Moving from suburban Pennsylvania to Boston Massachusetts and trying to find an affordable apartment as a college student is nothing short of world changing. The excitement of Boston is invigorating, but the cost of living is shocking. I looked at apartments in virtually every neighborhood of this world-class metropolis and one thing you seldom find is cheap. Affordable is defined by your budget and as a college student my pockets were nearly empty. It has been suggested to me that students such as myself with white middle class upbringings are the cause of rising home costs, which consequently push locals into further outlying areas. This is a sad reality, but I’d hesitate to say my pockets are any deeper than most of yours.
Trendy Usually Doesn’t Mean Affordable
An idealist might start out in the beautiful, historic and famous Beacon Hill where you’ll find that affordable is a $1000 per month studio (meaning one room) with something akin to a closet housing both your bathroom and kitchen. It’s a lovely neighborhood with culture, delicious restaurants and easy access to transit and highways, but these desirable attributes are reflected in the price you’ll pay for rent. This centralized area has a beautiful view of the surrounding skyscrapers, is also home to The State House and nearby Government Center. After Beacon Hill you might decide to reach out to other neighborhoods for a better deal.
If you’re looking for trendy neighborhoods be ready to embrace higher rental costs and less modern homes with fewer amenities. The South End, North End, Financial District, Newbury Street, Back Bay, most of Fenway Park and, as mentioned before, Beacon Hill are going to be notably more expensive. Expect to pay between 1,000 and 1,500 monthly to rent no more than a 1 bedroom. Living in these areas is a trade off. You’ll live right downtown in the most desirable, arguably safer parts of the city with easy access to the waterfront, historic areas, theater, nightlife, culture and the hustle and bustle of Boston’s most popular locales. But you’ll find smaller apartments, with fewer updates at higher prices.
Trade Offs and Proximity Translate to Value
Driving in Boston is known to be a rough experience and in most cases owning and parking a car is more hassle than it’s worth. Living close to public transit is a prerequisite for most residents of the city. The T, Boston’s public transit system, has 4 lines served by underground and above ground trains. The green line predominantly downtown Boston, but extends to the Western and Southern neighborhoods including Brookline, home to Boston College and areas around Northeastern University.
Jamaica Plains (JP to locals), Allston, Mission Hill, the edges of Roxbury near Columbus and Massachusetts Avenues and areas of the Fenway are all accessible by the Green or Orange Line. These areas have more affordable housing due to their proximity to downtown, but still offer great resources usually within walking distance.
Allston is home to many college students living in large homes with lots of bedrooms. Consequently many house parties are thrown here and it has a reputation for being a grittier area with a wide sampling of nightlife. It’s convenient to public transportation and has lots of shops and restaurants. Nearby Jamaica Plains is the alternative choice for young families and late 20 somethings trying to escape Allston’s younger residents. In the Jamaica Plains Neighborhood you’ll find natural food stores, local restaurants instead of chains and residents with alternative lifestyles for which the area is sometimes referred to as “Gay P.
Mission Hill and Roxbury have long been known for gang violence and crime. When I first moved to the edges of this area I was told by other residents to never walk more than a few blocks in a certain direction. Despite the warnings I never felt threatened living in this area and appreciated it’s culture and diversity. The rent was the lowest I could find and in my case was within walking distance of The South End and Back Bay. The Silver Line a Bus Rapid Transit system is now servicing some of these areas.
A solid bet for affordable homes and rentals are the outlying towns on the Redline including Dorchester, South Boston, Somerville and areas of Cambridge. Lots of people are moving in this direction for the beautiful old neighborhoods and burgeoning main streets with trendy shops and dining establishments. If you have a car these areas often have available street parking for residents. The South Boston and Dorchester areas offer easy access to parks along the bay
The Blue Line provides access to the Northeastern waterfront areas. Revere Beach, The Airport, and Suffolk Downs Racetrack are notable stops just outside the city. Populated predominantly by blue-collar working class residents you’ll find fewer college students and a more car-oriented culture. Living in this area has quick access to downtown via the T, but it’s mix of industrial buildings and highways can make you feel that you live far from the physical city.
No matter what your budget you’ll find a neighborhood with charm in the historic city of Boston if you’re willing to look. In my experience it’s a matter of trade offs and knowing what you want. Nail down your expectations and what you’re willing to compromise on. Use services like craigslist and have patience; eventually you’ll find just what you’re looking for!
