Boston harbor

Where to Live in Boston for $3,000

Discover your artistic, academic side in Boston.

Boston is a vibrant and historic city that offers a great quality of life for apartment renters. The city is known for its rich culture, world-class universities and thriving economy, making it an attractive destination for students and young professionals. The city is home to a diverse population, and its neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options, ranging from modern apartments to historic brownstones.

One of the advantages of living in Boston as an apartment renter is the city’s excellent public transportation system, which includes subway trains, buses and commuter rail lines. This makes it easy to get around the city and explore all that Boston has to offer, including its famous landmarks, museums and cultural events.

Additionally, Boston is a walkable city, with many neighborhoods offering easy access to shops, restaurants and other amenities. While Boston is an expensive place to live, there are many reasonably priced apartment options available, and the city offers a high quality of life for those who choose to call it home.

What is the average price of rent in Boston?

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Boston is around $2,500 per month, while the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around $3,200 per month. It’s worth noting that these prices can vary depending on the location and the amenities of the apartment, and they can change over time due to market conditions and other factors.

Where to live in Boston for $3,000

Between the access to public transportation, the city vibe and the perfect blend of sports and academia, renters of all interests can expect to make a home out of Boston. We’ve rounded up our top picks for Boston apartments at or under the $3,000 price tag, without sacrificing any amenities.

1. The Parkside Luxury Apartments

Source: Rent. / The Parkside Luxury Apartments

For $1,950, you can get a 223-square-foot studio at The Parkside Luxury Apartments. You have two layouts to choose from for this price but the apartment certainly doesn’t lack the luxury details. Each apartment has hardwood floors, crown molding and granite countertop finishes.

The Parkside Luxury Apartments sits in the popular neighborhood of Fenway, known for hosting the baseball team the Red Sox. This well-known neighborhood adds curb appeal to the apartment and promises luxury inside as well as outside on the block.

2. The Residences at Rivers Edge

Source: Rent. / The Residences at Rivers Edge

Your social life will flourish in the community-building-centric apartment. The Residences at Rivers Edge offer studio apartments for $2,982 which feature dark hardwood finishes and luxurious balconies for outdoor entertaining. Beyond the apartment, residents are assured plenty of common areas to utilize for work and play.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Wellington, this 222-unit community offers an ideal location for Bostonians of all ages to enjoy a diverse range of amenities and convenient access to the city’s attractions. With its modern design and welcoming atmosphere, residents can experience the perfect blend of comfort and urban living here.

3. The Towers at Longfellow

Source: Rent. / The Towers at Longfellow

Soak in the stunning sights and sounds of Boston on the apartment balconies at The Towers at Longfellow where residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Charles River. Whether it’s sipping morning coffee or unwinding with an evening cocktail, these balconies provide an oasis to truly experience relaxation.

This West End property is perfect for residents trying to stay under the $3,000 price tag, with studios starting at $2,735, allowing renters to find affordable luxury in the heart of Boston. Alongside the affordable pricing, the unique amenities offered by this property, such as a rooftop pool and fitness center elevate the renting experience.

4. The Emery at Overlook Ridge

Source: Rent. / The Emery at Overlook Ridge

Host your next book club or wine night around the communal firepit at The Emery at Overlook Ridge. One-bedroom apartments start at $2,479 for 711 square feet, top-of-the-line appliances, hardwood finishes and smart-lock technology. Whether it’s through the in-apartment design or building amenities, residents enjoy both indoor and outdoor spaces designed for comfort and entertainment.

Sat in West Revere, this complex is ideal for any renter no matter their preferences, offering a diverse range of studio and one-bedroom floor plans to cater to individual needs, whether one seeks a spacious apartment with scenic views or a cozy unit with a luxury feel. With its prime location and versatile options, this complex provides a welcoming community that suits the diverse tastes and lifestyles of its residents.

5. One Canal Apartment Homes

Source: Rent. / One Canal Apartment Homes

Waking up every day to the luxurious view of the West End neighborhood is a deluxe amenity in itself. For the price of $2,917, renters can live in a cozy studio apartment surrounded by amenities such as a state-of-the-art fitness center and a rooftop terrace and pool ensuring that the investment is worthwhile and provides an ideal city lifestyle.

