Janice Lozano
Boston University has a bustling campus integrated into the heart of the city. With over 37,000 students, it is one of the most expensive and competitive rental markets in the country. Living off campus is a great way to see more of the city and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Boston University estimates the total cost of attendance for students living off-campus to be around $90,000 per year.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of students living off-campus | 38,000 |
| Popular neighbourhoods | Fenway-Kenmore, Allston-Brighton |
| Rent prices | $1,000-$5,000 per month |
| Travel time | 15-minute train ride from Allston-Brighton |
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What You'll Learn
Allston-Brighton: A 15-minute train ride from BU with cheaper housing costs
Allston-Brighton is a popular choice for Boston University students seeking off-campus housing. Located in western Boston, it is just a 15-minute train ride from the university, making it a convenient option for those who want to be close to campus.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Allston-Brighton as your off-campus destination is the cost of housing. As the neighbourhood is further away from downtown Boston, rent prices tend to be lower than those in areas closer to the city centre, such as Brookline or Kenmore Square. This makes it an attractive option for students who want to save on living costs without sacrificing proximity to campus.
Allston and Brighton are often referred to as Boston's "student meccas". This is because, in addition to being affordable, the areas offer easy access to multiple universities, MBTA lines, restaurants, concert venues, and cheap apartments. The neighbourhoods are also home to a large student population, so you'll be surrounded by peers from various universities, creating a vibrant and dynamic community feel.
When considering Allston-Brighton as your off-campus housing option, it's important to keep in mind that the rental market in Boston is highly competitive and expensive. While the area may offer more affordable options compared to downtown, it is still crucial to be mindful of your budget and the potential hidden costs of moving off-campus, such as moving expenses and setting up utilities.
Overall, Allston-Brighton provides a great balance of proximity to campus, affordability, and a vibrant student community, making it an excellent choice for Boston University students seeking off-campus housing.
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Fenway-Kenmore: Home to Fenway Park and restaurants, bars, and nightclubs
Boston University has a bustling campus integrated into the heart of the city. The university offers on-campus housing for undergraduates, but many graduate students, transfers, and some undergrads opt to live off-campus. One of the most popular neighbourhoods for off-campus housing is Fenway-Kenmore, where the main campus is located.
Fenway-Kenmore is home to Fenway Park, where students can catch a baseball game. The neighbourhood also boasts an array of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, making it a vibrant and exciting place to live.
For sports enthusiasts, Fenway-Kenmore offers more than just the thrill of baseball games. The neighbourhood is known for its sports bars, providing the perfect spot to catch up on your favourite games while enjoying a refreshing drink and tasty snacks. If you're craving some international flavours, India Quality in Kenmore Square offers excellent North Indian cuisine, with a variety of biryanis and stuffed naan that will tantalize your taste buds. Rod Thai is another popular choice, known for serving some of the best Thai food in the city. Their cosy dining room is often buzzing with patrons indulging in crowd favourites like the tart som tum and creamy massaman curry.
When it comes to nightlife, Fenway-Kenmore has a lively atmosphere with various options to choose from. You can explore the wine bars, such as the one located at the Verb Hotel, offering a diverse selection of wines and a delightful cheese plate. If you're in the mood for a concert, the neighbourhood has you covered with exciting venues like the famous Fenway Park itself, where you can enjoy live music and entertainment.
For a more relaxed evening, you can stroll to 401 Park, where Trillium offers a variety of local, seasonal beers on tap. If you're craving something different, the neighbouring Time Out Market Boston presents an array of counter-service food and drink options, satisfying all tastes, from doughnuts to tacos and fried chicken sandwiches.
Fenway-Kenmore truly comes alive at night, offering something for everyone, from sports enthusiasts to foodies and music lovers. With its convenient proximity to the main campus, it's no wonder that this neighbourhood is a popular choice for Boston University students seeking off-campus accommodations.
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Boston's competitive rental market: Expect high costs
Boston's rental market is one of the most expensive and competitive in the country. As a result, students at Boston University (BU) can expect to pay high costs when living off-campus.
The majority of BU's student population lives in Allston, which is around a 15-minute train ride from the university. Neighboring Brighton is also a popular choice, as both areas are near multiple universities, MBTA lines, restaurants, concert venues, and relatively cheap apartments. The further away from downtown Boston, the cheaper the housing costs. For example, Brookline and Kenmore Square are closer to the city center and have higher rental prices.
