Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina! Known for its captivating city life, rich history, and southern charm, Charlotte is a city that's sure to pique your interest. Enticing as it sounds, it’s no secret that big-city living can come with an even bigger price tag. The diverse culture, bustling social life, and ever-present entertainment often come with a cost: your housing price.
While finding an apartment close to all the excitement can be expensive, it is possible to work, play, and rent at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list to help you experience Charlotte’s best without breaking the bank.
The 5 cheapest neighborhoods in Charlotte, NC, are:
East Forest
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Charlotte: $1,416/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in East Forest: $1,117/month
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Median Home Value in East Forest: $$422,000
East Forest is a neighborhood that's got it all - it's affordable, family-friendly, and conveniently located. With just over four thousand residents, this quaint neighborhood serves families and professionals with excellent schools and easy access to Uptown Charlotte. Getting around from here is easy with CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System) bus routes serving the area and proximity to I-74.
Things to do in East Forest, NC
Residents of East Forest love how homey this neighborhood feels. Locals enjoy strolls through tree-lined sidewalks, sun-soaked parks, public libraries, and an active community of neighbors. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the beautiful McAlpine Creek Park, which offers hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, and picnic shelters. For shopping and dining, locals can take a short drive to the Arboretum Shopping Center, which offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
University
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Charlotte: $1,416/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in University: $1,323/month
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Median Home Value in University: $363,000
University is a bright, youthful neighborhood located in the northeastern part of Charlotte. Known for its mix of residential and educational spaces, University offers a unique blend of city living and college-town charm. The LYNX Blue Line light rail system and several bus routes serve the neighborhood, providing convenient access to downtown Charlotte.
Things to do in University, NC
"University City” surrounds the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and is consistently teeming with activity. Explore the areas around University City Blvd, which feature a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visit the nearby Reedy Creek Nature Center and Preserve, which offers hiking trails and nature exhibits. On the way home, check out local brewing companies and ice cream shops tucked into cozy corners of the neighborhood.
Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Charlotte: $1,416/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs: $1,378/month
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Median Home Value in Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs: $430,000
Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs is a historic neighborhood located in the northeastern part of Charlotte. Known for its beautiful architecture and green spaces, Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs offers a peaceful retreat from the quick pace of the city. The neighborhood is served by several bus routes and easy access to I-85 and 485, providing convenient access to downtown Charlotte.
Things to do in Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs, NC
Residents describe Mallard Creek-Withrow Downs as one of the best places to live in North Carolina. The area feels strongly suburban but is just fifteen minutes from downtown Charlotte. Visit the historic Mallard Creek Greenway, which features beautiful trails for walking and biking. Enjoy shopping and dining at the Shoppes at University Place, which offers a variety of local boutiques and restaurants. This area is a hub for working professionals, as many Fortune 500 companies have headquarters there.
Mineral Springs
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Charlotte: $1,416/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Mineral Springs: $1,334/month
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Median Home Value in Mineral Springs: $345,000
Situated just east of downtown, Mineral Springs is one of Charlotte's oldest neighborhoods. Known for its historic charm and beautiful park, Mineral Springs is a well-established community with a rich history. The neighborhood is served by CATS bus routes, providing easy access to downtown Charlotte.
Things to do in Mineral Springs, NC
Mineral Springs is renowned for its beautiful 188-acre park, the Ribbonwalk Nature Preserve. Stroll by the water or read a novel out in the sun. Near University City, there is no shortage of entertainment in this neighborhood. Enjoy all the restaurants, bars, and shopping centers this trendy part of town offers.
Steele Creek
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Charlotte: $1,416/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Steele Creek: $1,260/month
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Median Home Value in Steele Creek: $455,000
Located in the southwestern part of Charlotte, Steele Creek is a bustling neighborhood known for its mix of residential, commercial, and office spaces. It's a major business district, with several Fortune 500 companies having offices here. The area is well-served by CATS bus routes, making commuting a breeze.
Things to do in Steele Creek, NC
This neighborhood gets its name from the small stream that flows through the area and into South Carolina. Near the town center, locals enjoy shopping at the Premium Outlets, which feature over 100 stores. Visit the nearby McDowell Nature Center and Preserve for hiking, fishing, and boating, then dine at one of the many restaurants in the neighborhood on your way home.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com
Whether you're planning a short-term stay or looking to settle down, 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 to a price range that works for you.
No matter your 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 January 2024 reports
