Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Columbia, SC
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Columbia are Skyview Terrace, Emerald Valley, and Riverside Park. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Columbia, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 13, 2026, the average rent in Columbia is $1,158, which is 0.3% 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.
Skyview Terrace
Average Rent
$870/Month
Units Available
12 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Columbia neighborhood on a budget, check out Skyview Terrace. The average rent is $870, compared to the city average of $1,158. Skyview Terrace is convenient to Heartbreakers Shopping Center, Columbia International Univ., and Allen University.
Emerald Valley
Average Rent
$942/Month
TransitScore® Rating
7/100
Units Available
46 Rentals
Emerald Valley is an affordable neighborhood in Columbia with an average rent price of $942. Compare this to the city average of $1,158. Emerald Valley provides easy access to South Carolina State Museum, Allen University, and Boozer Shopping center. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 12.
Riverside Park
Average Rent
$954/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
68 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Columbia, Riverside Park might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $954, while the city’s average stands at $1,158. Riverside Park is near Riverbanks Botanical Garden, Columbia International Univ., and EdVenture Children's Museum.
The Chimneys at Brookfield
Average Rent
$961/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
The Chimneys at Brookfield is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in The Chimneys at Brookfield is $961 while the city average is $1,158. Residents enjoy convenient access to Decker Village, University of South Carolina, and McKissick Museum. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 51.
Landmark at Pine Court
Average Rent
$987/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
20 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Columbia neighborhood on a budget, check out Landmark at Pine Court. The average rent is $987, compared to the city average of $1,158. Landmark at Pine Court is convenient to Columbia International Univ., South Carolina State Museum, and Broad River Centre. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 36.
Bentley at Broad River
Average Rent
$987/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
20 Rentals
Bentley at Broad River is an affordable neighborhood in Columbia with an average rent price of $987. Compare this to the city average of $1,158. Bentley at Broad River provides easy access to Allen University, University of South Carolina, and Columbia Metro. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 41.
Mill at Broad River
Average Rent
$987/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
20 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Columbia, Mill at Broad River might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $987, while the city’s average stands at $1,158. Mill at Broad River is near University of South Carolina, Riverbanks Zoo, and Columbia Metro.
Springwood Lake Development
Average Rent
$1,001/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
Springwood Lake Development is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Springwood Lake Development is $1,001 while the city average is $1,158. Residents enjoy convenient access to South Carolina State Museum, Benedict College, and Corner shops.
Far North Columbia
Average Rent
$1,048/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
TransitScore® Rating
3/100
Units Available
35 Rentals
Far North Columbia is a flourishing suburban area offering a wide range of housing choices, perfect for renters of all lifestyles. The neighborhood is characterized by its peaceful surroundings, providing residents with easy access to parks and schools, which are highly appreciated by locals. With shopping and dining options nearby at the popular Village at Sandhill, it's an ideal location for those who seek a quiet lifestyle without sacrificing the convenience of city amenities.
St Andrews
Average Rent
$1,118/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
TransitScore® Rating
8/100
Units Available
248 Rentals
St Andrews is a well-established neighborhood known for its spacious homes and access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the proximity to shopping centers along Harbison Boulevard and easy access to I-26. The area provides a suburban feel with plenty of recreational opportunities.
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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.