Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Cambridge, MA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Cambridge are Inman Square, Riverside, and Mid-Cambridge. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Cambridge, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 5, 2025, the average rent in Cambridge is $3,278, which is 2.7% higher 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.
Inman Square
Average Rent
$2,672/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.2%
TransitScore® Rating
79/100
Units Available
61 Rentals
Inman Square is the perfect spot for budget-conscious renters. With an array of affordable eateries, green spaces, and entertainment options, this area provides a well-rounded living experience for residents. Some local favorites include The Lilypad for entertainment and Moona and Pita Cambridge for dining.
Riverside
Average Rent
$2,904/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.2%
TransitScore® Rating
76/100
Units Available
177 Rentals
Riverside, also known as "Area 7", is a neighborhood rich in history and culture. It's home to the popular Hoyt Field, a great spot for outdoor activities. The neighborhood also boasts affordable housing options near the Charles River, offering scenic views.
Mid-Cambridge
Average Rent
$2,910/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
78/100
Units Available
282 Rentals
Mid-Cambridge is a centrally located neighborhood with easy access to both Harvard and MIT. It's home to the Cambridge Public Library, a historic landmark. The neighborhood offers a range of affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for students.
Neighborhood Nine
Average Rent
$2,919/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.7%
TransitScore® Rating
68/100
Units Available
203 Rentals
Neighborhood Nine combines affordability with accessibility, all while hosting some of the city's most beloved spots. This area is home to Danehy Park and the Cambridge Common, perfect for affordable recreation and leisure. Local boutiques and cafes also make daily living both enjoyable and economical in this budget-friendly, feel-good neighborhood.
Wellington-Harrington
Average Rent
$2,970/Month
TransitScore® Rating
73/100
Units Available
107 Rentals
Wellington-Harrington delivers affordable housing options with a tight-knit neighborhood feel. Residents love this area for its walkability and array of multicultural and locally-owned businesses. They also enjoy its diverse housing landscape, which includes options ranging from historic, colonial-style buildings to newly constructed properties.
Aggasiz
Average Rent
$2,981/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
TransitScore® Rating
73/100
Units Available
185 Rentals
Aggasiz, also known as Baldwin or Harvard North, is a neighborhood rich in history and culture. It's home to the Harvard Museum of Natural History, a popular attraction among locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood also offers a range of affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for students.
North Cambridge
Average Rent
$3,001/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
68/100
Units Available
125 Rentals
Budget-conscious renters will appreciate North Cambridge's affordable living options. Alewife Brook Parkway and nearby parks offer great outdoor activities, while local diners serve as popular spots for enjoying inexpensive meals. When you live here, adventure will be right outside your doorstep.
Porter Square
Average Rent
$3,039/Month
TransitScore® Rating
71/100
Units Available
105 Rentals
Porter Square is a lively neighborhood with a range of budget-friendly eateries. It's home to the Porter Square Shopping Center, a popular spot for shopping, and the Porter Square Station, making commuting a breeze for residents. Here, renters will enjoy the urban allure of Cambridge without the high costs.
West Cambridge
Average Rent
$3,125/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.9%
TransitScore® Rating
59/100
Units Available
122 Rentals
Centrally located in the city's commercial district, West Cambridge has everything a renter could want. This famous shopping, dining, and entertainment hub is known for its lively atmosphere and convenient access to Harvard Square and its namesake metro station.
Strawberry Hill
Average Rent
$3,214/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
12.1%
TransitScore® Rating
47/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
Strawberry Hill is a quiet residential neighborhood with various affordable housing options. It's home to the Fresh Pond Reservation, which hosts well-kept golf courses, playgrounds, and other recreational facilities. The neighborhood also has easy access to the Fresh Pond Mall, offering a range of shopping options for renters.
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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.