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

148 rentals available

365 Beacon Street unit: 3B
$2,300
365 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Some paid utils
Scenic Living
Charming Back Bay Studio in Historic Boston
Nestled in the heart of Back Bay, this studio offers a peaceful tree-lined environment that residents adore. Enjoy the convenience of being less than a 10-minute walk to public transport, grocery stores, and vibrant Newbury Street. Benefit from included heat and hot water, enhancing your living experience.
Recently updated units
247 Beacon Street
$2,475
247 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 818-0801
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, and Air conditioning
Back Bay Charm
Historic Back Bay beauty with modern amenities
Nestled in the heart of Boston's historic Back Bay, this studio apartment offers a charming and comfortable living experience. With newly renovated features, residents can enjoy modern amenities like a granite and stainless steel kitchenette, spacious walk-in closet, and hardwood floors. The highly walkable location ensures easy access to vibrant shopping and dining on Newbury Street.
Recently updated units
Studio in luxury building in South Boston $2750
$2,750
50 B Street, Boston, MA 02127
(508) 887-2863
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Garage, Air conditioning, and Elevator
Recently updated units
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
Charming Studio
$2,600
265 Babcock Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 935-4750
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
Large studio with utilities included.
$2,000
2002 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Some paid utils
Recently updated units
190 Chestnut Hill Ave #12L Boston MA 02135
$2,150
190 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Boston, MA 02135
(617) 340-9712
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, and Garbage disposal
Recently updated units
$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
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
568 Massachusetts Ave #1A Boston MA 02118
$2,300
568 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
(617) 340-9712
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Stainless steel, and Some paid utils
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
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
Beautiful studio in a prime location near Berklee and Northeastern.
$2,300
22 Hemenway Street, Boston, MA 02115
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed and Recently renovated
Recently updated units
657 Massachusetts Ave #1A Boston MA 02118
$2,950
657 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
(617) 340-9712
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Recently updated units

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

1 Bedroom Apartments in Boston (392)

Price

Amenities

Property Type

Boston Short-term Apartments (54)

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.

Studio Apartments for Rent in Boston, MA

365 Beacon Street unit: 3B

247 Beacon Street

Studio in luxury building in South Boston $2750

Bright Spacious Studio – Beacon Hill -$2950/month - Pet Friendly -

Nicely updated studio in the heart of Fenway!

Charming Studio

Large studio with utilities included.

190 Chestnut Hill Ave #12L Boston MA 02135

$1850 Studio Apartment in Oak Sq Brighton - Available for January or Febuary Move in

Huge studio available now.

568 Massachusetts Ave #1A Boston MA 02118

Nicely renovated studio in the heart of Fenway with no broker's fee!