Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Rochester are Willowbrook, Maplewood, and Stalhams Baker. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Rochester, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of October 28, 2025, the average rent in Rochester is $1,300, which is 2.9% 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.

Willowbrook

Average Rent

$1,166/Month

Units Available

15 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Rochester neighborhood on a budget, check out Willowbrook. The average rent is $1,166, compared to the city average of $1,300. Willowbrook is convenient to Irondequoit Bay Marine Park, Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International, and Univ. of Rochester, Mt. Hope.

Maplewood

Average Rent

$1,167/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.3%

TransitScore® Rating

37/100

Units Available

48 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.

Stalhams Baker

Average Rent

$1,167/Month

TransitScore® Rating

0/100

Units Available

12 Rentals

Stalhams Baker is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,167. Compare this to the city average of $1,300. Stalhams Baker provides easy access to Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International, Seneca Park Zoo, and Irondequoit Bay Marine Park. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 42.

Charlotte

Average Rent

$1,207/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.5%

TransitScore® Rating

29/100

Units Available

14 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.

Upper Falls

Average Rent

$1,261/Month

TransitScore® Rating

55/100

Units Available

14 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.

Wadsworth Square

Average Rent

$1,378/Month

TransitScore® Rating

61/100

Units Available

11 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Rochester, Wadsworth Square might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,378, while the city’s average stands at $1,300. Wadsworth Square is near Upper Falls Shopping Center, Univ. of Rochester, Medical, and Univ. of Rochester, Eastman.

Gateway

Average Rent

$1,397/Month

Units Available

13 Rentals

Gateway is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Gateway is $1,397 while the city average is $1,300. Residents enjoy convenient access to Elmgrove Crossings, Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International, and Seneca Park Zoo.

Hickory Manor

Average Rent

$1,397/Month

Units Available

13 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Rochester neighborhood on a budget, check out Hickory Manor. The average rent is $1,397, compared to the city average of $1,300. Hickory Manor is convenient to Seneca Park Zoo, Charisma Commons, and University of Rochester Arboretum.

High Falls

Average Rent

$1,420/Month

TransitScore® Rating

65/100

Units Available

20 Rentals

High Falls is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,420. Compare this to the city average of $1,300. High Falls provides easy access to Strong National Museum of Play, Upper Falls Shopping Center, and Bull's Head Plaza. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 73.

Brown Square

Average Rent

$1,497/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.1%

TransitScore® Rating

52/100

Units Available

10 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.

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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.