The real-time average rent price for a 1- bedroom apartment in the City of Boston is currently $2,588. To remain at an adequate rent-to-income ratio, you would most likely need a household minimum income of $94,109; this would mean a rent-to-income ratio of 33%, the highest recommended amount. The chart below breaks down what the recommended household income is for each size apartment in the city of Boston based on current average rent prices and a 30% rent-to-income ratio.
| City of Boston | Avg. Rent Price | Recommended Household Income |
| Studio | $2,233 | $81, 200 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,588 | $94,109 |
| 2 Bedroom | $3,232 | $117,527 |
| 3 Bedroom | $3,898 | $141,745 |
| 4 Bedroom | $4,751 | $172,763 |
| 5 Bedroom | $5,814 | $211,418 |
If you can’t afford an apartment in the city of Boston, there are more economical options in surrounding areas with quick access to the city! It is never a bad idea to seek housing just outside the city that has great access to public transportation. Most people will look for a commute time from their apartment to a T-station of 12 minutes or less. You will often notice rental pricing goes down the further it is from a T-station. If your job requires you to drive quite a bit and you have a car – you might be able to score a better deal since you will not be public transportation dependent.
A Breakdown of the Cost Of Living In Boston
Why is Boston so expensive? It has a lot to do with the fact that Boston offers a high quality of life: it was voted 4th most livable city in America last year. There is also a great degree of upwards and career advancement and mobility by working in Boston. Many a great resume have been built by being employed in our great city.
The cost of living in Boston is over 50% higher when measured against the national average. The average cost for one person to live in Boston is $3,345 per month according to LivingCost.org. The number increases to $7,700 per month for a family of four. That means Boston is in the top 0.4% of most…