Moving to Boston for your studies? As the ‘Athens of America’, there are few cities in the world better for pursuing an education! With Student.com, you can browse a huge range of student housing in Boston and find the perfect base for your academic endeavors.

Whether you’re looking for a shared living space or private apartment, we have over 100 properties listed in Boston at different price points – many of which are within walking distance of the city’s most popular universities and colleges.

Universities in Boston

With over fifty colleges and universities in the metropolitan city and surrounding areas – including some of the most prestigious institutions in the world – there’s no shortage of options for universities in Boston.

Harvard University

Founded in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest university in the US and one of the world’s most reputable universities. The Ivy League school offers a wide range of world-leading programs but is arguably best known for its courses in law, business and public health.

The main campus is located in Cambridge, just across the Charles River from Boston about a 20-minute subway ride away. Direct transport links mean that many students seeking off-campus accommodation opt for student housing in Boston rather than Cambridge.

Around 20,000 students are enrolled at the university, including roughly 5,000 international students. The 209-acre main campus is known for its scenic beauty and with over 400 clubs and academic societies there’s plenty to keep students occupied.

Have your sights set on Harvard? Start browsing our range of off-campus housing near Harvard University.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Within walking distance of Harvard, on the north bank of Charles River, lies Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) – another highly prestigious university with world-class programs in engineering, mathematics, computer science and physical sciences.

The university is known for its research output, with the 168-acre campus dotted with laboratories and research centers. It also fosters a close-knit community with plenty of opportunities for networking and collaborative learning.

International students make up approximately 30% of the student body, which numbers around 11,000 students in total. MIT’s close proximity to downtown Boston means students have a range of options for off-campus housing.

Interested in studying at the university? Check out our list of student apartments near MIT.

Boston University

If you’re looking for a larger school for your studies, Boston University (BU) is an excellent option. With over 300 courses on offer, BU is one of the largest private universities in the county and welcomes students from all parts of the world on all possible career paths.

The main campus, nestled on the south bank of the Charles River, is perfectly integrated within the city of Boston and the opportunities are endless as you can mix and match courses to discover where your true passion lies.

Sounds like somewhere you’d like to study? Explore our different student housing options near Boston University.

Northeastern University

Another major private university, Northeastern University has campuses dotted around the US, UK and Canada, but its main campus is based in Boston’s sprawling Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood.

The university offers a wide range of study programs, with standout courses in engineering, computer science and psychology. It has a strong focus on experiential learning, giving students the opportunity to gain practical experience during their studies.

Ready to enroll at the university? Discover your dream home with our selection of off-campus housing near Northeastern University.

Other universities

If you aren’t interested in the hustle and bustle of downtown Boston, there are great options further afield. Tufts University is a leading private university with a beautiful campus and strong research focus. The number one major is International Relations, which makes it an excellent candidate for students globally.

Other impressive schools in the metropolitan area include Suffolk University and Emerson College, which are located in the heart of downtown Boston. Both schools have fantastic performing arts programs, alongside other impressive course options.

Things to do in Boston

A sprawling city with rich history, delectable food and world-famous sporting events, there’s no shortage of things for students to do in Boston. Whether it’s wandering around museums, sampling international cuisines or going on a big night out, the city has something for everyone.

Arts & culture

Boston is a major hub for arts and culture, with the city boasting spectacular art galleries, theatres and museums. For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Fine Arts and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum are two must-visit attractions with captivating collections from around the world.

Boston is also home to Boston Symphony Orchestra – widely recognized as one of the world’s finest orchestras – and iconic venues like the Wang Theatre where you can catch everything from dance performances to Broadway shows.

History buffs can get acquainted with the city by walking the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that connects 16 historically significant sites including Paul Revere’s House and Old North Church.

Sports

Sports are highly celebrated in Boston with Bostonians some of the most passionate fans in the US. For a taste of the city’s sports culture, head to the iconic Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, for a baseball game.

Another popular venue is TD Garden, which plays host to the NBA’s Boston Celtics and NHL’s Boston Bruins. Other major events in the sporting calendar are the annual Head of the Charles Regatta rowing race and the Boston Marathon.

Food & drink

Boston’s food scene combines New England classics with international flavors. Don’t miss the city’s iconic lobster rolls or clam chowder in neighborhoods like the North End — Boston’s Little Italy — where you’ll find acclaimed Italian eateries and bakeries.

Another highlight is Boston’s Chinatown, which is the third largest of its kind in the US. Head to Bubor Cha Cha or one of the countless Chinese restaurants for some of the best dim sum you’ve ever likely to enjoy.

Elsewhere, the Seaport District offers trendy waterfront dining, while breweries like Harpoon Brewery and Sam Adams deliver a taste of Boston’s famous craft beer scene.

Nightlife

Boston’s nightlife is varied and vibrant, with options ranging from casual pubs and comedy clubs to sophisticated rooftop bars and bustling nightclubs. The downtown area is packed with venues, which makes for easy bar-hopping or a big night out.

Away from the center, the popular student area of Allston-Brighton offers a variety of dive bars and small music venues where you can catch local bands or DJ sets. If sports are your thing, Fenway-Kenmore has a huge range or sports bars to catch a game.

Outdoors

With plenty of green space and walking routes along the waterfront, Boston is great for outdoor activities. The Charles River Esplanade is ideal for jogging, cycling and kayaking, and offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline.

Boston Common – the oldest public park in the US – is a green oasis in the heart of the city and the perfect spot for a stroll or picnic. On days off, students can take the short ferry ride to Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park to enjoy its historic lighthouse and hiking trails.

Best Boston neighborhoods for students

Living in Boston as a student can be an incredible experience, as it is a true melting pot of culture. No matter where you live in this vibrant city, each neighborhood will have something unique for you to savor.

Fenway-Kenmore

Fenway-Kenmore, situated southwest of downtown Boston, is one of the city’s main student hubs. Most famously known as the home of the Boston Redsox, the neighborhood is also where Boston University and Northeastern University are both based.

There are plenty of trendy restaurants concentrated around Kenmore Square, while clubs and sports bars line Lansdowne Street just outside Fenway Park. Despite its popularity, the neighborhood is generally considered one of the more affordable areas for student housing in Boston.

Back Bay

Neighboring Fenway-Kenmore to the east, Back Bay is another popular student area known for its picturesque streets and historic brownstone buildings. It’s one of the city’s commercial hubs, with the Prudential Center and Copley Place major draws for shoppers.

As a relatively upscale neighborhood, Back Bay is on the more expensive side when it comes to student apartments in Boston – however it’s not uncommon to find students living in the area, particularly in shared accommodation.

Allston-Brighton

Allston-Brighton is a sprawling neighborhood and major student hub located in western Boston. Harvard University and Boston University are both easily accessible by public transport, with many students from these schools living in and visiting the area.

The neighborhood serves its student population well with plenty of affordable pubs, music venues and vintage shops. Rental costs for student housing can also be considerably lower than in more central areas of the city.

Boston cost of living

The cost of living for students in Boston is generally quite high compared to other cities in the US, however it can be more affordable than other global student cities like London and Paris.

Besides tuition costs, rent constitutes the main expense, with most student apartments in Boston ranging from $1,500–$2,000 per month. Cheaper options are available when living with roommates and venturing further away from downtown in areas like Allston-Brighton.

Free things to do in Boston

For savvy students looking to minimize living costs, Boston has a variety of free activities. With a valid ID card, students get free admission to some of the city’s top attractions, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Institute of Contemporary Arts.

Elsewhere, Boston Public Library offers free guided tours of its central library at Copley Square, while the three museums that constitute Harvard Art Museums are also free and open to the public.

Boston student discounts

Along with free activities, many attractions throughout the city offer discounted prices on tickets with a valid student ID. Restaurants in college areas like Fenway-Kenmore and Allston-Brighton are also known to offer student deals.

For students regularly using Boston’s public transit system, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) offers a semester pass with discounted rates on bus and subway travel.

Public transport in Boston

Boston is a compact city, with students often able to walk from home to campus. However, when traveling beyond your own neighborhood, the MBTA – known locally as the T – allows for easy travel across the city.

Metro

Generally the preferred mode of transport for students, Boston’s subway system has four main color-coded lines and over 150 stations that cover key areas in and around the metropolitan area.

The Green Line is especially useful for students, as it serves both Boston University and Northeastern University. Services tend to run every 10–15 minutes, with the subway open from around 5am–1am.

Bus

Boston’s metro system is complemented by an extensive bus network with over 175 routes that zigzag across the city and cover areas not directly served by the subway. They can be a good option if you need to venture out into the suburbs.

Frequently asked questions

How do I book student housing in Boston?

Found your dream student home in Boston? Applying for the lease with Student.com is simple:

• Choose your room – browse our properties and find a place that suits your needs. Our team of experts are on hand if you need some help!

• Request to book – let us know which property you are interested in & our booking consultants will guide you through the next steps.

• Sign your contract – once your contract is signed you will pay your rent. Student.com does not charge you anything for our booking service: you’ll only need to pay the rent to your chosen landlord.

Learn more about how the booking process works here.

What are the different types of room you offer in Boston?

The student apartments we list in Boston are categorized into three different types of rooms:

• Shared room – two or more people sleeping in separate beds in the same room. The living room, kitchen, and bathroom are all shared with other rooms.

• Private room – additional facilities are also shared with other rooms but you’ll have a private bedroom. In some properties you can also have private rooms with a private bathroom.

• Entire place – this is a fully self-contained property. This means you don’t have to share with anyone. Your bedroom, as well as living, cooking and bathing facilities, are exclusively for you.

How much does student housing in Boston cost?

Strong demand means student rentals in Boston can be quite expensive. Prices vary considerably but most apartments range from $1,500–$2,000 per month. It is possible to find cheaper housing away from the downtown area and by sharing with a roommate.

What options are there for contract length?

Most of the student apartments we list in Boston have flexible lease terms. Some properties built for student housing may have a 10–12-month minimum lease, but the majority of our rooms can be leased for 3 months or more. The shorter the lease term, the higher monthly rental costs are likely to be.

Are bills included in the rent?

It depends on the property you choose. In most cases, bills are included in the total cost of the property, so you’ll only have to pay the rent and nothing else. However, make sure you check to see if this is the case with the property you choose.

Can I see the property before I move in?

Yes. If you'd like to see the property before booking it, you can contact us on the phone or via live chat and our booking consultants will be happy to set up a viewing for you.

What are the best student neighborhoods in Boston?

Home to some of Boston’s biggest universities, Fenway-Kenmore and Allston-Brighton are Boston’s two main student neighborhoods. Back Bay, closer to downtown, is another popular student area however rental prices for student housing are generally higher.

Do I need a visa to study in the US?

If you want to study in the US as a non-US citizen, you’ll need to obtain a student visa from a US embassy or consulate in your home country. For university or college study, you’ll need an F visa. Read more on the requirements and your eligibility here.

What if I didn’t get an answer to my question here?

If you have any other questions, you can check our FAQ page or contact one of our booking consultants. They’re always happy to help!