Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Columbia, SC
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Columbia are Skyview Terrace, Emerald Valley, and Cherokee Gardens. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Columbia, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of June 14, 2025, the average rent in Columbia is $1,222, which is 6.8% 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
$853/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 $853, compared to the city average of $1,222. Skyview Terrace is convenient to EdVenture Children's Museum, Harbison Environmental Education Forest, and University of South Carolina.
Emerald Valley
Average Rent
$861/Month
TransitScore® Rating
7/100
Units Available
87 Rentals
Emerald Valley is an affordable neighborhood in Columbia with an average rent price of $861. Compare this to the city average of $1,222. Emerald Valley provides easy access to Benedict College, Boozer Shopping center, and Columbia International Univ.. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 12.
Cherokee Gardens
Average Rent
$886/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
18 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Columbia, Cherokee Gardens might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $886, while the city’s average stands at $1,222. Cherokee Gardens is near Right Direction Business Center, Columbia Metro, and EdVenture Children's Museum.
Riverside Park
Average Rent
$901/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
107 Rentals
Riverside Park is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Riverside Park is $901 while the city average is $1,222. Residents enjoy convenient access to Melton Memorial Observatory, Dutch Square Mall, and South Carolina State Museum. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 13.
Landmark at Pine Court
Average Rent
$967/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Columbia neighborhood on a budget, check out Landmark at Pine Court. The average rent is $967, compared to the city average of $1,222. Landmark at Pine Court is convenient to University of South Carolina, South Carolina State Museum, and Melton Memorial Observatory. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 36.
Bentley at Broad River
Average Rent
$967/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
Bentley at Broad River is an affordable neighborhood in Columbia with an average rent price of $967. Compare this to the city average of $1,222. Bentley at Broad River provides easy access to Riverbanks Botanical Garden, Melton Memorial Observatory, and Columbia International Univ.. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 41.
Mill at Broad River
Average Rent
$967/Month
TransitScore® Rating
27/100
Units Available
12 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 $967, while the city’s average stands at $1,222. Mill at Broad River is near Melton Memorial Observatory, South Carolina State Museum, and Benedict College.
Riverside Forest
Average Rent
$984/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
Riverside Forest is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Riverside Forest is $984 while the city average is $1,222. Residents enjoy convenient access to South Carolina State Museum, Columbia Metro, and River Center. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 10.
Springwood Lake Development
Average Rent
$1,031/Month
Units Available
12 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Columbia neighborhood on a budget, check out Springwood Lake Development. The average rent is $1,031, compared to the city average of $1,222. Springwood Lake Development is convenient to Melton Memorial Observatory, University of South Carolina, and Columbia International Univ..
Far North Columbia
Average Rent
$1,051/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
TransitScore® Rating
3/100
Units Available
28 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.
Ready to make your move to Columbia? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!
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.