"Modest Declines: The average rent in Boston fell by approximately 0.8% year-over-year as of January 2026, a decrease of about $27-$50 per month depending on the tracking source. Record Vacancies: Vacancy rates have reached their highest levels since the pandemic, giving renters more leverage for the first time in years. Neighboring Relief: Rent drops are more significant in surrounding areas; for example, Quincy fell 6.8%, Lowell 6.4%, and Somerville 6.2% year-over-year."
"Economic Jitters: A cooling biotech market and recent job layoffs in the region have reduced demand for high-end luxury units. Student Shifts: Tighter international student visa restrictions and federal research funding cuts have led to unusual vacancies in student-heavy neighborhoods like Allston. New Supply: The completion of nearly 8,600 new units in the past year has helped loosen a historically tight market."
Boston apartment rents have begun modest declines, with average rent down about 0.8% year-over-year as of January 2026, a decrease of roughly $27–$50 per month depending on the source. Vacancy rates are at their highest levels since the pandemic, giving renters greater leverage and prompting landlord concessions such as free parking or waived pet restrictions. Surrounding cities show larger drops—Quincy (-6.8%), Lowell (-6.4%), Somerville (-6.2%). Contributing factors include a cooling biotech sector and layoffs, tighter international-student visa rules and research-funding cuts, the completion of nearly 8,600 new units, and out-migration among 25–44-year-olds. Average rent remains above $3,000, more than double the national average, indicating stabilization rather than a market collapse as demand from high-paying industries persists.
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