Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Grand Rapids are East Leonard Heights, Millbrook, and West Grand Rapids. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Grand Rapids, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 17, 2026, the average rent in Grand Rapids is $1,365, which is 2.3% 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.

East Leonard Heights

Average Rent

$1,122/Month

TransitScore® Rating

33/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids, East Leonard Heights might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,122, while the city’s average stands at $1,365. East Leonard Heights is near Leonard Fuller Plaza, Beckwith Center, and Gerald R Ford International.

Millbrook

Average Rent

$1,266/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.7%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

12 Rentals

Millbrook is a quiet, suburban neighborhood offering spacious homes and easy access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the peaceful environment and proximity to major shopping centers. The area provides a cozy retreat while still being close to city conveniences.

West Grand Rapids

Average Rent

$1,296/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

1/100

Units Available

92 Rentals

West Grand mixes city life and natural beauty. Richmond Park covers 57 acres and provides cross-country skiing trails, hiking and biking trails, and a swimming pool. Renters can choose from a variety of architectural styles, including historic and mid-century homes. Beautiful, affordable, and friendly, renters choosing West Grand enjoy a welcoming community close to everything.

Madison Area

Average Rent

$1,321/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

47/100

Units Available

18 Rentals

Madison Area is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Madison Area is $1,321 while the city average is $1,365. This is a -0.4% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Grand Rapids Public Museum, John Ball Zoo, and Grand Rapids Community College. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 84.

Westside Connection

Average Rent

$1,399/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

23 Rentals

Westside Connection is a popular neighborhood offering a mix of residential homes and commercial areas with easy access to parks and schools. Renters will enjoy the convenient location near shopping and dining options, as well as the peaceful suburban feel.

Northville

Average Rent

$1,406/Month

Units Available

19 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Grand Rapids neighborhood on a budget, check out Northville. The average rent is $1,406, compared to the city average of $1,365. Northville is convenient to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Aquinas College, and Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.

Treemont Condominiums

Average Rent

$1,406/Month

Units Available

19 Rentals

Treemont Condominiums is an affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids with an average rent price of $1,406. Compare this to the city average of $1,365. Treemont Condominiums provides easy access to Cornerstone University, Grand Rapids Children's Museum, and Great Northern Plaza.

Highland Park

Average Rent

$1,427/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.2%

TransitScore® Rating

37/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

Highland Park is a historic neighborhood featuring tree-lined streets and proximity to local parks and schools. Renters will appreciate the quiet, residential atmosphere and easy access to downtown Grand Rapids.

North Quarter

Average Rent

$1,440/Month

TransitScore® Rating

36/100

Units Available

24 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids, North Quarter might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,440, while the city’s average stands at $1,365. North Quarter is near Grand Rapids Community College, Aquinas College, and Gerald R Ford International.

Heritage Hill

Average Rent

$1,450/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.7%

TransitScore® Rating

59/100

Units Available

12 Rentals

Heritage Hill is one of Grand Rapids' most historic neighborhoods, known for its beautiful, preserved homes and tree-lined streets. Renters will enjoy the proximity to downtown and the historic architecture. The neighborhood is ideal for those who appreciate history and charm in a central location.

Ready to make your move to Grand Rapids? 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.