Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Rochester, NY
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Rochester are Charlotte, Maplewood, and Cobbs Hill. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Rochester, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of April 30, 2026, the average rent in Rochester is $1,336, which is 2.1% 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
$1,197/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.9%
Units Available
11 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
$1,227/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.8%
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.
Cobbs Hill
Average Rent
$1,324/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
Units Available
10 Rentals
Cobbs Hill is known for Cobbs Hill Park, a large park that encompasses two lakes: Cobbs Hill Reservoir and Lake Riley. This scenic, 109-acre park is filled with lilacs and large oak trees, providing a beautiful location for outdoor activities. Cobbs Hill is southeast of Downtown Rochester, with easy access to I-490 for easy commutes.
Highland District
Average Rent
$1,420/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.3%
Units Available
18 Rentals
Located along the Genesee River, Highland District is a scenic neighborhood near Highland Park, offering residents access to beautiful walking trails and seasonal events like the Lilac Festival. It's also the location of the University of Rochester and the beautiful Sunken Garden. Renters will enjoy the quiet, tree-lined streets and easy access to downtown Rochester.
Upper Falls
Average Rent
$1,469/Month
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.
South Wedge
Average Rent
$1,591/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.6%
Units Available
28 Rentals
South Wedge is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,591. Compare this to the city average of $1,336. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 2.6%. South Wedge provides easy access to Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, Lamberton Conservatory, and Rochester Museum & Science Center.
Strong
Average Rent
$1,594/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
Units Available
38 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Rochester, Strong might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,594, while the city’s average stands at $1,336. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.9%. Strong is near Frederick Douglass/Greater Rochester International, Strong National Museum of Play, and Mt. Hope Plaza.
Corn Hill
Average Rent
$1,595/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.4%
Units Available
15 Rentals
Corn Hill is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Corn Hill is $1,595 while the city average is $1,336. This is a 4.4% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, Retail at Vida, and Upper Falls Shopping Center.
Lyell-Otis
Average Rent
$1,689/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.4%
Units Available
16 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Rochester neighborhood on a budget, check out Lyell-Otis. The average rent is $1,689, compared to the city average of $1,336. Rent prices have increased by 2.4%. Lyell-Otis is convenient to Hardwood Commons Shopping Center, Univ. of Rochester, Mt. Hope, and Lyell Shopping Center.
Downtown Rochester
Average Rent
$1,697/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.2%
Units Available
384 Rentals
Downtown Rochester is an affordable neighborhood in Rochester with an average rent price of $1,697. Compare this to the city average of $1,336. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 2.2%. Downtown Rochester provides easy access to Univ. of Rochester, Mt. Hope, Highland Park and Lamberton Conservatory, and Shoppes at Lac De Ville.
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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.