Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Rochester are Charlotte, Maplewood, and Willowbrook. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Rochester, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of January 27, 2026, the average rent in Rochester is $1,303, which is 1.6% 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.
Charlotte
Average Rent
$1,117/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
TransitScore® Rating
29/100
Units Available
13 Rentals
Charlotte is a waterfront neighborhood offering scenic views of Lake Ontario and easy access to outdoor activities like boating and beachgoing. Renters will enjoy the relaxed, coastal vibe and proximity to the Charlotte Pier and Ontario Beach Park. The area is perfect for those seeking a mix of suburban living and lakeside recreation.
Maplewood
Average Rent
$1,192/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.2%
TransitScore® Rating
37/100
Units Available
49 Rentals
Maplewood is a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful, tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and proximity to Seneca Park Zoo and the Genesee River. This walkable neighborhood provides access to the Genesee River Trail, a scenic, 24-mile mixed-use trail.
Willowbrook
Average Rent
$1,195/Month
Units Available
12 Rentals
Willowbrook is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,195. Compare this to the city average of $1,303. Willowbrook provides easy access to Dewey-Latta Plaza, Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International, and Devil's Cove Park.
Upper Falls
Average Rent
$1,329/Month
TransitScore® Rating
55/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
Upper Falls is a historic neighborhood near downtown Rochester. Renters will appreciate the area’s rich history and convenient access to shopping, dining, and public transportation. The neighborhood is ideal for those looking for a central location with a community feel.
Gateway
Average Rent
$1,376/Month
Units Available
13 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Rochester, Gateway might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,376, while the city’s average stands at $1,303. Gateway is near Greece Canal Park, Seneca Park Zoo, and Univ. of Rochester, Mt. Hope.
Hickory Manor
Average Rent
$1,376/Month
Units Available
13 Rentals
Hickory Manor is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Hickory Manor is $1,376 while the city average is $1,303. Residents enjoy convenient access to University of Rochester Arboretum, Charisma Commons, and Colonial Plaza.
Wadsworth Square
Average Rent
$1,401/Month
TransitScore® Rating
61/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Rochester neighborhood on a budget, check out Wadsworth Square. The average rent is $1,401, compared to the city average of $1,303. Wadsworth Square is convenient to Highland Park and Lamberton Conservatory, Upper Falls Shopping Center, and Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 94.
Corn Hill
Average Rent
$1,493/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
6.3%
TransitScore® Rating
61/100
Units Available
13 Rentals
Corn Hill is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,493. Compare this to the city average of $1,303. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 6.3%. Corn Hill provides easy access to University of Rochester Arboretum, Monroe C.C., Damon City Campus, and Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 84.
South Wedge
Average Rent
$1,516/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.2%
TransitScore® Rating
46/100
Units Available
17 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Rochester, South Wedge might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,516, while the city’s average stands at $1,303. In the last year, prices have increased by 2.2%. South Wedge is near Retail at Vida, Monroe C.C., Damon City Campus, and Bull's Head Plaza.
Brown Square
Average Rent
$1,600/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
24 Rentals
Located just north of downtown, Brown Square is a close-knit, historical neighborhood located along the Genesee River. Parks dot the area, including Brown Square Park and the popular Jones Park, which offers a running track, a playground, and picnic areas beneath mature trees.
Ready to make your move to Rochester? 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.