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

191 rentals available

1 of 4
Kenmore Sq - Studio $1,685 - 9/1
$1,685
901 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 335-2266
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Some paid utils and Internet access
Recently updated units
1 of 9
Modern Spacious Sunny Studio in old School building Conversion Utilities included NO Fee Students ok
$1,950
10 Armington Street, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 212-5819
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Pet friendly 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
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
19 Cumberland St
$2,350
19 Cumberland Street, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 935-5605
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Microwave
Recently updated units
1536 Tremont Street1536 Tremont Street - 1536 - R
$2,295
1536 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02120
(855) 476-6291
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Air conditioning, and Refrigerator
Recently updated units
317 Allston Street
$1,950
317 Allston Street, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 309-6691
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Elevator, 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
5 Union Ave
$1,100
5 Union Avenue, Boston, MA 02130
(781) 670-5750
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, All utils included, Microwave, Internet access, Range, and Oven
Recently updated units
313 Allston St.
$1,900
313 Allston Street, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 739-2211
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Some paid utils, and Garbage disposal
Recently updated units
1384 Commonwealth Ave.
$2,000
1384 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02134
(508) 560-5986
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry and Hardwood floors
Recently updated units
109a Dartmouth
$2,300
109 Dartmouth Street, Boston, MA 02116
(857) 300-3782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
419 Hanover St.
$2,350
419 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113
(781) 727-9802
1 unit available
Studio
Vibrant Locale
Live at the heart of Boston's North End dining paradise.
419 Hanover St. is nestled in the lively North End, renowned for its rich history and top-notch dining options right at your doorstep. This excellently located property offers modern amenities, such as stainless-steel appliances and hardwood floors, providing an enhanced living experience. Enjoy the convenience of a 99 Walk Score, enabling effortless access to daily necessities and leisure activities without needing a car.
Recently updated units
1088 Boylston St.
$2,800
1088 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215
(978) 317-4010
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors and Dishwasher
Recently updated units
96 Washington St.
$2,095
96 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02135
(860) 424-2782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Parking, Recently renovated, Elevator, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
592 Cambridge St.
$1,895
592 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 599-4793
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Parking, Some paid utils, and Carpet
Recently updated units
368 Riverway
$2,150
368 Riverway, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 590-0455
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Parking, and Accessible
Prime Location
Convenient access to Longwood and transit lines.
368 Riverway offers a spacious one-bedroom apartment in the heart of Mission Hill. This property stands out with its included heat and hot water, ensuring a comfortable living experience. Furthermore, residents benefit from the convenience of on-site laundry facilities. Its proximity to the Orange and Green Line trains makes commuting a breeze.
Recently updated units

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1 Bedroom Apartments in Boston (441)

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Boston Short-term Apartments (58)

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.