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

Alder at Allston Yards
301 Guest Street, Boston, MA 02134
(650) 835-2112
$3,150+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
2 units available
Studio • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Vibrant Convenience
Central Allston oasis with unbeatable amenities and transportation.
Nestled in the lively Allston Yards, Alder offers a blend of modern living with a historic touch. Residents love the welcoming atmosphere created by the friendly staff and the array of amenities like an outdoor patio and gym. Conveniently located near the Boston Landing T station, with quick access to transportation, shops, and restaurants, it's a place that caters to all your needs.
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The Kensington
665 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02111
(617) 860-3675
$3,689+ moTotal price12-mo lease
18 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Urban Oasis
LEED Gold Downtown Living with Luxury Amenities
The Kensington offers prime urban living with a full suite of upscale amenities, including a rooftop pool, gym, and a pet spa. Situated in the heart of Boston, it provides unmatched access to public transportation and city attractions. Residents rave about the superb customer service and community events that enrich the living experience.
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5.0
Clippership Apartments on the Wharf
63 Lewis Street, Boston, MA 02128
(970) 512-3343
$3,161+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Top rated for Location
“Parking expensive”
16 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Harbor Views
Discover Boston's skyline from your balcony.
Clippership Apartments on the Wharf offers breathtaking views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. Residents praise the modern apartments for their high-quality finishes and exceptional amenities, including a full gym and communal spaces that invite relaxation and entertainment. With easy access to the MBTA Blue Line and water taxis, commuting is a breeze while living in this serene urban retreat.
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The Harvey
50 Hood Park Drive, Boston, MA 02129
(253) 292-9237
$2,574+ moTotal price12-mo lease
12 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Urban Oasis
Cost-effective elegance in vibrant Boston neighborhood.
The Harvey in Boston offers exceptional value with modern amenities and a prime location. Residents love the state-of-the-art fitness center and cozy communal spaces. Located in a vibrant neighborhood with easy access to dining, shopping, and transportation, it perfectly balances convenience and sophistication.
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Avalon Exeter
77 Exeter Street, Boston, MA 02199
(619) 350-0058
$3,675+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
6 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Luxury Living
Prime Location with Stunning City Views
Avalon Exeter offers a magnificent lifestyle in Boston’s vibrant Back Bay area. This property not only boasts breathtaking views of Boston and the Charles River but provides direct underground access to the Prudential Center and Star Market, enhancing convenience and comfort. Residents love the luxurious amenities, from a well-equipped fitness center to attentive concierge services, and the perks of being a pet-friendly community.
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Avalon Brighton
139 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02135
(815) 991-4763
$2,870+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
21 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Luxury living near downtown Boston and Cambridge.
Avalon Brighton offers luxury living with modern, open-concept kitchens featuring quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to downtown Boston and Cambridge. Residents rave about the attentive management and the well-equipped fitness and co-working spaces. Cats and dogs are welcome, and there's a charming pet park for your furry friends.
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AVA Back Bay
790 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02199
(424) 365-8569
$3,027+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
14 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, 24hr maintenance + more
Luxury Amenities
Unmatched location and modern comforts.
AVA Back Bay in Boston boasts an unmatched location, offering easy access to restaurants, shopping, and public transit. Residents appreciate its modern amenities, such as a state-of-the-art fitness center and spacious modern kitchens. Reviews rave about the welcoming community and the friendly, responsive management.
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100 Pier 4
100 Pier 4 Blvd., Boston, MA 02210
(617) 944-5371
$3,160+ moTotal price12-mo lease
21 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Iconic Views
Luxury living with stunning harbor views, premier amenities.
Experience elevated living at 100 Pier 4, situated in Boston's lively Seaport District. This striking 21-story complex offers breathtaking harbor views and luxurious interiors with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Residents delight in top-tier amenities such as a state-of-the-art fitness center, scenic outdoor pool, and exclusive resident lounge. Cats and dogs are welcome to enjoy this vibrant lifestyle.
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345 Harrison Avenue
345 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
(857) 214-8341
$2,674+ moTotal price12-mo lease
32 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
Luxury Living
Luxurious city views and resort amenities await you.
Experience unmatched luxury at 345 Harrison Avenue in Boston's South End, where stunning downtown views meet modern elegance. Indulge in top-tier amenities such as a resort-style pool and expansive fitness center. Residents adore the vibrant neighborhood with convenient access to Whole Foods, dining, and transportation just steps away.
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Fenway Triangle
$3,755
180 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
(830) 331-5331
Rent Savings
23 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Prime Location
Ideal Boston Living in Fenway's Vibrant Heart.
Fenway Triangle offers an outstanding location in Boston's lively Fenway neighborhood with easy access to public transportation, dining, and shopping options. Residents love their modern, spacious apartments equipped with top-notch amenities like in-unit washers and dryers. Cats and dogs are welcome, making it a great choice for pet owners.
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22 Liberty Drive unit: 5L
$3,200
22 Liberty Drive, Boston, MA 02210
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Parking, Gym, Air conditioning, and Concierge
Recently updated units
1970 Dorchester Avenue
$2,450
1970 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA 02124
(978) 404-7634
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Gym, Clubhouse, and Bike storage
Recently updated units
Large studio near bmc
$2,540
702 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
(508) 769-8327
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors
Prime Location
Modern living next to BU Medical Center.
Located right by Boston University Medical Center, this 1-bedroom apartment is perfect for medical students and staff. Featuring modern amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, it promises comfort and convenience. The pet-friendly policy accommodates pet lovers, allowing both cats and dogs.
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45 Worthington Street
$2,250
45 Worthington Street, Boston, MA 02120
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed and Recently renovated
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Studio - Allston @ Union Square
$1,775
10 Armington Street, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 866-7634
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
Good sized studio for 9/1 in a hot location!
$2,650
4 Symphony Road, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units

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1 Bedroom Apartments in Boston (428)

Price

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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.