Diplomas but No Door Keys

Danielle Aiken

Editor in Chief

For many college graduates, landing a first apartment is proving almost as challenging as earning their degree. Skyrocketing rent prices and a shortage of affordable units are forcing young adults to choose between living with roommates, commuting long distances, or putting off moving out altogether.

In Massachusetts alone, many recent graduates struggle with repayment while attempting to secure housing that often exceeds $2,500 per month, not including additional expenses. There are two prime challenges graduates end up facing: growing disparity between high rent prices and low minimum wage. The challenge is accompanied by increasing student loan debt, now reaching $1.77 trillion in 2025. (See edition FALL 2025 1.3 for more details).

Massachusetts is one of the top 10 most expensive states in the U.S., with median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in 2025 estimated at $2,500. Many recent graduates face the challenge of attributing over 30% of their income on housing—far beyond the generally accepted threshold for affordable housing.

Furthermore, the state’s minimum wage of $15.00 per hour does not provide sufficient income to meet these high costs, particularly in areas like Boston, where rent prices are expected to increase by 1.5% from 2025 to 2026. This mismatch between wages and housing costs strengthens the affordability crisis.

I wish to specifically highlight the insufficiency of state resources, particularly on the Massachusetts government’s website (mass.gov), which only provides limited support for graduates seeking affordable housing. While the site provides general housing information, it lacks specific aid programs tailored to new graduates or any young adult. In turn, it forces them to rely on personal networks or other informal channels to find housing. The absence of dedicated resources for graduates proves the difficulty of navigating the housing market.

However, as I try to leave things on a lighter note, there is some upside. State and local programs offer some relief, but sometimes, demand often exceeds supply.

The Massachusetts Homeless Youth Services network provides emergency and transitional housing, while the Youth Transitioning to Success Program and Foster Youth to Independence Program offer rental assistance and support for young adults leaving foster care. Advocates for these programs often encourage recent graduates to explore these resources and apply early.

Economic experts say personal strategies can help, too. Budgeting aggressively, considering roommates, and looking outside high-demand neighborhoods can make a real difference. Securing strong credit and a steady work history can also improve chances of landing a lease. If you are not familiar with how to do these things, Assumption has the resources to help you.

Some cities are even experimenting with policy solutions aimed at increasing supply. Massachusetts has made it easier for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, and inclusionary zoning rules now require some developers to include affordable units in new projects. Housing advocates urge young adults to attend city meetings and push for policies that expand affordable rentals.

Nontraditional housing options, such as co-living arrangements or micro-apartments, are gaining traction in the state’s urban centers, while some nonprofits offer supported living programs targeted at young adults.

Finding a first apartment in Massachusetts remains a steep challenge for recent college graduates. High rents, low wages and limited state support leave many relying on roommates, longer commutes or informal networks to secure housing. While state and local programs, nontraditional housing options and policy experiments offer some relief, economic experts say broader changes and increased funding are needed to make housing truly affordable for young adults. For now, graduates must navigate the market with careful planning and persistence, showing that in Massachusetts, landing a place to live can be almost as difficult as earning a degree.