Apartments Near Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Your 2026 guide to finding affordable, student-friendly housing in Cambridge, MA — with real prices, best neighborhoods, and tips to avoid common mistakes.
Average 1BR Rent
$2,700/mo
Best Neighborhoods
Cambridge Heights · Downtown
Walk to Campus
5–20 min walk
Housing Near Massachusetts Institute of Technology: What to Expect
Massachusetts Institute of Technology enrolls 4,571 students, creating steady demand for off-campus housing in Cambridge, MA. Most students move off-campus after their first or second year either to save money or gain more independence.
Rent near campus ranges from $2,200/mo for a studio to $3,750/mo for a 2-bedroom — with 3 and 4-bedroom shared units often bringing individual rent down to $1550–$2350/person/mo.
The area is one of the more expensive student housing markets in the country. Planning ahead and securing roommates early is key.
Apartment Listings Near Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Representative listings — prices reflect current market rates for Cambridge, MA.
Summit Commons
Best ValueQuiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$1,814–$2,100/mo
Studio · 1 BA · 0.3 mi from campus
Collegiate Flats
Most PopularOlder building with character — garden courtyard, lower rents, walkable location.
$2,311–$2,650/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 0.5 mi from campus
Summit Square
Well-maintained mid-rise with 24/7 security, a fitness center, and direct bus access to campus.
$3,440–$3,950/mo
2 BR · 1 BA · 0.7 mi from campus
College Heights
Full-service building with co-working spaces, a coffee lounge, and a private shuttle.
$4,169–$4,800/mo
3 BR · 2 BA · 0.9 mi from campus
Grove Square
Spacious layouts with in-unit laundry and a resident study lounge — popular with upperclassmen.
$2,390–$2,750/mo
1 BR · 1 BA · 1.1 mi from campus
College Flats
New BuildingAffordable and social — a favorite for first-year off-campus students with a rooftop common area.
$3,339–$3,850/mo
2 BR · 2 BA · 1.4 mi from campus
Scholar Residences
Quiet study-focused community with fiber internet and soundproofed bedrooms.
$4,132–$4,750/mo
4 BR · 2 BA · 1.6 mi from campus
Best Areas to Live Near Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge Heights
The closest neighborhood to Massachusetts Institute of Technology's main entrance. Walk to class in minutes — coffee shops and convenience stores line the main strip.
Downtown
A lively area with bars, restaurants, and weekend activity. Ideal if you want a social scene steps from your apartment.
College Hill
Quieter residential streets with single-family homes converted into multi-unit rentals. More space, lower prices, a short bike ride to campus.
The Loop
Downtown location with walkable access to the transit hub, employers, and city amenities — best for students with internships or part-time jobs.
Cost of Living Near Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Student Housing Tips
Start Early
The best apartments near campus get leased 6–9 months before move-in. If you want August housing, start searching in January–February.
Read the Lease
Check: who pays utilities, guest policies, subletting rules, and what happens if a roommate leaves. Never sign anything you haven't fully read.
Choose Roommates Carefully
Split a 3–4 bedroom and each person's share drops by 30–40%. Use a roommate agreement to align on noise, guests, cleanliness, and bills.