Boston, MA, is a historic city brimming with culture, academic institutions, and iconic landmarks. With a population of around 692,000 residents, Boston has a unique blend of colonial charm and modern innovation. From the Freedom Trail to Fenway Park, Boston’s rich history and attractions draw residents from around the world.
In Boston, the average rent for a studio apartment is $3,112, while a one-bedroom unit averages $3,782. If those prices are out of your budget, ApartmentGuide can help. We’ve gathered a list of the 9 most affordable neighborhoods in Boston to rent in this year.
9 Affordable Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
From the picturesque Commonwealth to the vibrant North Allston, there are plenty of affordable options for renters. Let’s explore the options and find the right Boston neighborhood for you.
1. Commonwealth
2. North Allston
3. East Watertown
4. Back Bay West
5. Watertown West End
6. Oak Square
7. Fenway – Kenmore – Audubon Circle – Longwood
8. Fenway
9. North End
Read on to see what each neighborhood has to offer its residents.
1. Commonwealth
Average studio rent: $1,600
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,300
Apartments for rent in Commonwealth
Commonwealth is Boston’s most affordable neighborhood, with an average one-bedroom unit costing $2,300. There are plenty of reasons to love living in Commonwealth, from attractions like the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum and Brighton Music Hall, to green spaces like the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. If you’re looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants and taverns to explore, showcasing Boston’s food scene. For renters living in Boston without a car, the Green Line C stop is in Commonwealth.
2. North Allston
Average studio rent: $2,850
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,300
Apartments for rent in North Allston
North Allston is a bustling area just across the river from Cambridge. This affordable neighborhood has many attractions, such as Harvard Stadium, Harvard Business School, and Christian Herter Park. It’s also significantly less expensive than some surrounding areas, like Mid-Cambridge, but you’re still close enough to explore the area.
3. East Watertown
Average studio rent: $2,250
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,400
Apartments for rent in East Watertown
With an average one-bedroom rent of $2,400, East Watertown is the third-most affordable neighborhood in Boston. This neighborhood is an awesome option as it’s near attractions like the Arsenal Community Park and Skate Park, and Washington Tower. There are also picturesque views of the river, so this area is great for exploring and enjoying Boston.
4. Back Bay West
Average studio rent: $2,300
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,700
Apartments for rent in Back Bay West
Back Bay West is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in Boston. This neighborhood is an excellent option if you’re looking to be just steps away from some of Boston’s most famed attractions. For example, you can easily access Fenway Park, MGM Music Hall at Fenway, and Kenmore Square, which has plenty of shops and restaurants. The Back Bay area also has a Walk Score of 97, making it one of Boston’s most walkable neighborhoods and an awesome option if you don’t have a car.
5. Watertown West End
Average studio rent: $2,297
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,817
Apartments for rent in Watertown West End
Watertown West End is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live outside of Boston’s city center. The area has plenty of museums like Gore Place and the nearby Lyman Estate. It’s also close to the city of Watertown and Waltham, making it a more suburban neighborhood to rent in.
6. Oak Square
Average studio rent: $2,300
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,822
Apartments for rent in Oak Square
Next up is Oak Square, the sixth-most affordable neighborhood in Boston. Oak Square is a charming area with tree-lined streets and historic buildings. This area also has plenty of parks, restaurants, and attractions, so you’ll have lots to explore. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Gallagher Park or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants along Washington Street. There’s something for everyone living in Oak Square.
7. Fenway – Kenmore – Audubon Circle – Longwood
Average studio rent: $2,400
Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,000
Apartments for rent in Fenway – Kenmore – Audubon Circle – Longwood
Nestled west of downtown, Fenway – Kenmore – Audubon Circle – Longwood is the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in Boston. This neighborhood has a friendly atmosphere and is super walkable, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along Beacon Street, such as Eastern Standard and Cafe Landwer. You can also check out some of the neighborhood’s green spaces, like the Back Bay Fens and the James P. Kelleher Rose Garden.
8. Fenway
Average studio rent: $2,400
Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,000
Apartments for rent in Fenway
Fenway takes the eighth spot on our list of most affordable neighborhoods in Boston and is most well-known as the home of Fenway Park. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $780 less than the city’s average, making Fenway a great option to consider. Make sure to catch a Boston Red Sox game, explore the neighborhood on a weekend or game day, and see a concert at Citizens House of Blues Boston. You can also easily explore other neighborhoods, as there are multiple bus lines and light rail routes running through the area.
9. North End
Average studio rent: $2,730
Average 1-bedroom rent: $3,075
Apartments for rent in North End
A well-known Boston neighborhood, North End is the final spot on our list of affordable neighborhoods in Boston. North End is home to Paul Revere House and Old North Church, meaning there’s plenty to do throughout the week. You’ll find countless historic buildings in North End, so make sure to explore the area’s charm. If you need to commute to work, there are many options, as the Haymarket subway station is nearby.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a neighborhood has average studio and 1-bedroom rent prices under the city’s average. Average rental data from Rent.com on March 18, 2024.