One Canal Apartment Homes, which holds 320 units, is a renovated and modern apartment complex with a mix of traditional amenities and unique apartment features, such as spacious walk-in closets and gourmet kitchens. With a blend of crisp white and dark hardwood finishes, the apartments create a stylish and comfortable living environment for its residents.

6. Avalon Brighton

Source: Rent. / Avalon Brighton

If clean and modern is your desired apartment aesthetic, look no further than Avalon Brighton. With its prime location in the neighborhood of St. Elizabeth’s, near bustling shopping centers and convenient access to public transportation, Avalon Brighton offers both style and convenience for those seeking a contemporary urban living experience.

Studio apartments, starting at $2,930, feature top-of-the-line appliances, quartz countertops and stylish finishes, creating a chic and sophisticated atmosphere under the $3,000 price tag. The worthwhile experience extends beyond the apartment through the unique amenities like an on-site dog park and indoor firepit.

7. Troy Boston

Source: Rent. / Troy Boston

Natural light is the star of the show in the apartments at Troy Boston, where residents are immersed in the sights and sounds of the vibrant South End neighborhood through the expansive windows and balconies. Residents also enjoy a range of amenities including a rooftop pool, fitness center and communal spaces which further enhance their living experience.

Studios, which start at $2,950, span over a 425 square-foot space that while small, maximizes functionality and provides residents with a comfortable living environment, making efficient use of every square foot. They are worthy of a spot on our list due to their modern finishes, including sleek appliances, high-quality fixtures and ample storage solutions, making the small space feel larger.

8. Hub 25

Source: Rent. / Hub 25

Joining a community when you rent an apartment is important and the amenities at Hub 25 offer that. From the social lounge and outdoor grilling areas to the fitness center and dedicated co-working spaces, residents have ample opportunities to socialize, unwind and engage in activities that create an inclusive living environment.

This Columbia Point property has studios starting at $2,457 and one bedroom starting at $2,712, offering residents a range of affordable options under the $3,000 budget. This ensures any resident can find their ideal living space without compromising on quality or location.

9. Piano Craft Guild

Source: Rent. / Piano Craft Guild

Renter creativity has the perfect canvas in the apartments at Piano Craft Guild. The stunning lofted apartments, which start at $2,900, have a mix of rustic brick and modern wood finishes that provide a unique backdrop for residents to personalize their living spaces and express their individual style. The floor-to-ceiling window details overlook the neighborhood of South End, adding to the overall apartment value.

The unique vibe of these lofts continues into the common spaces through the amenities like the outdoor bocce ball area, indoor bike storage rack and communal garden. These areas foster a sense of community and provide residents with opportunities to relax, socialize and engage with fellow renters.

10. Emerson Place

Source: Rent. / Emerson Place

At first glance, the outdoor pool area at Emerson Place mimics a luxury hotel or outdoor spa, creating an oasis where residents can unwind and soak up the sun. For the starting price of $2,860 for a studio apartment, renters not only get a luxury apartment but also gain access to stunning communal amenities.

Emerson Place, which sits in the neighborhood of West End, offers residents the perfect balance of savvy spending and convenience, with its close proximity to restaurants, shopping destinations and cultural attractions. Emerson Place provides a sophisticated and welcoming home for those seeking a vibrant urban lifestyle in the heart of Boston for under the price of $3,000.

Find your perfect apartment for under $3,000

Boston offers a variety of exceptional apartments for those seeking stylish and comfortable living spaces without breaking the bank. These apartments not only provide affordable luxury but also have desirable amenities, such as rooftop pools, fitness centers and communal spaces, fostering a strong sense of community and enhancing the overall living experience.

With their prime locations and modern designs, these apartments present the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibrant and enriching lifestyle that Boston has to offer, all within a reasonable budget. Start your apartment journey today!

Featured Image Source: Rent. / One Canal Apartment Homes

Methodology

Rent prices are based on an average from Rent.’s available rental property inventory as of April 2023. The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

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