If you’re searching for an apartment in Massachusetts, the cost can vary dramatically depending on the location. From downtown Boston luxury high-rises to upscale suburbs with trendy complexes, some areas command significantly higher rents and sale prices for apartments. Let’s break down the most expensive places to rent or buy apartments in the Bay State, and what drives those prices.

Downtown Boston: The Heart of High-End Apartment Living

Boston’s downtown neighborhoods consistently top the list for priciest apartment living in Massachusetts. Areas like the Seaport District, Back Bay, and Financial District offer luxury apartments with sweeping city and harbor views, high-end amenities, and prime access to offices, shops, and restaurants.

Average rents for luxury apartments in downtown Boston can range from $3,000 to $6,000+ per month for one- and two-bedroom units. Purchase prices for condos in these areas often exceed $1 million, especially for larger or waterfront units. The Seaport District, in particular, has seen a surge in luxury apartment developments, attracting professionals willing to pay a premium for modern design and proximity to downtown.

Cambridge: Innovation Meets Upscale Living

Across the Charles River, Cambridge offers a mix of historic charm and modern apartment complexes, many catering to the tech and academic communities.

Luxury apartment rents here generally range from $2,500 to $5,000 per month, depending on size and location. Neighborhoods like Kendall Square and Central Square are hotspots for expensive apartments due to proximity to MIT, biotech firms, and cultural amenities.

Brookline and Newton: Suburban Luxury Apartments

For those seeking a more suburban vibe without sacrificing luxury, Brookline and Newton offer upscale apartment options in leafy, family-friendly neighborhoods.

Rents typically range between $2,200 and $4,500 per month for modern units with amenities like gyms, doormen, and parking. These areas combine good schools, green spaces, and easy access to Boston, making them desirable for professionals and families.

Other Noteworthy Expensive Apartment Markets

Somerville: Rapidly growing with new developments in neighborhoods like Assembly Row and Union Square, rents can reach $3,000+ for newer luxury units. Cambridgeport: A smaller but pricey neighborhood offering modern apartments near the river, with rents similar to Kendall Square. South Boston (“Southie”): This neighborhood has gentrified significantly, with luxury condos and apartments pushing rents into the $3,000+ range.

What Drives High Apartment Prices in Massachusetts?

Location: Proximity to downtown Boston, major employers, universities, and public transit increases demand and prices. Amenities: Luxury buildings with gyms, rooftop decks, concierge services, and secure parking command higher rents. Limited supply: In sought-after neighborhoods, new developments are limited and expensive, pushing prices up. Lifestyle: Young professionals, academics, and executives often prioritize walkability and lifestyle, fueling demand for high-end apartments.

What This Means for Renters and Buyers

If you want a luxury apartment in Massachusetts’ most expensive neighborhoods, expect to pay a premium for convenience, amenities, and location. For renters, budgets of $3,000+ per month are common in downtown Boston and parts of Cambridge. Buyers should anticipate million-dollar-plus price tags in top urban areas.

Those looking for more affordable options might consider neighborhoods further from the city center or older buildings with fewer amenities.