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

Bright Spacious Studio – Beacon Hill -$2950/month - Pet Friendly -
$2,950
63 Joy Street, Boston, MA 02114
(508) 887-2863
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry and Pet friendly
Recently updated units
Nicely updated studio in the heart of Fenway!
$2,400
28 Hemenway Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Recently renovated
Prime Location
Charming studio in vibrant Boston neighborhood.
Located in a vibrant Boston neighborhood, this charming studio offers style and functionality with hardwood floors and modern kitchens. The pet-friendly property includes valuable amenities like on-site laundry and parking. Residents appreciate the strong community vibe and responsive management, enhancing the overall living experience.
Recently updated units
235 Beacon St.
$2,650
235 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
(262) 844-1801
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Some paid utils, and Furnished
Recently updated units
1665 Commonwealth Ave.
$2,100
1665 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 651-5251
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, and Some paid utils
Convenient Living
Charming studio in a welcoming neighborhood.
1665 Commonwealth Avenue offers a bright and spacious studio apartment with high ceilings and lots of natural light. Residents love its convenient location, known for its walkability and community atmosphere. With on-site laundry and heat and hot water included, it offers practical and easy living.
Recently updated units
50 Columbus Ave.
$2,180
50 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA 02116
(857) 267-1072
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
115 Peterborough St.
$2,150
115 Peterborough Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 875-9391
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, Walk in closets, and Bike storage
Historic Charm
Prime Fenway location offers historic charm and convenience.
Step into a piece of history with this charming property in the heart of Fenway. Enjoy the convenience of on-site laundry and bike storage, making city living easy and hassle-free. With heat and hot water included, experience comfort year-round in this recently renovated studio.
Recently updated units
263 Summer St.
$3,200
263 Summer Street, Boston, MA 02210
(857) 496-7187
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Recently renovated, and Gym
Recently updated units
49 Burbank St.
$2,488
49 Burbank Street, Boston, MA 02115
(857) 300-3782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
The Anchorage
$2,380
103 9th Street, Boston, MA 02129
(774) 305-8660
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Parking, 24hr gym, and Air conditioning
Recently updated units
100 Brainerd Rd.
$1,995
100 Brainerd Road, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 383-5290
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
15 Union St
$3,350
15 Union Street, Boston, MA 02109
(617) 855-9576
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Air conditioning, Internet access, Furnished, Range, and Refrigerator
Chic Comfort
Elegant Studio in Boston's Heart
Experience the charm of this elegantly furnished studio in the heart of Boston's vibrant Faneuil Hall area. With modern design touches and luxurious furnishings, this residence promises a comfortable and stylish retreat. Residents praise its prime location and the seamless blend of design and convenience.
Recently updated units
142 Dorchester Street
$2,100
142 Dorchester Street, Boston, MA 02127
(617) 378-2562
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, All utils included, Air conditioning, and Microwave
Recently updated units
833 Beacon St
$2,300
833 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 386-3873
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
317 Allston St
$2,110
317 Allston Street, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 386-3873
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Parking, and Some paid utils
Ideal Location
Conveniently Located Apartment Across from Whole Foods
Discover a spacious apartment at 317 Allston St., where hardwood floors and high ceilings create an open, inviting space. Cats are welcome, and both heat and hot water are included in the rent. Enjoy the convenience of living directly across from Whole Foods in a walkable neighborhood rich with shops and dining options.
Recently updated units
97 Spring St
$1,900
97 Spring Street, Boston, MA 02132
(617) 999-3772
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, and Elevator
Recently updated units
19 Cumberland St
$2,400
19 Cumberland Street, Boston, MA 02115
(413) 320-3289
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Microwave
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.