Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Tacoma, WA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Tacoma are South End, Eastside, and Midland. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Tacoma, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 25, 2026, the average rent in Tacoma is $1,499, which is 1.9% 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
$1,352/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.2%
Units Available
101 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.
Eastside
Average Rent
$1,421/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
Units Available
26 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
$1,428/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.2%
Units Available
106 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.
Woodland Glen
Average Rent
$1,460/Month
Units Available
19 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Tacoma, Woodland Glen might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,460, while the city’s average stands at $1,499. Woodland Glen is near Pacific Lutheran University, Theater District, and UW Tacoma.
Oakland
Average Rent
$1,504/Month
Units Available
14 Rentals
Oakland is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Oakland is $1,504 while the city average is $1,499. Residents enjoy convenient access to University of Puget Sound, 6Th Ave, and UW Tacoma.
Bayview Park Estates
Average Rent
$1,529/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Tacoma neighborhood on a budget, check out Bayview Park Estates. The average rent is $1,529, compared to the city average of $1,499. Bayview Park Estates is convenient to Westgate South Shopping Center, University of Puget Sound, and Westgate North Shopping Center.
South Tacoma
Average Rent
$1,557/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.8%
Units Available
227 Rentals
South Tacoma is a bustling neighborhood offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces, with easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Renters will appreciate the proximity to the Tacoma Mall and local parks.
Commencement Bay Vista
Average Rent
$1,589/Month
Units Available
27 Rentals
Commencement Bay Vista is an affordable neighborhood in Tacoma with an average rent price of $1,589. Compare this to the city average of $1,499. Commencement Bay Vista provides easy access to Ruston Way Park, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, and 6Th Ave.
Northeast Tacoma
Average Rent
$1,596/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.5%
Units Available
26 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.
Village Commons
Average Rent
$1,626/Month
Units Available
11 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 $1,626, while the city’s average stands at $1,499. Village Commons is near Hilltop District, Pacific Square Shopping Center, and Pacific Lutheran University.
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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.