Berclair, Riverside, Oakhaven, Parkway Village, and Hickory Hill are some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Memphis. These neighborhoods allow renters to save on housing costs while still finding lifestyle preferences to suit their needs.
Deals on rent can be found in Memphis if you look in the right areas. According to data from Apartment List, these neighborhoods offer below-average starting rents and still offer Memphis living. Here’s where your money stretches in the city of soul.
We examined October 2025 renter data across Memphis neighborhoods, using Apartment Lists’ real-time listings and supplemental rent data from Rent.com. While we considered factors such as schools, safety, and other amenities, which are important to many renters, they weren’t included in our core ranking criteria. However, we’ve highlighted those factors so renters can find their ideal neighborhood in Memphis.
Rent figures reflect what renters are paying in Memphis as of October 2025 and are based on real-time listings from our platform.
To be considered, a neighborhood had to have:
The results are rankings rooted in data.
Apartment List collects active listings and survey responses to build a monthly picture of market conditions. At the center of this data collection is the Apartment List rent report, which contains a weighted measure of median rents across bedroom sizes, which are also seasonally adjusted to highlight price changes over time.
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our Memphis rent data, we also used external sources, including local MLS feeds and rent data from Rent.com. The figures in this guide reflect the most recent data available, as of October 2025.
As of October 2025, the median rent in Memphis is $1,073, a 2.2% decline year-over-year and a 0.4% decrease since September. These declines are much steeper than the national U.S. average, which shows a 0.8% decline year-over-year.
Here’s how Memphis stacks up against the national median:
| Bedrooms | Memphis Median Rent | U.S. Median Rent |
|---|---|---|
| One Bedroom | $896 | $1,224 |
| Two Bedrooms | $1,016 | $1,379 |
| Overall | $1,073 | $1,394 |
Renters in Memphis spend around 23% less per month when compared to the overall media. Cities with similar rent prices include Oklahoma City, OK ($1,102) and Cincinnati, OH ($1,072).
We’ve ranked Memphis’s most affordable neighborhoods in 2026 by lowest average rent. These five neighborhoods make the cut for their starting rents and overall value.
We compared each neighborhood's average rent to the current citywide average one-bedroom rent of $1,180 to calculate the percentage savings.
| Neighborhood | Average One-Bedroom Rent | Average Two-Bedroom Rent | Citywide Average One-Bedroom Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Berclair | $700 | $825 | $1,180 |
| Riverside | $700 | $1,300 | $1,180 |
| Oakhaven | $750 | $845 | $1,180 |
| Parkway Village | $780 | $860 | $1,180 |
| Hickory Hill | $910 | $1,045 | $1,180 |
Berclair, Riverside, Oakhaven, and Parkway Village fall well below the citywide average of $1,180. They all offer savings rates ranging from 33.9% to 40.7% on rent, making them the most affordable areas in the city.
Each neighborhood offers a unique living environment, value, and access to city amenities, allowing renters to choose the best one for their lifestyles.
In East Memphis, just north of Summer Avenue, Berclair is one of the city’s most budget-friendly enclaves, offering renters well below the city’s average rent of $1,180 for a one-bedroom. One-bedrooms start around $700, while two-bedrooms go for about $825, which offers renters a savings of more than 40% compared to the Memphis average. The area features a mix of older single-story apartment complexes and small homes converted into rentals, appealing to those who want affordable living within a short drive of Midtown and the University of Memphis.
While Berclair’s walk and transit scores are low, its bikeability and easy access to Summer Avenue make commuting simple for renters with cars. Local grocery stores, auto shops, and family-owned eateries line the main corridor, keeping essentials close by. It’s a quiet, residential part of town that offers solid value for students, young workers, or anyone seeking low-cost rent without leaving city limits.
Set along the Mississippi River just south of Downtown, Riverside combines affordability with strong walkability, which is a rare mix in Memphis. Rents here start at $700 for one-bedroom units and $1,300 for two-bedroom units, placing it more than 40% below the citywide average for one-bedroom units. The neighborhood’s proximity to major employers, riverfront parks, and downtown nightlife makes it appealing to renters who value both convenience and savings.
With a walk score of 71 and decent transit connections, Riverside allows many residents to live car-light. The area’s mix of older brick apartments, townhomes, and new projects offers options for nearly every budget. Add in river views, bike paths, and easy access to I-55, and Riverside stands out as one of Memphis’s most livable and affordable near-downtown neighborhoods.
