Most apartments were not renting for $2000 a month 20 years ago.
The average rent for an apartment in Boston is $3,772. The cost of rent varies depending on several factors, including location, size, and quality. https://www.rentcafe.com/average-rent-market-trends/us/ma/boston/
When my wife left Newton 20 years ago her rent was $2000/month for a one bedroom.