maintenance teams.
Recently updated units
281 Franklin St.
$2,890
281 Franklin Street, Boston, MA 02110
(508) 348-7737
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Air conditioning, Hot tub + more
Recently updated units
35 Saint Germain St.
$2,450
35 Saint Germain Street, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 388-3585
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
68 Woodstock Ave.
$1,995
68 Woodstock Avenue, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 505-5977
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Parking, and Some paid utils
Commuter Convenience
Steps to Green Line and lively Allston neighborhood.
This Brighton studio is mere steps from the Allston Street and Warren Street T stops, offering effortless commutes via the Green Line. Enjoy included heat and hot water, making it a cost-effective living option. Residents love the cat-friendly policy and convenience of on-site laundry.
Recently updated units
159 Kelton St.
$1,995
159 Kelton Street, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 505-5977
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors
Budget-friendly Living
Convenient and Cost-effective Boston Living
Nestled in a vibrant part of Boston, this property at 159 Kelton Street offers a beautifully laid out one-bedroom apartment perfect for easy commutes with the Green Line nearby. Renters will benefit from the inclusion of heat and hot water, making this a cost-effective choice. Its pet-friendly policy welcomes cats, while being within walking distance to local amenities enhances the living experience.
Recently updated units
Huge studio available now.
$2,100
1597 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed
Recently updated units
Nicely renovated studio in the heart of Fenway with no broker's fee!
$2,350
1159 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
Huge studio available now.
$2,100
1603 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed
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.