Located near the Memphis International Airport and major logistics centers, Oakhaven offers some of the lowest rents in the metro area. One-bedroom apartments average $750, and two-bedrooms hover around $845, roughly 36% below the city average for one-bedroom units. Garden-style complexes and small duplexes dominate the area, with many offering quick access to jobs in distribution and transportation, making it a practical choice for renters working nearby.
Though Oakhaven’s walk score is low, its affordability and proximity to Airways Boulevard and I-240 make commuting to other parts of the city straightforward. Renters here trade walkability for larger spaces and quieter surroundings. For those seeking a no-frills, value-driven neighborhood near major employers, Oakhaven remains one of Memphis’s most economical options.
Located in southeast Memphis, Parkway Village gives renters affordability with slightly more convenience than similarly priced areas. One-bedroom units average $780, while two-bedrooms come in around $860, which is roughly 34% below the citywide average for one-bedrooms. The neighborhood features a range of mid-century apartments and small single-family rentals, offering renters flexibility in price and space.
The area’s moderate transit and bike scores make it accessible to nearby shopping centers and employment corridors along Getwell and Perkins. While Parkway Village has seen periods of reinvestment and redevelopment, it remains a go-to neighborhood for renters seeking practical pricing with easy access to Midtown, the airport, and East Memphis job centers.
In southeast Memphis, Hickory Hill offers larger apartment communities and townhome-style rentals at prices still well below the city average. One-bedrooms lease for about $910 and two-bedrooms for $1,045, which is nearly 23% under typical Memphis rates for one-bedrooms. The area has many modern complexes with updated amenities, which attract families and long-term renters seeking more space.
Hickory Hill’s location near Winchester Road and Bill Morris Parkway provides quick access to shopping, restaurants, and major employers. While the neighborhood is more car-dependent, many communities feature on-site gyms, pools, and gated entryways that enhance everyday convenience. For renters seeking affordability and a suburban feel, Hickory Hill offers a comfortable balance of price and livability.
Whether access to shopping corridors, affordable rent prices, or commute times are at the top of your priority list, our list of the most affordable Memphis neighborhoods offers a range of trade-offs. Some areas are suitable for families, while others appeal to those seeking a metropolitan vibe with access to city amenities and major job centers.
Below, we’ve summarized the key lifestyle factors that can make or break a neighborhood for renters in 2026.
Like many major cities, Memphis struggles with traffic congestion, making daily commutes a drag. Below, we’ll share commute times from the cheapest Memphis neighborhoods to key job centers like Downtown, Midtown, and East Memphis.
| Neighborhood | To Downtown | To Midtown/UofM | To East Memphis/I-40 | Transit Options | Major Road Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berclair | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Limited direct bus service, Bus Lines 35, 34, 7, and 16 | Summer Ave, Lamar Ave, I-240 accessible |
| Riverside | 10 minutes | 12 minutes | 2 minutes | Bus Lines 12 and 39 | Riverside Dr, I-55, access to bridges |
| Oakhaven | 21 minutes | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | Bus Lines 6, 12, 36, 39, and 57 | Airways Blvd, I-240 |
| Parkway Village | 25 minutes | 15 minutes | 10 minutes | Bus Lines 16 and 36, Transfer often required | Getwell Rd, Perkins Rd, access to I-240 |
| Hickory Hill | 26 minutes | 21 minutes | 15 minutes | Bus Line 2, 16, and 36, Transfer often required | Winchester Rd, Bill Morris Pkwy |
Memphis’s average crime grade is an F, with most areas of the city seeing high rates of reported incidents. Total violent crime sits at 10.83 per 1,000 residents, and property crime is 38.64 per 1,000 residents.
The city has an overall walk score of 35, meaning most residents will need to own a car to complete their errands. Below, we break down how each of Memphis’s most affordable areas compares when it comes to feeling secure and getting around on foot.
| Neighborhood | Crime Rate Index | Walk Score |
|---|---|---|
| Berclair | Below average | 33 (most errands require a car) |
| Riverside | Below average | 71 (most errands can be done on foot) |
| Oakhaven | Below average | 3 (almost all errands require a car) |
| Parkway Village | Below average | 21 (almost all errands require a car) |
| Hickory Hill | Below average | 23 (almost all errands require a car) |
Fast internet, nearby essentials, and neighborhood character can make or break the renter experience. Below, we highlight fiber-optic coverage (defined as high-speed broadband via fiber cables with 1 Gbps+ speeds), plus each area’s closest grocery store, hospital, and park. We’ve also spotlighted local gems—those standout spots that give each neighborhood its own flavor.
