Boston · Budget
Boston apartments under $2,500/month
Under $2,500 unlocks 1-beds in premium buildings or 2-beds in mid-tier areas. Lots of options at this budget for international students. The neighborhoods below in Boston fit this budget.
Best neighborhoods under $2,500/month in Boston
Cambridge
Cambridge is home to Harvard and MIT. Harvard Square, Central Square, and Kendall Square are all packed with international graduate students.
$1,700 – $5,500/mo
Somerville
Somerville (Davis, Porter, Union Square) is the cheaper Cambridge-adjacent option for Harvard and MIT grad students. Heavy student population, Tufts is in Davis.
$1,500 – $3,800/mo
Allston
Allston is Boston's de facto student housing district, huge BU off-campus population, plus Harvard grad students who want cheaper rent. Vibrant student community.
$1,100 – $2,800/mo
Brookline
Brookline is the upscale option west of BU, great schools, the Green Line all along Beacon Street, and quieter than Allston. Popular with MBA and PhD students.
$1,700 – $4,500/mo
Fenway / Kenmore
Fenway / Kenmore is sandwiched between BU and Northeastern. Modern high-rises, walkable to two campuses, and steps from Fenway Park.
$1,900 – $4,200/mo
Mission Hill
Mission Hill is the cheaper Northeastern option, just behind campus. Heavy Northeastern grad student population, especially in master's programs.
$1,300 – $3,000/mo
Back Bay
Back Bay is upscale Boston, brownstones, Newbury Street, the Prudential Center. A premium choice for grad students who want central + commuter-friendly.
$2,200 – $5,500/mo
Central Square
Central Square sits between MIT and Harvard on the Red Line, popular with international PhD and grad students for the price + walkability.
$1,600 – $4,000/mo
Universities in Boston
Frequently asked questions
Can I really find apartments under $2,500/month in Boston?
Yes, 8 of our covered Boston neighborhoods have units under $2,500/month, especially Cambridge, Somerville, Allston.
Will I need a roommate to stay under $2,500/month in Boston?
Often yes, sharing a 2-bed is the most reliable way to stay under $2,500/month in Boston without sacrificing safety or commute.