Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Boston, MA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Boston are St Elizabeth's, Commonwealth, and Harbor View-Orient Heights. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Boston, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of April 29, 2025, the average rent in Boston is $3,483, which is 0.7% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.

St Elizabeth's

Average Rent

$2,569/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.5%

TransitScore® Rating

69/100

Units Available

804 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Boston, St Elizabeth's might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,569, while the city’s average stands at $3,483. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.5%. St Elizabeth's is near Chiswick Road Station, Harvard University, and Chestnut Hill Avenue Station.

Commonwealth

Average Rent

$2,628/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.5%

TransitScore® Rating

71/100

Units Available

1,292 Rentals

Commonwealth is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Commonwealth is $2,628 while the city average is $3,483. This is a -0.5% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Chiswick Road Station, General Edward Lawrence Logan International, and Boston University. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 91.

Harbor View-Orient Heights

Average Rent

$2,756/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

6.2%

TransitScore® Rating

61/100

Units Available

229 Rentals

Harbor View-Orient Heights boasts stunning harbor vistas and budget-friendly apartments, perfect for those looking to enjoy coastal living. Located near the subway’s Blue Line, commuting into the heart of Boston is straightforward and quick. The neighborhood's parks and beachside attractions are ideal for relaxation.

Oak Square

Average Rent

$2,861/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.5%

TransitScore® Rating

58/100

Units Available

283 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Boston neighborhood on a budget, check out Oak Square. The average rent is $2,861, compared to the city average of $3,483. Rent prices have increased by 1.5%. Oak Square is convenient to Washington Street, Washington Street Plaza, and Sutherland Street Station. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 84.

Central Maverick Square-Paris St

Average Rent

$2,952/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.3%

TransitScore® Rating

80/100

Units Available

214 Rentals

Central Maverick Square-Paris St in East Boston promises affordable living with a touch of seaside charm. Close to Boston Logan International Airport and Downtown Boston, it offers excellent accessibility without the high costs. Waterfront views at Condor Street Urban Wild and locally owned restaurants make this area a hidden gem.

Beacon Hill

Average Rent

$3,035/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.4%

TransitScore® Rating

39/100

Units Available

287 Rentals

Beacon Hill, known for its picturesque cobblestone streets and historical significance, offers rental options that balance affordability and elegance. Nestled near the Boston Common park and the Massachusetts State House, it delivers a charming residential experience. Public transport links make exploring the city hassle-free.

Jamaica Hills-Pond

Average Rent

$3,089/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.8%

TransitScore® Rating

68/100

Units Available

228 Rentals

Jamaica Hills-Pond is an affordable neighborhood in Boston with an average rent price of $3,089. Compare this to the city average of $3,483. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 3.8%. Jamaica Hills-Pond provides easy access to MassArt, Simmons College, and The Village At Chestnut Hill. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 83.

Kenmore

Average Rent

$3,288/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.5%

TransitScore® Rating

85/100

Units Available

222 Rentals

Kenmore is a dynamic area that combines the excitement of Fenway Park and the tranquility of the Charles River. Renting in Kenmore means enjoying lower prices while staying connected to Boston University and renowned eateries. Public transit options ensure seamless travel throughout the city.

North End Boston

Average Rent

$3,349/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.4%

TransitScore® Rating

100/100

Units Available

239 Rentals

North End Boston, famed for its rich Italian heritage, offers an affordable slice of history close to downtown. Narrow streets filled with authentic bakeries and restaurants create a unique ambiance. Residents benefit from easy access to the waterfront and public transit.

Fenway

Average Rent

$3,429/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.3%

TransitScore® Rating

96/100

Units Available

1,562 Rentals

Fenway neighborhood provides cost-effective housing near the iconic Fenway Park and the scenic Emerald Necklace park system. Its vibrant arts scene and numerous educational institutions make Fenway a great choice for diverse experiences. The area's connectivity via the Green Line ensures efficient commuting.

Ready to make your move to Boston? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!

Methodology

Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.

We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.