Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Tacoma are Woodland Glen, South End, and The Highlands. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Tacoma, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of November 8, 2025, the average rent in Tacoma is $1,483, which is 1.3% 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.
Woodland Glen
Average Rent
$1,318/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
Woodland Glen is an affordable neighborhood in Tacoma with an average rent price of $1,318. Compare this to the city average of $1,483. Woodland Glen provides easy access to Wards Lake Park, 8425 S Hosmer Retail, and Aladdin Center. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 50.
South End
Average Rent
$1,335/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
72 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.
The Highlands
Average Rent
$1,353/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, The Highlands might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,353, while the city’s average stands at $1,483. The Highlands is near Narrows Park, Hilltop District, and Tacoma Grocery Outlet.
Eastside
Average Rent
$1,390/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
18 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.
Oakland
Average Rent
$1,395/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
15 Rentals
Oakland is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Oakland is $1,395 while the city average is $1,483. Residents enjoy convenient access to St Joseph, 3612 Center St. Retail, and Tacoma General. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 50.
Midland
Average Rent
$1,443/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.4%
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
76 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.
Northeast Tacoma
Average Rent
$1,490/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
11.3%
TransitScore® Rating
1/100
Units Available
27 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.
Shore Country Club Estates
Average Rent
$1,589/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Tacoma neighborhood on a budget, check out Shore Country Club Estates. The average rent is $1,589, compared to the city average of $1,483. Shore Country Club Estates is convenient to Children's Museum of Tacoma, Theater District/South 9Th, and Highline Community College. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 20.
Links at Northshore the Condominium
Average Rent
$1,589/Month
TransitScore® Rating
0/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
Links at Northshore the Condominium is an affordable neighborhood in Tacoma with an average rent price of $1,589. Compare this to the city average of $1,483. Links at Northshore the Condominium provides easy access to Old City Hall, Foss Waterway Seaport, and North Shore Shopping Center. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 7.
Commencement Bay Vista
Average Rent
$1,596/Month
Units Available
19 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, Commencement Bay Vista might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,596, while the city’s average stands at $1,483. Commencement Bay Vista is near University of Puget Sound, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, and Tacoma Community College.
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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.