Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Walnut Creek, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Walnut Creek are Lower Lakewood, Diablo Hills, and Saranap Area. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Walnut Creek, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 7, 2026, the average rent in Walnut Creek is $2,539, which is 3.1% 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.
Lower Lakewood
Average Rent
$2,229/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.2%
Units Available
35 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Walnut Creek neighborhood on a budget, check out Lower Lakewood. The average rent is $2,229, compared to the city average of $2,539. Rent prices have decreased by 5.2%. Lower Lakewood is convenient to Broadway Plaza, Howe Homestead Park, and San Francisco International.
Diablo Hills
Average Rent
$2,348/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
Units Available
11 Rentals
Diablo Hills is an affordable neighborhood in Walnut Creek with an average rent price of $2,348. Compare this to the city average of $2,539. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.9%. Diablo Hills provides easy access to Metro Oakland International, Ygnacio Plaza, and Gardens at Heather Farm.
Saranap Area
Average Rent
$2,486/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
Units Available
10 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Walnut Creek, Saranap Area might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,486, while the city’s average stands at $2,539. In the last year, prices have increased by 0.9%. Saranap Area is near Orinda, Old Times Bldg, and Mills College.
The Keys
Average Rent
$2,562/Month
Units Available
23 Rentals
The Keys is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in The Keys is $2,562 while the city average is $2,539. Residents enjoy convenient access to Concord, Lafayette Station, and Gardens at Heather Farm.
Downtown Walnut Creek
Average Rent
$2,987/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.1%
Units Available
158 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Walnut Creek neighborhood on a budget, check out Downtown Walnut Creek. The average rent is $2,987, compared to the city average of $2,539. Rent prices have increased by 1.1%. Downtown Walnut Creek is convenient to Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail, Saint Marys Coll. of Calif., and Pleasant Hill / Contra Costa Centre.
The Hill
Average Rent
$3,197/Month
Units Available
24 Rentals
The Hill is an affordable neighborhood in Walnut Creek with an average rent price of $3,197. Compare this to the city average of $2,539. The Hill provides easy access to Lindsay Wildlife Museum, Metro Oakland International, and Mills College.
Ready to make your move to Walnut Creek? 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.