Boston University is a leading private research institution with two primary campuses in the heart of Boston and programs around the world. At BostonOffCampusApartments.com, we help BU students find apartments that match their commute needs, lifestyle, and budget — whether you’re looking for a short walk to class or quick access to public transit.If you want an easy commute to BU, our team can help you find apartments on the streets that students love the most.
1.Commonwealth Avenue (BU West, Central & East)
Best for: Zero-effort commutes, Green Line access, and living in the heart of BU
It’s no surprise that Commonwealth Ave tops the list. Many students choose it for one simple reason: you’re practically on campus. With the BU West, BU Central, and BU East Green Line stops right outside your door, commuting doesn’t get any easier.
Why Students Love Living on Comm Ave
- Steps from academic buildings
- Fast access to the B Line
- Tons of food, cafés, gyms, and essentials
- Ideal for students who prioritize convenience over quiet
If your goal is to eliminate travel time, Commonwealth Ave is unbeatable.
2. Beacon Street (Brookline & Audubon Circle)
Best for: A peaceful, upscale atmosphere with fast access to BU
Beacon Street is perfect for BU students who want a quieter residential setting while still staying close to campus. With access to the C and D Green Line branches, it’s an excellent choice for students commuting to both the Charles River Campus and the Longwood Medical Area.
Benefits of Living on Beacon Street
- Quick ride to BU via the C Line
- Calm, clean residential blocks
- Walkable to grocery stores, cafés, and parks
- Popular with graduate students
Streets near St. Mary’s Street provide especially easy access to BU East.
3. Harvard Avenue (Allston)
Best for: Affordable rentals, fast access to BU West & great food options
Stretching through the heart of Allston, Harvard Ave offers a direct connection to Comm Ave and the BU West section of campus. Students who live here enjoy a short walk or bike ride to class along with an energetic neighborhood full of restaurants and grocery stores.
Why Harvard Ave Works for BU Students
- Walkable to BU West
- Great food, cafés, and shopping
- Multiple bus routes
- More affordable than Brookline or Fenway
It’s especially popular for students looking for budget-friendly off-campus housing.
4. St. Paul Street (Brookline & BU East)
Best for: Super short walks to campus and access to both Comm Ave & Beacon Street
St. Paul Street is a student favorite. Running between Commonwealth Ave and Beacon Street, it provides the best of both worlds: walkability, quiet residential pockets, and easy access to BU East.
Key Benefits of St. Paul St
- A few minutes’ walk to BU East
- Close to the St. Paul Street Green Line stop
- Quiet, tree-lined residential blocks
- Mix of modern apartments and classic brownstones
If you want a reliable 5–10 minute walk to class, St. Paul Street is ideal.
5. Babcock Street (BU West)
Best for: Being close to BU’s athletic facilities and fast campus access
Located right off Comm Ave in Allston, Babcock Street is especially convenient for students who frequent FitRec, Agganis Arena, or the College of General Studies.
What Makes Babcock Street Convenient
- One-minute walk to BU West
- Very close to student amenities
- Quick access to the Green Line
- Wide sidewalks for easy biking or walking
It’s one of the best streets for students who want everything right outside their door.
6. Pleasant Street (Packard’s Corner / Allston-Brookline Border)
Best for: Easy access to both BU and Brookline amenities
Pleasant Street is a hidden gem. Sitting right between Packard’s Corner and Brookline, it offers quiet residential streets while still making it extremely easy to reach Comm Ave.
Why Students Choose Pleasant Street
- Walkable to Packard’s Corner B Line stop
- Quick access to Commonwealth Ave
- Safer, calmer feel than central Allston
- Affordable apartments + great location
This is one of the best streets for students who want convenience without the noise.
7. Park Drive (The Fenway)
Best for: BU students in the medical, dental, or public health programs
If you’re commuting to the Longwood Medical Area or BU’s Fenway campus buildings, Park Drive offers incredibly easy access. Located along The Fens, it’s peaceful and scenic while still being close to transit.
Benefits of Park Drive
- Walking distance to Longwood
- Green space perfect for studying or relaxing
- Close to grocery stores and public transit
- Quieter than the main Fenway streets
For BU grad students in health sciences programs, Park Drive is hard to beat.
Find an Apartment on the Best Streets Near BU
At BostonOffCampusApartments.com, we help BU students find apartments that match their commute needs, lifestyle, and budget — whether you’re looking for a short walk to class or quick access to public transit.
If you want an easy commute to BU, our team can help you find apartments on the streets that students love the most.
Start your BU apartment search today at BostonOffCampusApartments.com