Urban Student

Studying in Boston

Massachusetts, United States

Boston and neighbouring Cambridge form the densest cluster of elite universities in the United States, with a young, academic population, a historic and walkable centre, and strong sectors in biotech, healthcare, and education.

Universities and major institutes

  • Harvard University (Cambridge)
  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, Cambridge)
  • Boston University
  • Northeastern University
  • Tufts, Boston College, Berklee, and many more

Cost of living

Boston is among the most expensive US student cities. Expect $1,100–$2,000 per month for a room in a shared apartment, with a walkable core and the “T” subway connecting the campuses.

Neighbourhoods for students

  • Cambridge (Harvard/Central/Kendall) — Harvard and MIT territory.
  • Allston / Brighton — the classic student belt near BU.
  • Fenway — central, near several universities.
  • Mission Hill — near Northeastern, popular with students.

Institutions in Boston