Cheapest Neighborhoods in Madison, WI
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Madison are Clarendon Hills, Hawthorne, and Burr Oaks. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Madison, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of June 23, 2026, the average rent in Madison is $1,521, which is 0.9% 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.
Clarendon Hills
Average Rent
$1,195/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Madison, Clarendon Hills might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,195, while the city’s average stands at $1,521. Clarendon Hills is near Essex Square, Edgewood University, and Madison Area Technical College.
Hawthorne
Average Rent
$1,196/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.3%
Units Available
16 Rentals
Hawthorne is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Hawthorne is $1,196 while the city average is $1,521. This is a 3.3% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Dane County Regional/Truax Field, Elvehjem Sanctuary, and Madison Area Technical College.
Burr Oaks
Average Rent
$1,202/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
8.3%
Units Available
44 Rentals
Burr Oaks is a quiet neighborhood near Madison's best parks, restaurants, shopping, and attractions. The cozy area is separated enough from downtown that residents can enjoy a sense of peaceful seclusion without losing the conveniences of city life.
Bram's Addition
Average Rent
$1,211/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
Units Available
39 Rentals
Bram's Addition in Madison, Wisconsin, offers budget-friendly apartments with convenient access to local parks and public transportation. The neighborhood is on the south side of Madison and is known for its historic single-family homes and residential, walkable streets.
Sherman
Average Rent
$1,254/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.7%
Units Available
156 Rentals
Sherman in Madison, Wisconsin, offers numerous inexpensive apartment options, perfect for those seeking budget-friendly living. The neighborhood boasts several parks and recreational facilities ideal for outdoor activities, as well as shopping and dining options.
Berkeley Oaks
Average Rent
$1,256/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3%
Units Available
13 Rentals
Berkeley Oaks is a scenic neighborhood next to Warner Park and Lake Mendota. With dog parks, beaches, and boat ramps, this neighborhood is perfect for residents who want to be near the waterfront. Additionally, a 15-minute drive into Downtown Madison provides nearby entertainment and dining.
Ridgewood
Average Rent
$1,384/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
Units Available
11 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Madison neighborhood on a budget, check out Ridgewood. The average rent is $1,384, compared to the city average of $1,521. Rent prices have increased by 0.9%. Ridgewood is convenient to Elvehjem Sanctuary, Herzing University, and Edgewood University.
South Madison
Average Rent
$1,390/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
Units Available
226 Rentals
South Madison extends along Highway 18 and offers affordable living with convenient access to several parks, shops, and restaurants, especially near the popular Alliant Energy Center. The neighborhood provides a mix of city and suburban life, located less than a mile from Downtown Madison and close to outdoor activities like hiking the Capital City Trail and boating on nearby lakes.
Carpenter-Ridgeway
Average Rent
$1,425/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
Units Available
106 Rentals
Carpenter-Ridgeway is an affordable neighborhood in Madison with an average rent price of $1,425. Compare this to the city average of $1,521. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.8%. Carpenter-Ridgeway provides easy access to Herzing University, Madison East Shopping Center, and Dane County Regional/Truax Field.
Eken Park
Average Rent
$1,504/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.7%
Units Available
37 Rentals
Eken Park in Madison, Wisconsin, stands out for its affordable apartment options, catering to cost-conscious renters. Public transportation is readily accessible, making commuting straightforward. Proximity to parks and shopping centers further enhances convenience and livability.
Ready to make your move to Madison? 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.