Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Charlotte are University, Mineral Springs, and Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Charlotte, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 12, 2025, the average rent in Charlotte is $1,478, which is 0.6% 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.
University
Average Rent
$1,481/Month
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
1,268 Rentals
University stands out for its affordability and proximity to educational institutions. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides a lively atmosphere with cultural events and sports activities. University Place, a nearby shopping complex, offers diverse dining and retail options.
Mineral Springs
Average Rent
$1,515/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.3%
TransitScore® Rating
38/100
Units Available
564 Rentals
Mineral Springs offers budget-friendly living with access to parks and trails. Enjoy a stroll or bike ride through Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve, where scenic views abound. Plus, this neighborhood is filled with local shopping centers that provide convenient options for dining and daily necessities.
Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs
Average Rent
$1,581/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.7%
TransitScore® Rating
20/100
Units Available
456 Rentals
Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs combines budget-friendly housing with ample recreational spaces. The nearby Mallard Creek Greenway offers extensive trails for biking and jogging, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the proximity to Concord Mills ensures easy access to shopping and entertainment.
Steele Creek
Average Rent
$1,605/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.8%
TransitScore® Rating
16/100
Units Available
423 Rentals
Steele Creek provides affordable living with a mix of natural and commercial amenities. McDowell Nature Preserve offers hiking trails and waterfront activities along Lake Wylie. Retail and dining options at the Rivergate shopping center are conveniently accessible.
South Charlotte
Average Rent
$1,669/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.1%
TransitScore® Rating
18/100
Units Available
1,854 Rentals
South Charlotte offers budget-conscious living with a range of recreational opportunities. McAlpine Creek Park features calming trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. The neighborhood’s convenient access to Carolina Place Mall ensures that shopping and dining are always nearby.
North Charlotte
Average Rent
$1,695/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
1,893 Rentals
North Charlotte is an excellent choice for budget-friendly housing with accessible amenities. Northlake Mall offers a wide range of shopping and dining options. Ramsey Creek Park, with its beach and picnic areas, enhances the community’s appeal.
East Charlotte
Average Rent
$1,726/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.8%
TransitScore® Rating
29/100
Units Available
2,027 Rentals
East Charlotte appeals to renters with affordable housing and diverse amenities. Independence Park provides green spaces and sports facilities for relaxation and fun. Plus, the area boasts a variety of international restaurants and shops along Central Avenue.
NoDa
Average Rent
$1,802/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.8%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
616 Rentals
NoDa is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in NoDa is $1,802 while the city average is $1,478. This is a -6.8% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to RibbonWalk Nature Preserve, 36 & NoDa, and Johnson & Wales U., Charlotte. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 68.
West Charlotte
Average Rent
$1,849/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
TransitScore® Rating
30/100
Units Available
6,445 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Charlotte neighborhood on a budget, check out West Charlotte. The average rent is $1,849, compared to the city average of $1,478. Rent prices have decreased by 1.8%. West Charlotte is convenient to Wing Haven Gardens & Bird Sanctuary, Johnson C Smith University, and Concord-Padgett Regional. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 29.
York Road
Average Rent
$1,864/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.4%
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
746 Rentals
York Road is an affordable neighborhood in Charlotte with an average rent price of $1,864. Compare this to the city average of $1,478. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 3.4%. York Road provides easy access to Evergreen Nature Preserve, Crosland Centre, and Car Care Center. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 45.
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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.