Boston, Massachusetts - the city for doers and dreamers, movers and believers, and people of all walks of life seeking the fresh energy of a coastal town. For those in search of a city that balances work, recreation, and relaxation, Boston is an ideal candidate. Home of Fenway Park (did somebody say Babe Ruth?), bustling bars and one-dollar-oysters at happy hour, Boston knows how to have a good time. With its charming red brick avenues and glistening crystal-clear bays, it looks good doing it. When you add in art museums galore and a casual smattering of ivy league institutions, this city’s got the perfect combination of beauty and brains.
It’s not a secret that big city living can come with an even bigger price tag. The breathtaking infrastructure, rich social life, and ever-present entertainment come at a cost – your housing price. While finding an apartment close to all the excitement can be pricey, it is possible to work, play, and rent without burning a hole in your pocket. We’ve compiled a list of the five most affordable neighborhoods in Boston so you can have your cream pie and eat it too.
Five cheap neighborhoods in Boston in 2023 are:
Allston-Brighton
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Average 1BR Rent in Boston: $3,329
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Average 1BR Rent in Allston-Brighton: $2,400
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Average Home Value in Allston-Brighton: $604,000
Neighborhood number one is Allston-Brighton, a lively post-grad dream. Just around the corner from Boston College, Allston is the perfect spot for recent graduates and young professionals looking to start their new lives on a budget. With beautifully diverse architecture ranging from Victorian homes to renovated condos, this location offers cheap rent without compromising its residents’ standard of living.
Things to do in Allston-Brighton
Outside of affordable housing, Allston provides a wealth of entertainment opportunities. Music enthusiasts can walk just a quarter mile to check out live artists at Brighton Music Hall. Foodies enjoy sampling new cuisine, coffees, and pastries at a wide selection of local restaurants, and night owls find that Allston’s energy is electric at all hours of the day.
To top it all off, Allston’s access to public transit allows adventure to continue outside of the neighborhood. The B branch of the Boston Green Line runs conveniently through Commonwealth, and the Commuter Rail stops at Boston Landing. Allston offers a budget-conscious lifestyle whether you choose to stay in or go out.
East Boston
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Average 1BR Rent in Boston: $3,329
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Average 1BR Rent in East Boston: $2,697
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Average Home Value in East Boston: $612,000
East Boston, affectionately deemed “Eastie” by locals, is the epitome of classic Boston living. Its shining glass skyline and crystalline waterfront could be a page taken straight out of a travel brochure. This neighborhood’s hot market and proximity to downtown make it a fan favorite for those looking to live like a city dweller without paying the price.
Things to do in East Boston
Hop over to the longstanding Downeast Cider House to enjoy a local brew or take a short drive to the New England Aquarium for a Saturday afternoon with the kids. If you’re looking for a break from the city, take a breath of fresh air at one of the many green spaces available in East Boston. Stroll the shore at Constitution Beach or take in the flora and fauna at Belle Island Marsh. Test out your sailing skills with lessons at Piers Park and finish the day with a picnic on the lawn.
With access to the Blue and Silver line, as well as a short commute to Logan International Airport, East Boston offers all the convenience you need at a budget-friendly price.
Dorchester
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Average 1BR Rent in Boston: $3,329
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Average 1BR Rent in Dorchester: $2,221
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Average Home Value in Dorchester: $670,000
Welcome to Dorchester, the melting pot of Boston. With over 122,000 residents, this neighborhood is one of the largest and most diverse in the city, not to mention one of the most affordable. A stroll down Dorchester Avenue reveals just how multicultural the community is – you'll find a variety of restaurants with global cuisine, as well as a mix of historic and cultural architecture lining the street.
Things to do in Dorchester
Dorchester is a standing celebration of Boston’s history - take a step back in time by visiting the Commonwealth Museum. If you find yourself needing a breath of fresh air, Dorchester’s Franklin Park offers walking trails, an 18-hole golf course, and a full zoo.
The neighborhood has several stops along the Red Line and Commuter Rails, providing easy transportation out to work or into the city for weekend errands.
Roslindale
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Average 1BR Rent in Boston: $3,329
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Average 1BR Rent in Roslindale: $2,424
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Average Home Value in Roslindale: $660,000
Though it’s just a half hour away from skyscrapers and city traffic, Roslindale feels like a step into suburbia. Rozzie, as it’s called, moves at a slower pace than Boston proper but is beloved by the community for its residential atmosphere and mix of ages and lifestyles. With vast lawns and sprawling greenery, this neighborhood has earned itself the nickname “The Garden City” and might just pass as the countryside if it weren’t for numerous hot spots, restaurants, and must-see attractions.
Things to do in Roslindale
Take a tour through Roslindale’s 265-acre park, Arnolds Arboretum, and see the oldest public tree garden in the country. Sip like a local at Distraction Brewing Co., then head over to Washington Street for artisan-style pizza and classic Mexican pupusas. Finally, make a lap through the Roslindale Farmers Market every Saturday for a taste of what local vendors have to offer.
Despite its off-the-grid vibes, Rozzie is met with the Commuter Rail at various stops, offering city-level convenience at a more reasonable price.
Hyde Park
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Average 1BR Rent in Boston: $3,329
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Average 1BR Rent in Hyde Park: $2,045
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Average Home Value in Hyde Park: $574,000
Locals describe Hyde Park as “a small town in the city.” Just eight miles south of downtown Boston, this neighborhood offers a welcome respite from the bustle of city life, as well as the benefit of cheaper small-town rent. The quiet streets, green backyards, and suburban vibes are perfect for families looking for open space at an affordable price.
Things to do in Hyde Park
Hyde Park does not boast fine dining and pristine shopping malls like other neighborhoods in the city; however, local restaurants and outdoor meeting spots add to the community-centered atmosphere and unique personality of this neighborhood.
Take a quick ride on the Commuter Rail to explore the excitement of Downtown Boston, then head back for a quiet afternoon by the pond at Stony Brook Reservation.
Moving Soon?
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search to a price range that works for you.
No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s December 2023 reports
