Brookline is a charming and affluent suburb of Boston known for its beautiful homes and tree-lined streets that offers a strong sense of community and a thriving cultural scene. The city's many cultural institutions, such as the John F. Kennedy National Historic Site, the Larz Anderson Auto Museum, and the Puppet Showplace Theater, serve as a testament to the city's artistic and historical legacy. On top of that, Brookline's academic institutions, such as Boston University, New England Conservatory of Music, and nearby Harvard Medical School, contribute to the area's vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring Brookline's parks and nature preserves, such as Brookline Reservoir Park, Larz Anderson Park, and Allandale Woods. Sports fans can enjoy Boston's multiple professional teams, such as the Boston Bruins (NHL), Boston Red Sox (MLB), and Boston Celtics (NBA). In addition, the city's annual events, such as Brookline Porchfest, the Brookline Cherry Blossom Festival, and the Brookline Booksmith Storytime, bring the community together in celebration.

Brookline is a beautiful place to call home, offering a mix of city and suburban living, excellent schools, and easy access to Boston's many cultural attractions.

Rental Market Trends

Brookline, MA

As of April 2026, Brookline's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Brookline's average rent is 44.6% ($1,203) higher than the Massachusetts average of $2,698 and 118.2% ($2,113) higher than the U.S. average of $1,788.

Average Rent

$3,901

Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change

2.3% ($92)

Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change

7.7% ($279)

Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market

Unit Type	Average Rent	Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change	Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
1 Bed	$2,858	6% ($163)	8.3% ($219)
2 Beds	$3,612	1.8% ($64)	3.1% ($107)
3 Beds	$4,697	0.1% ($5)	1.1% ($49)

Nearby Cities	Average Rent	Avg. Rent vs. BrooklineAverage Rent vs. Brookline	Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
Roxbury Crossing	$3,872	0.7% ($29)	47 days
Jamaica Plain	$3,379	13.4% ($522)	27 days
Allston	$2,859	26.7% ($1042)	40 days
Chestnut Hill	$4,296	10.1% ($395)	37 days
Brighton	$2,904	25.6% ($997)	30 days

Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brookline Rental Market FAQs

Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Brookline, MA.

What is the average rent in Brookline, MA?

The average rent in Brookline, MA is $3,901 per month.

What is the rental price range for homes in Brookline, MA?

Homes in Brookline typically rent for between $2,001 and $6,106 per month, with an average of $3,901 per month.

What is the average rent for different bedroom sizes in Brookline, MA?

In Brookline, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $2,858 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $3,612 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $4,697 per month.

How do rent prices in Brookline, MA compare with the national average?

The average rent in Brookline is 118.2% ($2,113) higher than the national average of $1,788 per month.

How have rent prices in Brookline, MA changed recently?

The average rent in Brookline has decreased by 2.3% ($92) in the last month and increased by 7.7% ($279) over the past year.

How competitive is the rental market in Brookline, MA?

The rental market in Brookline, MA, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.

How long do rentals stay on the market in Brookline, MA?

In Brookline, MA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 38 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.

How many rental properties are available in Brookline, MA?

There is currently 1,232 rental property available in Brookline, MA.

Can I afford to rent a home in Brookline, MA?

Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $144,480 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Brookline.