Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, MI

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Grand Rapids are East Leonard Heights, Wingate, and Madison Area. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Grand Rapids, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of June 14, 2025, the average rent in Grand Rapids is $1,344, which is 3.5% 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

$1,124/Month

TransitScore® Rating

33/100

Units Available

17 Rentals

East Leonard Heights is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in East Leonard Heights is $1,124 while the city average is $1,344. Residents enjoy convenient access to Calvin College, Gerald R Ford International, and Grand Rapids Children's Museum. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 64.

Wingate

Average Rent

$1,159/Month

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

15 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Grand Rapids neighborhood on a budget, check out Wingate. The average rent is $1,159, compared to the city average of $1,344. Wingate is convenient to Calvin College Observatory, Davenport University, and Ada Township Park. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 22.

Madison Area

Average Rent

$1,268/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

48/100

Units Available

16 Rentals

Madison Area is an affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids with an average rent price of $1,268. Compare this to the city average of $1,344. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 0.4%. Madison Area provides easy access to Madison Square Shopping Mall, Seymour Square Shopping Center, and Wealthy Street Plaza. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 84.

Heritage Hill

Average Rent

$1,284/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

59/100

Units Available

17 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.

Northeast Grand Rapids

Average Rent

$1,314/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4%

TransitScore® Rating

31/100

Units Available

38 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Northeast Grand Rapids might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,314, while the city’s average stands at $1,344. In the last year, prices have increased by 4%. Northeast Grand Rapids is near Beckwith Center, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium.

Millbrook

Average Rent

$1,315/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

5.6%

TransitScore® Rating

28/100

Units Available

22 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.

North Quarter

Average Rent

$1,340/Month

TransitScore® Rating

36/100

Units Available

24 Rentals

North Quarter is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in North Quarter is $1,340 while the city average is $1,344. Residents enjoy convenient access to Highland Park, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 77.

Highland Park

Average Rent

$1,356/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.6%

TransitScore® Rating

37/100

Units Available

15 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.

Brook Hollow

Average Rent

$1,359/Month

Units Available

10 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Grand Rapids neighborhood on a budget, check out Brook Hollow. The average rent is $1,359, compared to the city average of $1,344. Brook Hollow is convenient to Breton Meadows, Grand Rapids Community College, and Calvin College Observatory.

East Hills

Average Rent

$1,366/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

45/100

Units Available

11 Rentals

East Hills is a trendy, walkable neighborhood known for its mix of historic homes, boutiques, and local eateries. Renters will appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and easy access to downtown Grand Rapids. The area’s lively arts and dining scene makes it a popular destination.

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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.