Brooklyn, New York, is one of the five boroughs of New York City and is known for its arts and music history and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. While New York City is known for its high cost of living, certain neighborhoods in Brooklyn provide more affordable options without sacrificing the excitement of city life. Whether you work in Manhattan and want to live outside the city center or you’re looking for a more affordable, community-centric borough of New York, Brooklyn has something to offer everyone.
The five cheapest neighborhoods in Brooklyn in 2024 are:
Bushwick
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Brooklyn: $2,775/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Bushwick: $1,642/month
- Median Home Value in Bushwick: $749,500
Bushwick is known for its street art, eclectic nightlife, and a growing community of artists. Once an industrial area, Bushwick has transformed into one of Brooklyn's most exciting places to live. With a mix of lofts and renovated apartments, Bushwick is perfect for the free-spirited renter.
Things to do in Bushwick
Residents can enjoy a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries like the Bushwick Collective and Bottleneck Gallery scattered throughout the neighborhood. Maria Hernandez Park is a popular meeting spot for social gatherings and outdoor activities, with playgrounds, sports courts, and dog-friendly areas that welcome everyone. The neighborhood also boasts a diverse food scene, with an array of international restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy bars.
Transportation
The L, J, M, and Z trains provide easy access to Manhattan and other parts of Brooklyn. Numerous bus routes also connect the area, making commuting convenient.
Midwood
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Brooklyn: $2,775/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Midwood: $1,834/month
- Median Home Value in Midwood: $537,000
Midwood is a quiet neighborhood known for its historic architecture. Residents love the area for its safety and diverse community, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Things to do in Midwood
Residents of Midwood enjoy the serene atmosphere of Marine Park, perfect for walks and picnics. For a unique shopping experience, the area features a variety of specialty shops and bakeries that reflect Midwood’s diverse cultural heritage. Midwood is also just a short bus ride from Coney Island, where visitors can stroll down Riegelmann Boardwalk, ride rollercoasters at Luna Park, or explore the New York Aquarium.
Transportation
The Q train runs through Midwood, providing direct access to Manhattan. Additionally, several bus lines, including the B6, B11, and B49, make navigating to other parts of Brooklyn straightforward.
Flatbush-Ditmas Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Brooklyn: $2,775/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Flatbush-Ditmas Park: $1,981/month
- Median Home Value in Flatbush-Ditmas Park: $515,000
Founded by Dutch settlers in the 17th century, Flatbush-Ditmas Park is a historic district loved for its Victorian homes and charming streets. This area is located in the center of Brooklyn, so residents enjoy quick commutes to other parts of Brooklyn. With great schools, active nightlife, and easily accessible public transportation, Flatbush-Ditmas Park is a good place for anyone to live.
Things to do in Flatbush-Ditmas Park
The neighborhood is home to Brooklyn College and the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts, providing residents with ample cultural experiences. The Kings Theatre, a historic concert hall, is also in this neighborhood and frequently hosts concerts and shows. Cortelyou Road is lined with cafes, restaurants, and the Cortelyou Greenmarket, a popular year-round farmers market.
Transportation
The B and Q subway lines serve the area, facilitating easy access to Downtown Brooklyn and Manhattan. Bus lines like B103 and B41 offer additional commuting options.
Bedford-Stuyvesant
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Brooklyn: $2,775/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Bedford-Stuyvesant: $2,226/month
- Median Home Value in Bedford-Stuyvesant: $850,000
Bedford-Stuyvesant, often called Bed-Stuy, has a rich cultural history and is known for its stunning brownstones and community spirit. Many notable celebrities and public figures have lived in Bed-Stuy, including filmmaker Spike Lee, civil rights activist Malcolm X, and 90s rapper The Notorious B.I.G. With a rich colonial and modern history, there’s always something new to see in Bed-Stuy.
Things to do in Bed-Stuy
The Billie Holiday Theatre is a primary landmark in Bed-Stuy and regularly hosts concerts and shows. The Herbert Von King Park acts as a town square, with outdoor recreational areas for everyone and events at the Herbert Von King Cultural Arts Center. Visit Bedford Ave for international restaurants, local bars and cafes, and the “King of New York” mural honoring The Notorious B.I.G.
Transportation
Several subway lines, including the A, C, J, and Z trains serve Bed-Stuy. Numerous buses provide additional transit options.
Crown Heights
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Brooklyn: $2,775/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Crown Heights: $2,294/month
- Median Home Value in Crown Heights: $899,000
Crown Heights is a culturally diverse neighborhood known for its historic architecture and lively community events. Its brownstone row houses and locally-owned restaurants and shops give residents the classic New York feel while still outside the hubbub in Manhattan.
Things to do in Crown Heights
Crown Heights boasts attractions like the Brooklyn Museum and the Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket farmers market, providing residents with cultural richness and local charm. The annual West Indian Day Parade is a highlight for residents, celebrating the neighborhood's Caribbean heritage. Crown Heights also neighbors Prospect Park, a 526-acre park with landmarks like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Prospect Park Zoo.
Transportation
With access to the 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines, Crown Heights residents can easily travel to Manhattan and other Brooklyn neighborhoods. The B44 and B45 buses provide additional connections within the borough.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find an affordable apartment easily. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine. Once you find the perfect location, narrow the search within a price range that works for you.
No matter the budget, the options are endless with Apartments.com. Ready to get started? Pay less, live more, and rent on.
Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s June 2023 reports.
