Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Columbia, SC
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Columbia are Far North Columbia, Outer East Central, and Elmwood Park. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Columbia, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 30, 2025, the average rent in Columbia is $1,152, which is 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.
Far North Columbia
Average Rent
$1,019/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.4%
TransitScore® Rating
3/100
Units Available
34 Rentals
Far North Columbia is a flourishing suburban area offering a wide range of housing choices, perfect for renters of all lifestyles. The neighborhood is characterized by its peaceful surroundings, providing residents with easy access to parks and schools, which are highly appreciated by locals. With shopping and dining options nearby at the popular Village at Sandhill, it's an ideal location for those who seek a quiet lifestyle without sacrificing the convenience of city amenities.
Outer East Central
Average Rent
$1,115/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.5%
TransitScore® Rating
9/100
Units Available
15 Rentals
Outer East Central offers a mix of residential homes and access to local parks, and shopping centers like Granby Park and Richland Mall. Renters will enjoy the proximity to downtown Columbia and major highways, making commuting easy. This area provides a suburban retreat with the added benefit of city accessibility, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between quiet living and urban convenience.
Elmwood Park
Average Rent
$1,116/Month
TransitScore® Rating
47/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Columbia, Elmwood Park might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,116, while the city’s average stands at $1,152. In the last year, prices have increased by 0%. Elmwood Park is near Melton Memorial Observatory, McKissick Museum, and Sunset Place.
St Andrews
Average Rent
$1,144/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.7%
TransitScore® Rating
8/100
Units Available
271 Rentals
St Andrews is a well-established neighborhood known for its spacious homes and access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the proximity to shopping centers along Harbison Boulevard and easy access to I-26. The area provides a suburban feel with plenty of recreational opportunities.
Fort Jackson
Average Rent
$1,176/Month
TransitScore® Rating
4/100
Units Available
21 Rentals
Fort Jackson is a military-focused neighborhood offering convenient access to the base and nearby amenities. Renters will appreciate the proximity to local schools, shopping centers, and outdoor recreation areas. Fort Jackson combines a sense of community with practical amenities, making it a desirable place to live for renters.
Arthurtown
Average Rent
$1,218/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.8%
TransitScore® Rating
2/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
Arthurtown is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Arthurtown is $1,218 while the city average is $1,152. This is a 4.8% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Shoppes at Rosewood, McKissick Museum, and Midlands Technical College. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 28.
Laurel Hill
Average Rent
$1,306/Month
TransitScore® Rating
23/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
Laurel Hill is a residential neighborhood offering spacious homes and tree-lined streets. Residents enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while being conveniently close to local parks and shopping centers like Columbiana Centre and the scenic Riverfront Park. This neighborhood is perfect for families and professionals seeking a serene suburban lifestyle with easy access to city amenities.
Hopkins Suburban
Average Rent
$1,330/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.8%
TransitScore® Rating
14/100
Units Available
74 Rentals
Hopkins Suburban offers a quiet, friendly atmosphere with easy access to local schools and parks. In Hopkins Suburban, residents benefit from easy access to major roadways like Garners Ferry Road, which facilitates convenient commuting to downtown Columbia. For outdoor activities, residents can enjoy nearby parks, such as Congaree National Park, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.
Wildewood
Average Rent
$1,373/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.1%
TransitScore® Rating
1/100
Units Available
39 Rentals
Wildewood is a prestigious neighborhood known for its golf courses, spacious homes, and scenic landscapes. The neighborhood combines suburban comfort with the convenience of nearby top-rated schools and shopping centers like Sparkleberry Square. With its resort-like amenities and easy access to downtown Columbia, Wildewood offers a perfect blend of luxury and practicality.
Greek Village
Average Rent
$1,376/Month
TransitScore® Rating
45/100
Units Available
8 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Columbia neighborhood on a budget, check out Greek Village. The average rent is $1,376, compared to the city average of $1,152. Greek Village is convenient to Parkland Plaza, Columbia Metro, and University of South Carolina. The community is somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 60.
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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.