Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Cambridge, MA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Cambridge are Huron Village, Mid-Cambridge, and Inman Square. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Cambridge, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 17, 2026, the average rent in Cambridge is $3,283, which is 0% 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.
Huron Village
Average Rent
$2,761/Month
TransitScore® Rating
53/100
Units Available
27 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Cambridge neighborhood on a budget, check out Huron Village. The average rent is $2,761, compared to the city average of $3,283. Huron Village is convenient to Fresh Pond Shopping Center, Harvard Square Station, and Star's at Cambridge. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 86.
Mid-Cambridge
Average Rent
$2,850/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3%
TransitScore® Rating
78/100
Units Available
185 Rentals
Mid-Cambridge is a centrally located neighborhood with easy access to both Harvard and MIT. It's home to the Cambridge Public Library, a historic landmark. The neighborhood offers a range of affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for students.
Inman Square
Average Rent
$2,887/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
TransitScore® Rating
79/100
Units Available
33 Rentals
Inman Square is the perfect spot for budget-conscious renters. With an array of affordable eateries, green spaces, and entertainment options, this area provides a well-rounded living experience for residents. Some local favorites include The Lilypad for entertainment and Moona and Pita Cambridge for dining.
Porter Square
Average Rent
$3,004/Month
TransitScore® Rating
71/100
Units Available
53 Rentals
Porter Square is a lively neighborhood with a range of budget-friendly eateries. It's home to the Porter Square Shopping Center, a popular spot for shopping, and the Porter Square Station, making commuting a breeze for residents. Here, renters will enjoy the urban allure of Cambridge without the high costs.
West Cambridge
Average Rent
$3,024/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6%
TransitScore® Rating
59/100
Units Available
43 Rentals
Centrally located in the city's commercial district, West Cambridge has everything a renter could want. This famous shopping, dining, and entertainment hub is known for its lively atmosphere and convenient access to Harvard Square and its namesake metro station.
Neighborhood Nine
Average Rent
$3,040/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.6%
TransitScore® Rating
68/100
Units Available
145 Rentals
Neighborhood Nine combines affordability with accessibility, all while hosting some of the city's most beloved spots. This area is home to Danehy Park and the Cambridge Common, perfect for affordable recreation and leisure. Local boutiques and cafes also make daily living both enjoyable and economical in this budget-friendly, feel-good neighborhood.
Aggasiz
Average Rent
$3,105/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
73/100
Units Available
99 Rentals
Aggasiz, also known as Baldwin or Harvard North, is a neighborhood rich in history and culture. It's home to the Harvard Museum of Natural History, a popular attraction among locals and visitors alike. The neighborhood also offers a range of affordable housing options, making it a popular choice for students.
Riverside
Average Rent
$3,164/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
TransitScore® Rating
76/100
Units Available
116 Rentals
Riverside, also known as "Area 7", is a neighborhood rich in history and culture. It's home to the popular Hoyt Field, a great spot for outdoor activities. The neighborhood also boasts affordable housing options near the Charles River, offering scenic views.
North Cambridge
Average Rent
$3,262/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7%
TransitScore® Rating
68/100
Units Available
66 Rentals
Budget-conscious renters will appreciate North Cambridge's affordable living options. Alewife Brook Parkway and nearby parks offer great outdoor activities, while local diners serve as popular spots for enjoying inexpensive meals. When you live here, adventure will be right outside your doorstep.
Harvard Square
Average Rent
$3,320/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.6%
TransitScore® Rating
80/100
Units Available
33 Rentals
Harvard Square is an affordable neighborhood in Cambridge with an average rent price of $3,320. Compare this to the city average of $3,283. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 2.6%. Harvard Square provides easy access to Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, Central Square Station, and Harvard University. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 98.
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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.