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

73 Saint Alphonsus St.
$2,895
73 Saint Alphonsus Street, Boston, MA 02120
(617) 999-7503
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Dogs allowed, Recently renovated, 24hr gym, Dog park, 24hr concierge, Yoga + more
Recently updated units
1536 Tremont Street1536 Tremont Street - 1536 - R
$1,950
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
482 Columbus Ave.
$2,950
482 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
(781) 866-2270
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, and Walk in closets
City Elegance
Luxurious Duplex in Boston's Vibrant South End
Experience the ultimate urban lifestyle in this exquisite South End penthouse. With stunning city views and elegant interior designs, residents enjoy a delightful blend of modern comforts and classic charm. Glowing reviews highlight the vibrant arts and dining scenes, along with the highly walkable neighborhood's ease of access to transportation.
Recently updated units
21 Bowdoin St.
$2,800
21 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA 02114
(617) 721-7461
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
Recently updated units
304 Berkeley St.
$2,195
304 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 739-2211
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Lobby
Recently updated units
Sunny Studio Available 9/1/26
$2,234
31 Allston Street, Boston, MA 02134
(508) 864-0946
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
Sunny Studio Heat and Hot Water Included
$2,450
1111 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215
(508) 864-0946
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Cats allowed, Recently renovated, and 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
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
1 Sayward Pl.
$1,950
1 Sayward Place, Boston, MA 02127
(617) 999-0597
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Nicely renovated studio in the heart of Fenway!
$2,345
1161 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215
(617) 830-2648
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Cats allowed and Recently renovated
Prime Location
Heart of Boston urban space with modern amenities
Positioned in a vibrant Boston neighborhood, this 1-bedroom condo offers an inviting living experience enhanced by its chic hardwood floors and included utilities. Residents praise the prime location for its seamless connectivity to public transit and thriving local dining options. With on-site laundry and a dishwasher, convenience is a constant presence.
Recently updated units
Sunny Studio Heat and Hot Water Included
$2,450
11 Park Drive, Boston, MA 02215
(508) 864-0946
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Recently renovated, and Some paid utils
Recently updated units
Studio Apartment Close to BU and the Green Line
$2,530
51 Saint Stephen Street, Boston, MA 02115
(508) 864-0946
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Recently renovated, Some paid utils, and Garbage disposal
Recently updated units
4 Milford St.
$2,300
4 Milford Street, Boston, MA 02118
(617) 721-1918
1 unit available
Studio
Recently updated units
64 Woodstock Ave.
$2,150
64 Woodstock Avenue, Boston, MA 02134
(860) 424-2782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Some paid utils
Convenient Location
Easy access to public transport and amenities.
Located in the charming Commonwealth neighborhood, 64 Woodstock Avenue offers residents a delightful living experience. Being just a 4-minute walk from the Green Line B Allston Street Station, it ensures smooth commuting to Boston's vibrant downtown. The inclusion of heat and hot water in the rent enhances the value for residents who appreciate comfort and convenience.
Recently updated units
161 Kelton St.
$2,095
161 Kelton Street, Boston, MA 02134
(860) 424-2782
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Cats allowed, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, and Some paid utils
Convenient Commutes
Prime Location Near Public Transit
161 Kelton St. offers a comfortable living environment with spacious apartments featuring high ceilings and large windows. Enjoy easy commutes thanks to its convenient proximity to the Green Line. The neighborhood's vibrancy is enhanced by proximity to Boston University and various shops and restaurants.
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.