Off-Campus Housing
Where to Start
Before you begin your search, you should establish a monthly budget that accounts for living expenses, housing costs, and any other regular expenses such as a cell phone bill, memberships, clothes, and medical expenses. Once you come up with a reasonable budget for housing, aim to stay within that figure. Secondarily, you should decide on priorities in term of size, location and other personal considerations, such as owning pets.
Rents vary considerably by neighborhood, the state of the economy, the Boston real estate market, and the size of the renting population from year to year. The prices listed here are wide ranging and are meant only to help estimate a budget.
| Studio/Efficiency | $850-$1200 per month |
| One bedroom | $1100-$1600 per month |
| Two bedroom | $1250-2500 per month |
| Three bedroom | $1600-4000 per month |
Be sure to check for the "hidden" costs of renting an apartment, room, or house, such as those mentioned below. Check your lease for an escalator clause that would allow the landlord to raise the rent because of increases in taxes or utilities. Before signing the lease, you should discuss these with the landlord or present tenant to determine the actual cost of renting.
Utilities
Many landlords include some or all utilities in the rent. Depending on what is or is not included in your rent, your monthly costs could vary considerably. If previous utility statements are available, you will have a good idea of what to expect. For contact information on companies that provide utilities in the Greater Boston area, follow the "Local Utility Providers" link.
Heat
This can be a most unexpected cost, especially during the winter. Electric heat can be more expensive than gas or oil. Ask to see past heating bills, and check to see if the apartment is well insulated. Check windows to see if they are equipped with screens and storm windows. Check that the walls and the ceiling have adequate insulation.
Water
Most often the landlord pays for city/town water. If you are uncertain about who pays for the water, check with the landlord.
Parking
Many landlords charge an additional fee, usually monthly or yearly, for off-street parking arrangements. Parking can cost up to $200 per month per spot. If your landlord has no available parking spaces, s/he may know of someone who will lease one to you.
A parking space is a precious commodity in Boston, and parking regulations are strictly enforced. Many neighborhoods provide permit stickers to residents that enable you to park within that neighborhood's restricted area. This does not, however, guarantee you a spot. Pay attention to towing signs, street-cleaning restrictions, parking meters, permit requirements, and time limitations. Never assume you are legally parked — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
