Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Boston

Affordability

Boston is a high-cost rental market, with a median asking rent of $2,147 per month and a median household income of $97,344, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024). Roughly 64% of Boston residents rent their homes, reflecting strong ongoing demand for affordable options in the city.

Lease Lantern tracks 89 HUD-assisted and income-restricted properties totaling 9,991 units across Boston, offering income-qualified renters access to housing at below-market rates.

Safety

According to the Boston Police Department's FBI Crime Data Explorer figures for 2024, Boston had a violent crime rate of 630 per 100,000 residents. Keep in mind that crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in how jurisdictions define and report crimes.

Getting Around Boston

The area around Boston's assisted properties scores exceptionally well for car-free living, according to Walk Score.

• Walk Score: 96 - Walker's Paradise. Everyday errands do not require a car.
• Transit Score: 93 - Rider's Paradise. World-class public transit serves the area.
• Bike Score: 98. Biking is an excellent option for most trips.

These scores reflect conditions around the 89 HUD-assisted properties listed in Boston and may vary by specific address.

Schools

According to NCES Common Core of Data, 16 public schools across 6 districts serve Boston, including 6 elementary, and 9 high schools, plus 1 other. Ratings and quality vary by school and district, so renters should check the assigned schools for a specific address before applying.

Cost of Living

Boston's median household income is $97,344 per year, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. The median asking rent in the city is $2,147 per month, reflecting one of the more expensive rental markets in the country.

Affordable and income-based housing can significantly reduce that burden. The 89 HUD-assisted and LIHTC properties tracked on Lease Lantern account for nearly 10,000 units where rents are tied to income limits rather than market rates.

Flood & Environmental Exposure

All 89 HUD-assisted properties in Boston have been mapped for flood risk. None are located in a high-risk flood zone according to that data, which is a reassuring finding for a coastal city.