Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Durham, NC
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Durham are Duke Homestead, South Square, and Hillandale. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Durham, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 5, 2025, the average rent in Durham is $1,400, which is 2.3% 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.
Duke Homestead
Average Rent
$1,235/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.9%
TransitScore® Rating
31/100
Units Available
79 Rentals
Duke Homestead is a historic neighborhood offering close proximity to its namesake historic site. Renters will find a mix of residential options, with easy access to downtown Durham and shopping areas like North Pointe Shopping Center. The neighborhood’s quiet streets and green spaces create a peaceful living environment.
South Square
Average Rent
$1,385/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.3%
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
163 Rentals
South Square is a bustling commercial hub with a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The neighborhood’s central location makes it convenient for commuting. Renters can enjoy quick access to downtown Durham as well as nearby parks like Sandy Creek Park.
Hillandale
Average Rent
$1,395/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.1%
TransitScore® Rating
35/100
Units Available
147 Rentals
Hillandale is a well-established neighborhood offering a mix of suburban living and easy access to Duke University and downtown. Renters will enjoy the nearby Hillandale Golf Course and several parks for recreation. The area’s proximity to major roads makes commuting simple.
Eastern Durham
Average Rent
$1,442/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.5%
TransitScore® Rating
7/100
Units Available
124 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Durham neighborhood on a budget, check out Eastern Durham. The average rent is $1,442, compared to the city average of $1,400. Rent prices have decreased by 0.5%. Eastern Durham is convenient to Blue Jay Center for Environmental Education, Ravenstone Commons, and Blue Jay Point County Park. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 19.
East Durham
Average Rent
$1,458/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.1%
TransitScore® Rating
16/100
Units Available
254 Rentals
East Durham is an affordable neighborhood in Durham with an average rent price of $1,458. Compare this to the city average of $1,400. In the past year, rent prices have decreased by 0.1%. East Durham provides easy access to Ravenstone Commons, North Carolina Museum of Life and Science, and Duke University. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 26.
Woodcroft
Average Rent
$1,472/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
198 Rentals
Woodcroft is a popular residential neighborhood known for its extensive trail system and access to green spaces. Renters will appreciate this area's community feel, along with its proximity to Southpoint Mall and local schools. They'll also enjoy the area's expansive selection of single-family homes and apartments.
Duke Forest
Average Rent
$1,512/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2%
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
224 Rentals
Duke Forest is a tranquil neighborhood surrounded by the scenic woodlands of its namesake. Here, you'll find expansive nature trails and ample outdoor activities while still being close to Duke University and downtown Durham. The area’s quiet charm makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment.
RTP
Average Rent
$1,554/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.5%
TransitScore® Rating
17/100
Units Available
569 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Durham, RTP might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,554, while the city’s average stands at $1,400. In the last year, prices have decreased by 3.5%. RTP is near William B. Umstead State Park, Duke Gardens, and Creekstone Crossings.
South Durham
Average Rent
$1,589/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4%
TransitScore® Rating
22/100
Units Available
1,207 Rentals
South Durham is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in South Durham is $1,589 while the city average is $1,400. This is a -4% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Duke University, Sutton Station, and Duke Gardens. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 27.
West End Durham
Average Rent
$1,591/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.9%
TransitScore® Rating
45/100
Units Available
170 Rentals
West End Durham is a unique area with a mix of historic charm and new developments. Renters can explore the local art scene and enjoy proximity to downtown Durham’s restaurants and nightlife. The neighborhood’s parks and green spaces, such as Maplewood Park, add to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
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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.