As the city continues to grow, finding the cheapest neighborhoods in Boston remains a top priority for renters looking to balance cost and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time renter, or just looking to increase your savings, exploring apartments in Boston can help you find a community that fits your lifestyle and budget.
In this Rent. article, we’ll explore some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Boston, complete with neighborhood highlights and key details to help you find your perfect home.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Boston and what you can expect to pay for a one-bedroom apartment in each area.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-bedroom rent |
| Harbor View – Orient Heights | $1,100 |
| Jeffries Point | $1,250 |
| Telegraph Hill | $1,550 |
| City Point | $1,700 |
| Back Bay West | $1,850 |
| Columbus Park – Andrew Square | $2,100 |
| Eagle Hill | $2,200 |
| Oak Square | $2,275 |
| Fort Hill | $2,300 |
1. Harbor View – Orient Heights
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,100
Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,810
Neighborhood highlights: Waterfront views, Blue Line access
Harbor View – Orient Heights is one of the more affordable waterfront neighborhoods in Boston. The area has incredible views of the harbor and easy access to outdoor spaces. If you love fresh seafood, you’re just minutes from local staples like Belle Isle Seafood, a casual spot known for its overflowing lobster rolls. The neighborhood has a more relaxed feel compared to the busier parts of East Boston. However, it’s still well-connected with the Orient Heights Station on the Blue Line making it easy to get downtown in about 15 minutes.
2. Jeffries Point
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,250
Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,040
Neighborhood highlights: Piers Park, local seafood spots, arts scene
Jeffries Point is perfect for renters who want easy access to downtown without the steep rents of the North End. The East Boston Greenway runs right through the neighborhood, making it a great spot for runners and cyclists. The area has a mix of historic row houses and new apartment developments, so there are plenty of rental options. You’ll also find great local spots like Downeast Cider House, where you can sip cider right by the waterfront.
3. Telegraph Hill
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,550
Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,550
Neighborhood highlights: Dorchester Heights views, historic charm, cozy cafes
Telegraph Hill is tucked into South Boston and has some of the best views in the city, thanks to its elevated position. It’s home to Thomas Park, a peaceful green space that overlooks the city and serves as a quiet escape from the busier streets below. While South Boston is known for its Irish pubs and sports bars, you’ll also find hidden gems like American Provisions. Public transit is decent, with MBTA buses running frequently and the Red Line at Broadway Station just a short walk away.
4. City Point
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,700
Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,300
Neighborhood highlights: Castle Island, waterfront parks, walkable streets
City Point is a quieter, more residential part of South Boston. You’re just steps from Castle Island, a favorite local spot for walking, running, or grabbing a burger at Sullivan’s. The neighborhood has both historic homes and newer apartments, offering a variety of rental options at lower prices than downtown. While it doesn’t have as many nightlife options as other parts of Southie, it makes up for it with its access to the beach, scenic waterfront paths, and a strong community feel.
5. Back Bay West
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,850
Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,620
Neighborhood highlights: Brownstone-lined streets, boutique shopping, Charles River access
Back Bay West gives you the classic brownstone-lined streets of Back Bay without the sky-high rents. This area is just west of the Prudential Center. This means you’re within walking distance of Newbury Street’s shops, the Charles River Esplanade, and Copley Square. Public transit is a huge perk—both the Green and Orange Lines are easily accessible, and major bus routes run through the area. This makes the area ideal for renters who want to live in a central location without needing a car.
6. Columbus Park – Andrew Square
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,100
Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,650
Neighborhood highlights: Red Line access, new development, local eateries
Columbus Park – Andrew Square is great for renters looking for affordability with easy access to downtown. The Red Line’s Andrew Station is right in the heart of the area, making commuting a breeze. The neighborhood is known for its mix of older triple-deckers and newer apartment buildings, giving renters a variety of options. You’ll find solid local spots like Dorchester Brewing Company, a great place to grab a beer with friends, and the Polish-American Club, a neighborhood institution.
7. Eagle Hill
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,200
Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,350
Neighborhood highlights: Historic architecture, small bakeries, community gardens
The historic row houses and tree-lined streets give Eagle Hill a lot of character. The area is also home to some of the best Salvadoran and Colombian restaurants in the city—La Hacienda on Meridian Street is a must-visit. While it’s a bit more residential, you’re still close to the Blue Line at Airport Station, which gets you downtown in under 10 minutes. With a Walk Score of 88, the neighborhood is highly walkable, and the waterfront views from the Mary Ellen Welch Greenway make it feel like a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the city.
8. Oak Square
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,275
Average 2-bedroom rent: $2,750
Neighborhood highlights: Brighton Center access, quiet streets, local pubs
Oak Square in Brighton has a mix of older apartments, renovated condos, and classic Boston triple-deckers, often at lower rents than nearby Allston or Fenway. You’re also close to some great local spots, like Cafenation, a cozy café with excellent coffee and breakfast sandwiches. The neighborhood is well-served by MBTA buses, making it easy to get to Harvard Square, Kenmore, or downtown without a car.
9. Fort Hill
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,300
Average 2-bedroom rent: $3,200
Neighborhood highlights: Historic sites, green spaces
Fort Hill is part of Roxbury, but it has its own distinct feel, with winding streets, beautiful green spaces, and great city views from Highland Park. Renters here get a good balance of affordability and location—downtown is just a short Orange Line ride away from Roxbury Crossing Station. The neighborhood has a growing food and café scene, with places like Dudley Café, which serves excellent coffee and sandwiches in a laid-back setting. If you’re looking for an affordable, historic neighborhood with easy city access, Fort Hill is worth checking out.
Methodology: All neighborhoods listed are based on Boston’s Rental Market Trends on Rent.com. Average rental data and annual change data are sourced from February 2025.
