Housing

row of houses

Finding Housing in Boston

Make your move to Boston easier by finding a place to live before you arrive! BHCC does not offer on-campus housing, so we share the following information to help you learn about housing options in the Boston area. 

Before You Arrive: Secure Short-Term Housing

We recommend you find short-term housing before you arrive in Boston. Become familiar with the area before you explore long-term housing options.

Short-Term Housing Options:

  • Homestay: Live with a local family! You will have a fully furnished room and may pay an extra fee to include some meals. However, you must follow house rules and will have less privacy.
    • Cost: Approximately $1,360 – $1,900 per month (or $340 – $475 per week)
    • Options: Global Immersions
  • Short-Term Rentals: Rent a room in a shared apartment. This option offers more privacy and kitchen access, but rooms may be unfurnished and utilities are typically extra.
    • Cost: Approximately $1,000 – $2,000 per month + utilities
    • Options: June Homes
  • Hostels: Shared, dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and communal spaces. Best for very brief stays – many hostels limit the length of time you can stay.

After You Arrive: Find Long-Term Housing

Follow the steps below to search for and secure an apartment:

  • Budget Your Expenses: Expect to pay $1,000 – $3,000 per month for rent. Utilities are usually an additional expense. You can lower your rent cost by living with roommates or finding an apartment that includes the cost of heating or other utilities.
  • Move Fast: If you find an apartment that interests you, contact the person listing the apartment to see it as soon as possible.
  • Apply: If you like the apartment, fill out the rental application. Have your financial support documentation (bank statements, Affidavit of Support) ready to submit with your application. You may be asked for your credit report – if you do not have credit history in the U.S., you will not have a credit report. Please disclose this and ask for other options to verify your ability to pay rent.
  • Review the Lease: If your application is accepted and you are sent the lease document, review the lease first. If you have any questions or concerns about the lease, address these with the landlord or property manager before signing it.
  • Pay Up-front Costs: Once you sign the lease, be ready to pay the first and last months’ rent, security deposit, and broker’s fee (if applicable) immediately. Both the security deposit and broker’s fee are usually equal to one month’s rent each.
  • Consider an Expert: If the process is overwhelming, hire a student-friendly broker who can help you find apartments that meet your needs.

Avoid Rental Scams

Many listings on apartment search platforms are fake. You must physically inspect the apartment and sign a lease before you pay any money for your apartment. 

  • Do not send money, provide bank account information, nor sign a lease without seeing the apartment in-person.
  • Do not send money to “hold” an apartment before seeing the apartment in-person.
  • Be cautious of rentals for which the price seems unrealistically low.

Do not let anyone pressure you if you have any doubts about the property. There will always be another apartment available.

As a renter, you have rights. Please review the Massachusetts government’s guide to understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Key Rental Terms

  • Lease: A legally binding contract between a tenant and landlord that gives a tenant the right to live in a property for a fixed period of time (usually one year), at a fixed price. The contract will include the rules and regulations pertaining to the specific property (for example, no smoking).
  • Rental Application: An application on which a potential landlord will collect information from you in order to determine your fitness as a potential tenant.
  • Broker / Real Estate Agent: A licensed professional who helps you find legitimate apartments. Using a broker is common in Boston.
  • Broker’s Fee: The fee charged by the broker, usually equal to one month's rent. If the landlord has hired the broker, the landlord must pay the broker’s fee.
  • Eviction: A legal maneuver to remove a tenant from a property for violation of the terms of the lease.