Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Detroit, MI
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Detroit are West Side Detroit, Tech Town, and Elmwood. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Detroit, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of April 13, 2025, the average rent in Detroit is $1,100, which is 0.3% 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.
West Side Detroit
Average Rent
$948/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
39/100
Units Available
112 Rentals
West Side Detroit is known for its budget-friendly rentals, easy access to downtown, and abundant community parks and recreational areas like Rouge Park, Bell Creek County Park, and Eliza Howell Park. The bustling commercial districts feature a mix of shops and eateries catering to diverse tastes. With affordable housing options, this neighborhood is perfect for renters seeking value and convenience.
Tech Town
Average Rent
$1,034/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
TransitScore® Rating
56/100
Units Available
61 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Detroit, Tech Town might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,034, while the city’s average stands at $1,100. In the last year, prices have decreased by 1.8%. Tech Town is near Midtown Detroit, Detroit Metro Wayne County, and Wayne County C.C., Downtown.
Elmwood
Average Rent
$1,042/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.8%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
42 Rentals
Elmwood is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Elmwood is $1,042 while the city average is $1,100. This is a -0.8% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Chene Park, Bricktown, and Rivertown Plaza. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 69.
East Side Detroit
Average Rent
$1,072/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
TransitScore® Rating
44/100
Units Available
123 Rentals
East Side Detroit is recognized for its convenient location and affordable prices. Close to the Coleman A. Young International Airport and downtown Detroit, this area offers residents endless adventure. Not to mention, it's also near the local waterfront, offering ample opportunities for outdoor leisure and recreation.
East Central
Average Rent
$1,073/Month
TransitScore® Rating
57/100
Units Available
74 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Detroit neighborhood on a budget, check out East Central. The average rent is $1,073, compared to the city average of $1,100. Rent prices have increased by 0%. East Central is convenient to Renaissance Center, Cadillac Center, and Campus Martius Park. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 78.
Jefferson
Average Rent
$1,093/Month
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
Units Available
45 Rentals
Jefferson offers picturesque views along the riverfront and convenient access to waterside trails. This neighborhood also features beautiful historic buildings and bungalows, reflecting the area's unique charm.
Uptown Detroit
Average Rent
$1,127/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.1%
TransitScore® Rating
42/100
Units Available
183 Rentals
Uptown Detroit presents a lively environment with affordable housing options. The neighborhood is close to the Michigan Science Center and the Detroit Public Library, as well as various local shops and restaurants.
Mexicantown
Average Rent
$1,227/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
TransitScore® Rating
45/100
Units Available
49 Rentals
Mexicantown is an affordable neighborhood in Detroit with an average rent price of $1,227. Compare this to the city average of $1,100. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.6%. Mexicantown provides easy access to Fort/Cass, Michigan Avenue, and Wayne State University Museum of Natural History. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 69.
New Center
Average Rent
$1,240/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.1%
TransitScore® Rating
53/100
Units Available
128 Rentals
New Center is the northern sector of Detroit's greater downtown. This area is characterized by its historic neighborhoods, diverse shopping and dining options, and local festivals. New Center also offers a range of affordable housing options, making it a great choice for budget-conscious renters.
Rivertown
Average Rent
$1,336/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
TransitScore® Rating
56/100
Units Available
42 Rentals
Rivertown is a trendy waterside area known for its unique housing options. It features former warehouses converted into chic lofts, as well as popular restaurants, bars, food trucks, and boutiques that distinguish the neighborhood from surrounding areas.
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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.