Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Oakland are Grand Lake, Northeast Oakland Hills, and Piedmont Avenue. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Oakland, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of January 27, 2025, the average rent in Oakland is $2,040, which is 0.9% lower than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Grand Lake
Average Rent
$2,197/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
TransitScore® Rating
53/100
Units Available
34 Rentals
Grand Lake is an affordable neighborhood in Oakland with an average rent price of $2,197. Compare this to the city average of $2,040. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 0.9%. Grand Lake provides easy access to Lincoln University, Oakland, Laney College, and College of Alameda. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 93.
Northeast Oakland Hills
Average Rent
$2,255/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
Units Available
56 Rentals
Northeast Oakland Hills presents breathtaking views of the Bay Area, with numerous hiking trails for nature lovers. The neighborhood’s peaceful setting and spacious homes create an ideal retreat from city life. Local parks and recreational facilities offer plenty of outdoor activities for all ages.
Piedmont Avenue
Average Rent
$2,309/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.1%
TransitScore® Rating
58/100
Units Available
41 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Oakland, Piedmont Avenue might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,309, while the city’s average stands at $2,040. In the last year, prices have decreased by 0.1%. Piedmont Avenue is near The Ridge, Delaware Plaza, and Rockridge Station.
East Oakland
Average Rent
$2,456/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
TransitScore® Rating
58/100
Units Available
284 Rentals
With its rich history and cultural diversity, East Oakland offers a unique living experience for renters looking to settle down in the Bay Area. The area is well-known for its lively festivals and community gatherings, contributing to its tight-knit community feel. East Oakland also offers easy access to public transportation, making commuting throughout the city convenient and efficient.
Old Oakland
Average Rent
$2,457/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.1%
TransitScore® Rating
87/100
Units Available
33 Rentals
Old Oakland is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Old Oakland is $2,457 while the city average is $2,040. This is a 2.1% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Old Oakland, Swan's Marketplace, and Metro Oakland International. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 99.
Oakland Hills
Average Rent
$2,484/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.5%
TransitScore® Rating
55/100
Units Available
243 Rentals
Oakland Hills boasts stunning vistas and natural beauty, with numerous parks and trails for outdoor recreation. Its serene environment and expansive properties make it a tranquil escape from the city's urban center. However, Oakland Hill is only a short drive away from bustling downtown areas, giving residents a perfect blend of rural serenity and urban conveniences.
Jingletown
Average Rent
$2,493/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.4%
TransitScore® Rating
64/100
Units Available
24 Rentals
Right off the Oakland Estuary, Jingletown offers stunning waterfront views for an affordable price. This walkable neighborhood is known for its art scene, as it's home to numerous art studios and galleries, including the famous Gray Loft Gallery. The neighborhood also offers easy access to the Fruitvale BART station, ensuring seamless connectivity.
Chinatown
Average Rent
$2,636/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
10.2%
TransitScore® Rating
88/100
Units Available
125 Rentals
Oakland’s Chinatown is characterized by its bustling city streets, busy bike lanes, mural-painted brick buildings, and exotic culinary delights. Residents love this area for its intriguing shops and cultural landmarks, as well as its convenient public transit that makes exploring other parts of the city simple and straightforward.
Lakeside
Average Rent
$2,650/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.9%
TransitScore® Rating
87/100
Units Available
237 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Oakland neighborhood on a budget, check out Lakeside. The average rent is $2,650, compared to the city average of $2,040. Rent prices have decreased by 3.9%. Lakeside is convenient to Lake Merritt Station, Lincoln University, Oakland, and Pacific Renaissance. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 99.
Downtown Oakland
Average Rent
$2,666/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.5%
TransitScore® Rating
73/100
Units Available
1,055 Rentals
Downtown Oakland is an affordable neighborhood in Oakland with an average rent price of $2,666. Compare this to the city average of $2,040. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 0.5%. Downtown Oakland provides easy access to Lakeside Park Garden Center, Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail, and 12Th St Oakland City Center Station. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 92.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.