Boston

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Student Housing

Housing options for students attending universities and colleges in Boston, including on-campus and off-campus options.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Student Housing in Boston, United States

Boston is one of the most popular cities for students in the United States, home to world-renowned universities such as Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Boston University (BU), Northeastern University, and many others. With a large student population, the city offers a variety of housing options, but it is also known for its high cost of living. Below is a detailed guide to help students navigate housing in Boston.

1. Types of Student Housing in Boston

a. On-Campus Housing

  • Description: Most universities in Boston offer on-campus housing options, including dormitories, shared apartments, and suite-style accommodations. These are typically located within or near the campus.
  • Features: Utilities (electricity, water, internet) are usually included, and many dorms offer meal plans.
  • Pros: Proximity to classes, access to campus facilities, and a built-in social community.
  • Cons: Limited availability, higher costs compared to some off-campus options, and less privacy.

b. Off-Campus Housing

  • Description: Many students choose to live off-campus in private apartments, shared houses, or rented rooms. This is especially common for graduate students or upperclassmen.
  • Options:
    • Shared Apartments: Students rent an apartment with roommates to split costs.
    • Studios/One-Bedroom Apartments: Ideal for students who prefer privacy but are more expensive.
    • Homestays: Living with a local family, which can be a cultural experience.
    • Sublets: Short-term rentals, often during summer or semester breaks.
  • Pros: Greater independence, more housing options, and the ability to choose a location.
  • Cons: Higher responsibility for managing utilities, leases, and commuting.

c. Purpose-Built Student Housing (PBSH)

  • Description: These are privately managed housing complexes designed specifically for students. They often include amenities like study rooms, gyms, and social spaces.
  • Examples: Companies like The Edge, The Green District, or University View.
  • Pros: Student-friendly environment, modern amenities, and flexible lease terms.
  • Cons: Can be expensive compared to traditional off-campus housing.

d. Co-Living Spaces

  • Description: A growing trend in Boston, co-living spaces are shared housing arrangements where residents have private bedrooms but share communal areas like kitchens and living rooms.
  • Examples: Companies like Common and WeLive.
  • Pros: Fully furnished, utilities included, and a sense of community.
  • Cons: Limited privacy and higher costs.

2. Average Costs of Student Housing in Boston

Boston is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., and housing costs reflect this. Below are approximate monthly costs for different types of housing:

| Type of Housing | Monthly Cost (USD) | |-----------------------------|------------------------| | On-Campus Dormitory | $1,200 - $2,500 | | Shared Apartment (per room) | $900 - $1,500 | | Studio Apartment | $1,800 - $2,800 | | One-Bedroom Apartment | $2,200 - $3,500 | | Homestay | $1,000 - $1,500 | | Co-Living Space | $1,200 - $2,000 |

Note: Costs vary depending on the neighborhood, proximity to universities, and amenities.

3. Application Process for Housing

a. On-Campus Housing

  1. Apply Early: Most universities have strict deadlines for housing applications, often months before the semester starts.
  2. Deposit: A housing deposit is usually required to secure a spot.
  3. Roommate Matching: Some universities allow students to choose roommates or use a matching system.
  4. Meal Plans: If required, select a meal plan during the application process.

b. Off-Campus Housing

  1. Search Online: Use platforms like Zillow, Craigslist, Apartments.com, or university-specific housing boards.
  2. Visit Properties: Schedule tours to inspect the property and neighborhood.
  3. Lease Agreement: Carefully review the lease, including terms for rent, security deposit, and utilities.
  4. Guarantor: Many landlords require a guarantor (someone who co-signs the lease) if you donโ€™t have a U.S. credit history.
  5. Sublets: For short-term stays, check university bulletin boards or websites like Sublet.com.

c. Purpose-Built Student Housing

  1. Direct Application: Apply directly through the housing providerโ€™s website.
  2. Flexible Leases: Many offer semester-based or 12-month leases.
  3. All-Inclusive: Utilities and amenities are often included in the rent.

4. Tips for Finding Housing Near Universities

  1. Start Early: Bostonโ€™s housing market is competitive, so begin your search 3-6 months before your move-in date.
  2. Use University Resources: Many universities have off-campus housing offices or online platforms to help students find housing.
  3. Consider Public Transportation: Bostonโ€™s MBTA (subway, buses, and commuter rail) is extensive. Living near a subway line (e.g., Red Line, Green Line) can make commuting easier.
  4. Roommate Matching Services: Websites like Roomi, Roomster, or university-specific platforms can help you find roommates to share costs.
  5. Check for Student Discounts: Some landlords or housing providers offer discounts for students.

5. Key Factors to Consider

a. Neighborhoods

  • Popular Student Neighborhoods:
    • Allston/Brighton: Affordable, vibrant, and close to Boston University and Boston College.
    • Fenway/Kenmore: Close to Northeastern University and BU; higher rents but convenient.
    • Cambridge: Ideal for Harvard and MIT students; expensive but walkable and safe.
    • Jamaica Plain (JP): Affordable and diverse, with good public transit options.
    • Somerville: Trendy and close to Tufts University; slightly more affordable than Cambridge.
    • Mission Hill: Popular with Northeastern and MCPHS students; affordable but can be noisy.

b. Proximity to Public Transportation

  • Living near an MBTA subway or bus stop is crucial for easy commuting. The Red Line and Green Line are particularly important for students attending universities in Cambridge and downtown Boston.

c. Safety

  • Boston is generally safe, but some areas are safer than others. Research crime rates and visit neighborhoods during the day and night to assess safety.
  • Use apps like SpotCrime or Citizen to stay informed about local safety.

d. Utilities and Amenities

  • Check if utilities (electricity, water, internet) are included in the rent.
  • Look for amenities like laundry facilities, parking, and furnished options.

e. Lease Terms

  • Understand the lease duration (e.g., 12 months, semester-based).
  • Be aware of penalties for breaking the lease early.

6. Cultural Nuances and Additional Considerations

  • Winter Preparedness: Boston winters are harsh. Ensure your housing has proper heating and is well-insulated.
  • Social Life: Living in student-heavy neighborhoods like Allston or Fenway can provide a vibrant social scene.
  • Diversity: Boston is a diverse city, and many neighborhoods reflect this. Homestays or co-living spaces can offer cultural exchange opportunities.
  • Furniture: Many off-campus apartments are unfurnished. Consider buying second-hand furniture from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or IKEA.

7. Useful Resources

  • University Housing Offices: Check your universityโ€™s website for housing resources.
  • Online Platforms:
    • Zillow (www.zillow.com)
    • Apartments.com (www.apartments.com)
    • Craigslist Boston (boston.craigslist.org)
    • Sublet.com (www.sublet.com)
  • Student Housing Providers:
    • The Edge (www.edgestudenthousing.com)
    • Common (www.common.com)

Conclusion

Finding student housing in Boston requires careful planning due to the cityโ€™s competitive and expensive housing market. Start your search early, prioritize proximity to your university and public transportation, and consider safety and amenities. Whether you choose on-campus housing, off-campus apartments, or co-living spaces, Boston offers a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences.