What is the Average Rent in Boston?

This post, "What is the Average Rent in Boston, MA?" was originally published on the Apartments.com Renterverse on October 12, 2022. It was updated on February 1, 2023 to reflect current rent prices.

As of February 2023, the average apartment rent in Boston, MA is $2,682 for a studio, $3,215 for one bedroom, $4,105 for two bedrooms, and $5,517 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Boston has increased by 1.0% in the past year. 

With a vibrant, historic background, Boston has something to offer everyone. Nestled along Massachusetts Bay, residents love the top-notch culinary scene and beautiful water views. You’ll find plenty of historic landmarks throughout the city, from Plymouth Rock to Freedom Trail. There’s a piece of American history everywhere you look. Boston's must-visits include Fenway Park, the New England Aquarium, and the Museum of Science. Boston offers an unprecedented atmosphere filled with rich history and a love for craft beer. There’s a neighborhood ideal for any renter!

Wondering if you can afford to live in Boston? The rent affordability calculator can help you determine your budget.

BEACON HILL 

Residing on the coast of the Charles River, Beacon Hill is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the country. Residents love the historic architecture, antique shops, and fine eating, along with a 50-acre historic park that offers Hatch Park Memorial, a riverside park amphitheater with lawn seating. Along with historic homes, like the Nichols House Museum, and the Museum of African American History, Beacon Hill houses the original Cheers, the iconic pub from the hit sitcom. Even though the rent can be expensive, renters vouch that the river views, city parks, and Downtown Boston location are worth it! 

NORTH END 

If you’re in search of a neighborhood that still has the iconic historic background Boston offers but with fewer tourists, look no further than the North End! Once home to revolutionary icons such as Paul Revere, the neighborhood now draws in new residents. Locals step out of their apartments for thin-crust pizza and locally brewed Samuel Adams beer at Benevento’s Brick Oven Pizza and Kitchen. Residents who are looking for a break from Italian food rave about Billy Tse’s for Chinese. If you’re looking for a more affordable and family-friendly neighborhood, check out Jamacia Plain. 

JAMAICA PLAIN 

Known for being one of Boston’s greenest and most diverse neighborhoods, Jamacia Plain is surrounded by the city’s “Emerald Necklace” of parks, drawing in families from all over Boston. Here, residents enjoy the dining and entertainment on Centre Street in the middle and northern areas of the neighborhood. There are plenty of activities for the whole family, such as the Franklin Park Zoo and Lower Neponset River Trail. The rail service connects Jamacia Plain to the rest of the Boston area, with several stops along the eastern side of the neighborhood. 

SOUTH END 

Boston’s South end has something to offer everyone, such as fantastic shops, restaurants, and the Victorian elegance of Columbus Avenue. Residents enjoy the walkable, nature-filled neighborhood with several parks, along with some of the best restaurants in Boston. If you choose to rent an apartment in the South End, you’ll enjoy walking past historic housing and buildings that include everything from trendy boutiques to art galleries to cafes. You’ll also discover South End’s popularity among artists, giving the neighborhood a modern yet historical feel. 

FENWAY 

There is no other neighborhood in Boston quite like Fenway. With tons of students, colleges, and the famous Fenway Park, you can always be sure there’s something to do. You can also find an abundance of tree-filled parks since Fenway is a part of the “Emerald Necklace.” Renters in this neighborhood have easy access to universities like Berklee School of Music, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Northeastern University. Of course, the star of Fenway is Fenway Park, the oldest park in the MLB and home of the Boston Red Sox. If you’re looking for a quieter neighborhood, Jamaica Plain or the South End are great choices. 

Whether you’re a history lover, a sports fan, an academic, or a foodie, Boston is a one-of-a-kind location with a wealth of history and culture. Find your apartment in Boston now and you’ll soon be enjoying all this city has to offer.

Apartment rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s February 2023 Boston Market Report.

Originally published October 12, 2022.

Updated on February 1, 2023 to reflect current rent prices.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi! I’m Helen Wells, the Content Writer Intern here at Apartments.com. In my spare time, you can find me either reading a novel, watching the latest TV drama, or hanging out with my friends. Follow me on Twitter at @hawells21.