Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Charlotte are University, Mineral Springs, and Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Charlotte, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of April 29, 2025, the average rent in Charlotte is $1,491, which is 1.1% lower 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.

University

Average Rent

$1,483/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

1,226 Rentals

University stands out for its affordability and proximity to educational institutions. The University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides a lively atmosphere with cultural events and sports activities. University Place, a nearby shopping complex, offers diverse dining and retail options.

Mineral Springs

Average Rent

$1,488/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.4%

TransitScore® Rating

38/100

Units Available

521 Rentals

Mineral Springs offers budget-friendly living with access to parks and trails. Enjoy a stroll or bike ride through Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve, where scenic views abound. Plus, this neighborhood is filled with local shopping centers that provide convenient options for dining and daily necessities.

Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs

Average Rent

$1,618/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

20/100

Units Available

453 Rentals

Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs combines budget-friendly housing with ample recreational spaces. The nearby Mallard Creek Greenway offers extensive trails for biking and jogging, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the proximity to Concord Mills ensures easy access to shopping and entertainment.

Steele Creek

Average Rent

$1,658/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

7.7%

TransitScore® Rating

16/100

Units Available

423 Rentals

Steele Creek provides affordable living with a mix of natural and commercial amenities. McDowell Nature Preserve offers hiking trails and waterfront activities along Lake Wylie. Retail and dining options at the Rivergate shopping center are conveniently accessible.

South Charlotte

Average Rent

$1,694/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.9%

TransitScore® Rating

18/100

Units Available

1,930 Rentals

South Charlotte offers budget-conscious living with a range of recreational opportunities. McAlpine Creek Park features calming trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas. The neighborhood’s convenient access to Carolina Place Mall ensures that shopping and dining are always nearby.

North Charlotte

Average Rent

$1,729/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.3%

TransitScore® Rating

33/100

Units Available

1,832 Rentals

North Charlotte is an excellent choice for budget-friendly housing with accessible amenities. Northlake Mall offers a wide range of shopping and dining options. Ramsey Creek Park, with its beach and picnic areas, enhances the community’s appeal.

East Charlotte

Average Rent

$1,744/Month

TransitScore® Rating

29/100

Units Available

2,091 Rentals

East Charlotte appeals to renters with affordable housing and diverse amenities. Independence Park provides green spaces and sports facilities for relaxation and fun. Plus, the area boasts a variety of international restaurants and shops along Central Avenue.

NoDa

Average Rent

$1,779/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.3%

TransitScore® Rating

52/100

Units Available

701 Rentals

NoDa is an affordable neighborhood in Charlotte with an average rent price of $1,779. Compare this to the city average of $1,491. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 3.3%. NoDa provides easy access to Sugar Creek Station, Reedy Creek Nature Center & Preserve, and Central Piedmont C.C., Cato. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 68.

West Charlotte

Average Rent

$1,886/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.9%

TransitScore® Rating

30/100

Units Available

6,676 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Charlotte, West Charlotte might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,886, while the city’s average stands at $1,491. In the last year, prices have decreased by 3.9%. West Charlotte is near Charlotte Nature Museum, E-Corps Expeditions Inc., and Wesley Heights Citylynx.

York Road

Average Rent

$1,892/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.8%

TransitScore® Rating

48/100

Units Available

1,052 Rentals

York Road is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in York Road is $1,892 while the city average is $1,491. This is a -2.8% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Scaleybark, Tyvola, and Central Piedmont C.C., Central. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 45.

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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.