Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Tacoma are South End, Narrowmoor, and The Highlands. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Tacoma, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of February 7, 2026, the average rent in Tacoma is $1,491, which is 1.4% 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.
South End
Average Rent
$1,336/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
98 Rentals
South End is a diverse neighborhood offering affordable housing options and easy access to local schools and parks. Renters will enjoy the suburban atmosphere with convenient access to shopping and dining along Pacific Avenue. The area provides a quiet retreat while still being close to the excitement of Downtown Tacoma.
Narrowmoor
Average Rent
$1,359/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, Narrowmoor might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,359, while the city’s average stands at $1,491. Narrowmoor is near Tacoma Nature Center, Narrows Park, and St Joseph.
The Highlands
Average Rent
$1,370/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
The Highlands is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in The Highlands is $1,370 while the city average is $1,491. Residents enjoy convenient access to UW Tacoma, Hilltop District, and Clover Park Technical College. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 79.
Eastside
Average Rent
$1,374/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
27 Rentals
Eastside is a growing residential area known for its parks, schools, and community-focused vibe. Renters will appreciate the neighborhood’s proximity to Swan Creek Park and easy access to major highways. The area is perfect for those seeking affordable living with outdoor activities nearby.
Midland
Average Rent
$1,434/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
98 Rentals
Midland is a suburban neighborhood offering spacious homes and a quiet, residential atmosphere. Renters will enjoy the proximity to local schools, parks, and shopping centers. The area’s peaceful environment and convenient location near I-5 make it ideal for commuters.
Oakland
Average Rent
$1,441/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Tacoma neighborhood on a budget, check out Oakland. The average rent is $1,441, compared to the city average of $1,491. Oakland is convenient to Tacoma Nature Center, Center St. Retail, and Hilltop District. The community is somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 50.
Woodland Glen
Average Rent
$1,478/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
19 Rentals
Woodland Glen is an affordable neighborhood in Tacoma with an average rent price of $1,478. Compare this to the city average of $1,491. Woodland Glen provides easy access to UW Tacoma, Seeley Lake Park, and Union Station/South 19Th. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 50.
Village Commons
Average Rent
$1,630/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
13 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, Village Commons might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,630, while the city’s average stands at $1,491. Village Commons is near Seeley Lake Park, Pacific Square Shopping Center, and Seattle-Tacoma International.
Commencement Bay Vista
Average Rent
$1,639/Month
Units Available
17 Rentals
Commencement Bay Vista is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Commencement Bay Vista is $1,639 while the city average is $1,491. Residents enjoy convenient access to Tacoma Community College, S 4Th, and 26th St. Retail.
Northeast Tacoma
Average Rent
$1,641/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.7%
TransitScore® Rating
1/100
Units Available
20 Rentals
Northeast Tacoma offers scenic views of Puget Sound and a quiet suburban lifestyle. Renters will enjoy the proximity to Dash Point State Park and other outdoor recreational activities. The area is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to both Tacoma and Federal Way.
Ready to make your move to Tacoma? 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.