Top 7 Cheapest neighborhoods in Boston with the Best quality of life – 2024

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $1,850
• Median property buying cost: $595,000

Quincy is a waterfront neighborhood just outside of Boston, yet near enough that some consider it to be Boston. It provides a great sense of an outdoor lifestyle while also helping you save money because you can walk anywhere. It has a walk score of 81 out of 100, marking it as one of Boston’s best neighborhoods.

Locals love Quincy’s local events, which make it an ideal place for families and individuals seeking a balanced urban-suburban lifestyle.

As of August 2023, the median property buying cost is $595,000, and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,850, making it our top pick of the cheapest places to live in Boston. 

Rocket Homes (August 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,100
• Median property buying cost: $595,000

Malden is a thriving suburban community and one of Massachusetts’s most diversified neighborhoods, and provides ample opportunities to everyone. 

It is located just outside of Boston, yet close enough that some people consider it to be a part of the city. This area gracefully keeps its cultural legacy while remaining open to modern technology. 

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is $595,000 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,100 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,560
• Median property buying cost: $617,187

Revere is an oceanfront neighborhood with the beautiful Revere Beach, the oldest public beach in the United States and the first ocean beach bought for public pleasure in the United States, as well as one of the first properties added to Boston’s Metropolitan Park System.

Locals enjoy the variety of events, making it an exciting location for residents seeking an active and beach-oriented lifestyle.

As of July 2023, the median property buying cost is $617,187 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,560 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (July 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,197.50
• Median property buying cost: $700,000

Roslindale is a residential area in the Boston neighborhood bordered by Jamaica Plain, Hyde Park, West Roxbury, and Mattapan.

The neighborhood is just near the Arnold Arboretum, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and recreational opportunities. 

Locals mention that Roslindale is a community-friendly neighborhood with activities suitable for its residents.

As of July 2023, the median property buying cost is $700,000 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,197.50 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (July 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,250
• Median property buying cost: $682,450

“Little Cambridge” is what Brighton, Massachusetts, is known for. The neighborhood is only 5 miles from downtown Boston and is situated between the Green B and C lines of the subway. Locals call this place home to college students, young professionals, and established families because of its wonderful blend of peace, warmth, and entertainment.

Brighton is less than 10 minutes from any Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority stop, making it convenient to go to well-known schools like Boston University, Boston College, and Emanuel College. It has many tree-lined streets, giving it a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Locals who enjoy doing outdoor activities may jog to the Charles River or take a walk around Chestnut Hill Reservoir. 

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is $682,450 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,250 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent:  $2,397.50
• Median property buying cost: $665,000

Allston, a Boston neighborhood near the Charles River, honors American painter and poet Washington Allston. Known for its vibrant murals and music venues, it’s a top spot in Greater Boston for accessible artwork. The area hosts musicians in various venues, from concert halls to pubs, catering to locals, especially students.

Ranked 22nd in Boston’s walkability with a Walk Score of 87, Allston boasts numerous parks and playgrounds, including Christian Herter Park, Lawton Playground, Reginald Wilder Playground, and Smith Playground. These spaces offer recreational opportunities for all, making it ideal for summer picnics and weekend family activities.

As of June 2023, the median property buying cost is $665,000 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,397.50 as of August 2023. 

Rocket Homes (June 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)

• Median 1-bed apt rent: $2,750
• Median property buying cost: $1,189,800

Brookline is a good choice for residents seeking a mix of urban convenience and suburban charm. Locals like the neighborhood’s proximity to Boston, and they can save money on transport because they can walk everywhere, with a Walk Score of 91.

Brookline’s pathways, picnic areas, and sporting fields, multiple parks, like Larz Anderson Park and Olmstead Park, create a welcoming environment for families. 

As of August 2023, the median property buying cost is $1,189,800 and the median cost of a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,750.

Rocket Homes (August 2023) & Zillow (August 2023)