Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Madison, WI
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Madison are Burr Oaks, Brentwood Village, and Hawthorne. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Madison, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of May 9, 2026, the average rent in Madison is $1,514, which is 1.2% 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.
Burr Oaks
Average Rent
$1,222/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4%
Units Available
30 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.
Brentwood Village
Average Rent
$1,225/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.8%
Units Available
14 Rentals
Brentwood Village is an affordable neighborhood in Madison with an average rent price of $1,225. Compare this to the city average of $1,514. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 0.8%. Brentwood Village provides easy access to Edgewood University, Lakewood Plaza, and University of Wisconsin.
Hawthorne
Average Rent
$1,235/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
Units Available
16 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Madison, Hawthorne might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $1,235, while the city’s average stands at $1,514. In the last year, prices have increased by 3.2%. Hawthorne is near Sandburg Woods, Edgewood University, and East Prairie Commons.
Bram's Addition
Average Rent
$1,253/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
Units Available
26 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.
Meadowood
Average Rent
$1,255/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
Units Available
12 Rentals
Meadowood is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Meadowood is $1,255 while the city average is $1,514. This is a 1.3% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Meadowood Plaza, University of Wisconsin, and Knollwood Conservation Park.
Berkeley Oaks
Average Rent
$1,295/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.8%
Units Available
22 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.
Greentree
Average Rent
$1,335/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Madison neighborhood on a budget, check out Greentree. The average rent is $1,335, compared to the city average of $1,514. Greentree is convenient to North Country National Scenic Trail, Edgewood University, and Prairie Ridge Conservation Park.
Sherman
Average Rent
$1,362/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.8%
Units Available
170 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.
Ridgewood
Average Rent
$1,375/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.6%
Units Available
10 Rentals
Ridgewood is an affordable neighborhood in Madison with an average rent price of $1,375. Compare this to the city average of $1,514. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 0.6%. Ridgewood provides easy access to East Prairie Commons, Edgewood University, and University of Wisconsin.
South Madison
Average Rent
$1,420/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
Units Available
247 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.
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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.