Apartments for rent in Brighton, MA

Overview of Brighton

Families flock to Brighton, one of the most welcoming and desirable neighborhoods in Boston. Brighton, located on the Charles River, is a thriving area that is home to families, college students and plenty of small businesses.

Because this neighborhood is known for being a residential area within the city, there are plenty of Brighton apartments for rent for those seeking rental properties.

Living in Brighton, MA

Brighton was not always part of Boston. This community has a long and rich history dating back to the 1600s. English settlers came to the area and called it Little Cambridge, after the much larger and established town of Cambridge located nearby.

Little Cambridge chose to separate from Cambridge in 1807, when the Cambridge government failed to repair an important bridge that connected the two communities. Residents named their new community Brighton, and it quickly became an important business center for agriculture and horticulture.

Brighton continued to grow through the 1870s, and residents saw the opportunity to profit from more housing developments. A brand new streetcar made it easy for locals to get to and from neighboring Boston, adding to the community's appeal.

But Brighton would not remain a suburb for long. In 1874 the growing community was integrated into Boston, making it a part of the city. Because of the area's commitment to providing more residential housing, it grew substantially after it was absorbed by Boston, and it has remained an important and historic community within the city. Boston is home to more than 625,000 residents, and many reside in the Brighton neighborhood.

Brighton Work and Study

Residents of Brighton looking to advance their education will have plenty of opportunities to do so within Boston. Boston College is a popular institution in the city, with nearly 15,000 enrolled students. With a range of academic programs and graduate degrees, students will find it easy to discover subject matter that suits their interests and skills. Boston College was also named in the Forbes 2012 list of America's Top Colleges.

Boston University has a long history with the city, dating back more than 150 years. This school is an option for students looking for a campus with a large, diverse student body and plenty of degree options.  From undergraduate degrees to graduate programs and professional studies, Boston University offers instruction in a range of academic fields.

Northeastern University also has historic roots in Boston. This school was founded in 1898, and this private research institution offers students the opportunity to explore a range of subjects. Northeastern attracts students from across the country and around the globe, with more than 20,000 pupils making up the student body at this diverse and selective university.

In a city like Boston, there are a number of large organizations that hire many locals. Some of the largest employers in the city include Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston University, Children's Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

Rentals in Brighton, MA, and Cost of Living

Those looking for Brighton apartments will find that living in Boston may be a bit more expensive than they are accustomed to. Rents across the city range from $1,000 to more than $2,000 per month. The median gross rent in Boston is $1,238, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Brighton residents can cut back on their monthly expenses by choosing more affordable forms of transportation. Much of Boston is easily walkable, and those living in Brighton shouldn't have a problem getting to many places on foot. For longer treks across the city, the public transportation system can shuttle residents all over town.

Brighton Attractions and Special Events

There's plenty to do in Boston, and athletes may want to get involved in the Boston Marathon. For more than 100 years, this race has had a special place in Boston history. With thousands of runners participating yearly, the event is one of the most well-known in the city. Those who don't wish to participate can still watch the marathon and cheer on friends, family and neighbors.

Museum lovers will find that living in Brighton gives them the opportunity to easily explore Boston's best museums. The Boston Children's Museum is great for families, while the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum or Museum of Fine Arts may attract older adults. Kids and their parents will both appreciate the New England Sports Museum, where they can explore the history of their favorite games.

On warmer days, residents can enjoy the outdoors and head to the Public Garden. This botanical garden was the first of its kind in the country when it was opened in 1837. Today, visitors can stroll through unique plants and relax near the fountains. The famous Swan Boats are also available for those who feel like taking a ride on the water.

To find a Brighton apartment or rental, check out our apartment listings. Rent.com® is happy to help you find your next home.