Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Knoxville, TN

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Knoxville are Uptown Knoxville, Marble City, and West Knoxville. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Knoxville, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 6, 2026, the average rent in Knoxville is $1,329, which is 1.5% 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.

Uptown Knoxville

Average Rent

$1,250/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.9%

Units Available

154 Rentals

Known for its central location, Uptown Knoxville is located between I-275 and North Broadway. The neighborhood is filled with historical and affordable housing options. Uptown Knoxville provides easy access to the Knoxville Museum of Art as well as a variety of shops, parks, and breweries.

Marble City

Average Rent

$1,412/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

3.7%

Units Available

38 Rentals

Located near the Tennessee River, Marble City is home to several parks, including Third Creek Greenway Park and John Tarleton Park. Affordable apartments and 19th-century mansions line the tree-shaded streets, creating a picturesque atmosphere. Marble City is known for its fantastic dining scene, with restaurants serving everything from BBQ to Ethiopian.

West Knoxville

Average Rent

$1,466/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.9%

Units Available

407 Rentals

West Knoxville is a beautiful neighborhood with scenic mountain views. Residents enjoy easy access to some of Knoxville’s favorite destinations, such as Turkey Creek shopping district. Nearby parks like Westview Park provide outdoor recreation like hiking and picnicking.

North Knoxville

Average Rent

$1,525/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.1%

Units Available

453 Rentals

North Knoxville's historic charm is matched by budget-friendly rental options. The neighborhood is a stone's throw from Happy Holler, known for its quirky shops and unique dining experiences. Head to Old North Knoxville and enjoy the historic mansions and shady streets. Walking trails in Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park provide scenic escapes.

Fort Sanders

Average Rent

$1,526/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.2%

Units Available

27 Rentals

Nestled adjacent to the University of Tennessee, Fort Sanders offers a mix of historic architecture and budget-friendly rentals. Just a short stroll from World’s Fair Park, residents can enjoy outdoor recreation and cultural events. With its proximity to downtown, it's easy to explore Market Square's dining and entertainment options.

Morningside

Average Rent

$1,658/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.8%

Units Available

34 Rentals

Morningside offers a quiet residential atmosphere with easy access to its namesake park, as well as the Tennessee River, the Morningside Greenway, and the James White Greenway. The neighborhood enjoys proximity to the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum.

Old Sevier

Average Rent

$1,790/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

7.5%

Units Available

31 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Knoxville neighborhood on a budget, check out Old Sevier. The average rent is $1,790, compared to the city average of $1,329. Rent prices have decreased by 7.5%. Old Sevier is convenient to 125-139 E Moody Ave, Three Rivers Rambler, and UT Knoxville.

South Knoxville

Average Rent

$1,796/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.7%

Units Available

132 Rentals

South Knoxville is an affordable neighborhood in Knoxville with an average rent price of $1,796. Compare this to the city average of $1,329. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 0.7%. South Knoxville provides easy access to The Shoppes of South Traders Landing, Mead's Quarry Park, and Marble Springs State Historic Farmstead.

Emory Place

Average Rent

$1,846/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.1%

Units Available

10 Rentals

The Emory Place Historic District is a small, triangular neighborhood just north of downtown. Residents appreciate the neighborhood's closeness to Old City Knoxville, famous for its nightlife and arts scene. Emory Place is a charming community filled with historic buildings, antique stores, and a variety of restaurants.

Downtown Knoxville

Average Rent

$1,885/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.5%

Units Available

267 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Knoxville, Downtown Knoxville might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,885, while the city’s average stands at $1,329. In the last year, prices have decreased by 1.5%. Downtown Knoxville is near UT Knoxville, Marine Park (Tennessee River), and McGhee Tyson.

Ready to make your move to Knoxville? 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.