Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Tacoma are Eastside, Midland, and South Tacoma. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Tacoma, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 16, 2025, the average rent in Tacoma is $1,458, which is 1% 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.

Eastside

Average Rent

$1,340/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.2%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

22 Rentals

Eastside is a growing residential area known for its parks, schools, and community-focused vibe. Renters will appreciate the neighborhood’s proximity to Swan Creek Park and easy access to major highways. The area is perfect for those seeking affordable living with outdoor activities nearby.

Midland

Average Rent

$1,422/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.1%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

83 Rentals

Midland is a suburban neighborhood offering spacious homes and a quiet, residential atmosphere. Renters will enjoy the proximity to local schools, parks, and shopping centers. The area’s peaceful environment and convenient location near I-5 make it ideal for commuters.

South Tacoma

Average Rent

$1,456/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.6%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

230 Rentals

South Tacoma is a bustling neighborhood offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Renters will appreciate the proximity to the Tacoma Mall and local parks.

South End

Average Rent

$1,487/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.7%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

89 Rentals

South End is a diverse neighborhood offering affordable housing options and easy access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the suburban atmosphere with convenient access to shopping and dining along Pacific Avenue. The area provides a quiet retreat while still being close to the excitement of Downtown Tacoma.

Waller

Average Rent

$1,653/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.3%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

3 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Tacoma neighborhood on a budget, check out Waller. The average rent is $1,653, compared to the city average of $1,458. Rent prices have decreased by 1.3%. Waller is convenient to Convention Center/South 15Th, Pacific Lutheran University, and Union Station/South 19Th. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 15.

Northeast Tacoma

Average Rent

$1,661/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.2%

TransitScore® Rating

1/100

Units Available

27 Rentals

Northeast Tacoma offers scenic views of Puget Sound and a quiet suburban lifestyle. Renters will enjoy the proximity to Dash Point State Park and other outdoor recreational activities. The area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to both Tacoma and Federal Way.

Central

Average Rent

$1,728/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.8%

TransitScore® Rating

1/100

Units Available

109 Rentals

Central Tacoma’s historic homes along tree-lined streets make it a very popular neighborhood. It is minutes from downtown and is considered much more affordable than living in the city center. Residents enjoy the variety of coffee shops, restaurants, bars, and stores located along walkable 6th Avenue.

West End

Average Rent

$1,776/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.2%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

201 Rentals

West End is an affordable neighborhood in Tacoma with an average rent price of $1,776. Compare this to the city average of $1,458. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.2%. West End provides easy access to Ruston Way Park, Stadium District, and Narrows Park. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 65.

Frederickson

Average Rent

$1,917/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.1%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

22 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, Frederickson might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,917, while the city’s average stands at $1,458. In the last year, prices have increased by 3.1%. Frederickson is near Commerce Street Station, St Joseph, and Seattle-Tacoma International.

Downtown Tacoma

Average Rent

$1,923/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.8%

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

267 Rentals

Downtown Tacoma is a bustling urban center offering a mix of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions like the Museum of Glass and the Washington State History Museum. Renters will appreciate the variety of housing options, from modern apartments to historic lofts. The area is perfect for those seeking a vibrant city lifestyle in a walkable neighborhood with easy access to public transit.

Ready to make your move to Tacoma? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!

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.