Boston · Budget
Boston apartments under $1,500/month
If you're looking under $1,500 per month, you're looking at studios in mid-tier neighborhoods, sharing 2-beds, or living slightly farther from campus. The neighborhoods below in Boston fit this budget.
Best neighborhoods under $1,500/month in Boston
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
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
Universities in Boston
Frequently asked questions
Can I really find apartments under $1,500/month in Boston?
Yes — 3 of our covered Boston neighborhoods have units under $1,500/month, especially Somerville, Allston, Mission Hill.
Will I need a roommate to stay under $1,500/month in Boston?
Often yes — sharing a 2-bed is the most reliable way to stay under $1,500/month in Boston without sacrificing safety or commute.