There are plenty of apartments near BU in Fenway-Kenmore, where the main campus is based. This neighborhood is home to Fenway Park and has lots of restaurants, sports bars, and nightclubs. Apartments in this area can range from $1,000 to $5,000 per month.
When looking for off-campus housing, students should be aware of rental scams and try to avoid paying hyper-inflated prices. Studios with in-unit laundry can cost upwards of $2,300 to $3,000 per month. International students, in particular, should be cautious of prices, as they will generally have less access to need-based financial support than domestic students.
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Short-term housing: Options include hotels and hostels
Boston University offers a wide range of short-term housing options for students seeking flexibility and convenience. While the university itself does not provide short-term housing, it directs students to the BU Medical Campus Housing Resources site, which offers a list of hotels and hostels in the area. This resource is particularly useful for those in need of temporary accommodations, such as visiting students or those transitioning to long-term housing.
When considering short-term housing, hotels, and hostels, it is essential to be mindful of potential rental scams. The Boston Police have reported an increase in such fraudulent activities, so students are advised to be cautious and well-informed before finalising any housing arrangements. Boston University provides online safety tips and resources to help students identify and avoid common scams, ensuring a secure housing search process.
Hotels and hostels near Boston University can provide a convenient and comfortable temporary housing solution. These accommodations typically offer furnished rooms, basic amenities, and flexible lease terms, making them ideal for students who need a place to stay for a short duration. Additionally, some hotels and hostels may offer student discounts or special rates for extended stays, so it is worth inquiring about any available promotions.
In addition to hotels and hostels, students seeking short-term housing may also explore other options, such as subletting or temporary rental agreements. These alternatives can provide more affordable and long-term solutions for students who need housing for a semester or academic year but do not want to commit to a standard 12-month lease. Websites like uhomes.com offer a variety of student housing choices near Boston University, providing flexible options for those with specific preferences and budgets.
Overall, Boston University students have access to a range of short-term housing options, including hotels and hostels suggested by the university's housing resources. By being cautious of rental scams and exploring alternative temporary housing solutions, students can find safe and suitable accommodations to meet their short-term needs.
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Online safety: Be aware of rental scams
Boston University has a large student body of over 37,000 students, and while many live on campus, there are plenty of options for those who want to live off-campus. The most popular neighbourhoods for BU students include Fenway-Kenmore, Allston-Brighton, and Brookline, which are all within a short distance of the university.
When looking for off-campus housing, it's important to be aware of potential rental scams. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:
Do Your Research
Before committing to a rental property, it's important to do your research. Compare the advertised rent with nearby units of a similar size to get an idea of the average rental costs in the neighbourhood. If the price seems too good to be true, it could be a scam. Look out for unclear or strange descriptions, which may indicate that the person writing the listing hasn't actually seen the property.
Verify the Listing
Use online tools such as Boston Property Assessment to verify the address and owner of the property. Check if the property appears on maps and street view to ensure it matches the exterior photo in the listing. If the address doesn't exist or can't be found on any maps, that's a red flag. You can also use tools like RentSmart Boston to get a more complete picture of the property, including any previous issues.
Be Wary of Unusually Low Rent
While Boston is known for its expensive rental market, be cautious of listings with unusually low rent. This could be a tactic used by scammers to attract unsuspecting renters. Compare rental costs for the neighbourhood to get a sense of what is considered a fair price.
Never Send Money Before Seeing the Property
A common tactic used by scammers is to request money before allowing potential renters to see the property. They may claim to be out of the country or unavailable for a tour. Never send any payments before you have had a chance to properly view the property, either in person or through a virtual tour. A legitimate landlord will not pressure you to pay before you have had the opportunity to inspect the unit.
Report Scams to the Proper Authorities
If you encounter a rental scam, report it to the police and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). You can also report fake websites, emails, malware, and other internet scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Additionally, contact your university's off-campus housing support services, as they may have specific resources and guidance to help you navigate rental scams.
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Frequently asked questions
There are plenty of apartments near BU in Fenway-Kenmore, the neighbourhood where the main campus is based. Allston-Brighton, based in western Boston, is also a popular choice for students, with cheaper housing costs and a 15-minute train ride from the university.
The cost of apartments near BU ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 per month.
Boston has one of the most expensive and competitive rental markets in the country. Be cautious of rental scams and be prepared for moving costs and a longer commute to classes.
Boston University's Off-Campus Services provides a database of listings and helpful resources. Students can also browse apartments on websites like student.com and use social media to connect with classmates looking for roommates.
Yes, Boston University provides a "Short Term Housing" page with information on short-term housing options, including hotels and hostels.