| Neighborhood | Fiber Coverage | Nearest Major Grocery | Nearest Hospital | Top Park | Local Gems |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Berclair | 40.24% | Kroger, Walmart Supercenter | Saint Francis Hospital (Park Avenue) | Gaisman Park & Community Center | Local BBQ, soul food eateries, and proximity to Highland Strip shopping |
| Riverside | 78.44% | Kroger, Grocers on riverfront | Saint Francis Hospital or Baptist Memorial near downtown | Martin Luther King Jr. Riverside Park & The Links at Riverside | Riverwalk trails, local galleries, and downtown nearby |
| Oakhaven | 31.93% | Walmart, Kroger | Methodist or regional clinics closer to airport corridor | Oakhaven Park | Quick access to airport, quiet residential area |
| Parkway Village | 31.93% | Kroger, Aldi | Methodist LeBonheur or Baptist East | Nearby green spaces or pocket parks along Perkins/Getwell corridors | Shopping plaza, Los Comales Mexican Bar & Grill, Reese’s Bar-B-Q |
| Hickory Hill | 8.63% | Kroger, Target | Baptist South or regional health centers | Hickory Hill Park & Community Center | A&R Barbeque, Shopping center |
It’s nice to snag an affordable apartment, but there are other Memphis-specific expenses to consider before you sign a lease.
Most Memphis residents depend on a vehicle for transportation, whether for a work commute or daily errands. Average one-way commutes are 21.7 minutes, which is shorter than the national U.S. average of 26.4 minutes.
Memphis is a car-centric city, and most residents depend on personal vehicles for daily travel. Commute times average 28 minutes, and while highways are toll-free, parking fees (especially downtown) can add up. Roads are toll-free, but parking in the city can set you back anywhere from $0.50 for one hour to over $10 for 24 hours. Public transit options include MATA (Memphis Area Transit Authority), which provides both bus and trolley routes. Day passes for the trolley and bus are available for $2 or $1 for a base fare.
Summer conditions in Memphis are known to heat up, and parts of the city experience an urban heat island effect. Utility bills are also typically higher during summer months, and renters can expect to spend an average of 20% to 40% more during these months.
Rates depend on your home's energy efficiency and your provider's rates.
Memphis is an affordable city with an average cost of living 14.2% lower than the U.S. average. Most expenses are just below the national average price (groceries, health, utilities, and transportation), but miscellaneous expenses are a small 0.2% above the national average. Tennessee also doesn’t have an individual income tax.
Other expenses vary but are typically reasonable. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant (three-course) costs around $75, and a gym membership costs around $25.40 per month.
Affordable rental units in Memphis can move fast. Having all your documents ready and being ready to apply can help you secure a lease with cheaper rent. Here are the top tips:
Take advantage of properties offering 3D walkthroughs or live video tours. These tours make it easy to “visit” a listing and either submit your application or cross it off your list. It can help you be more productive without wasting your time.
Neighborhoods with higher competition, like Riverside, East Memphis, and Midtown, are harder to land. We recommend having your documents ready, such as references, official ID, and proof of income, so you can submit them during your visit.
Never assume the listed rent price is set in stone. Ask landlords about move-in specials or other discounts, such as signing a longer lease or waiving fees for same-day applications. If you have good credit and flexibility, you may be able to save some money.
Demand for rentals typically dips in winter, from December through February, when fewer renters are moving. This makes winter an excellent time to negotiate and ask for waived fees, move-in specials, or lower rent prices.
If you have some flexibility, the best time to rent an apartment is generally between December and February.
Memphis’s compact layout means that moving just a few miles from Downtown can save you hundreds a month. Neighborhoods like Berclair, Oakhaven, or Parkway Village offer steep rent discounts while keeping you within 20 minutes of most major employers. Apartment List’s interactive map and filters make it easy to spot these underpriced areas that still offer solid commutes.
If you want to increase the odds of landing a great rental deal in Memphis, you can use a renters' trick. Set your maximum rent filter to around 10% below your actual budget. If your monthly limit is $1,000, set it to $900. That filter reveals listings that:
Then you can take Apartment List’s personalized quiz to match with units that fit your budget, must-have amenities, and commute preferences. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.
Memphis rents are generally lowest during the winter months between October and February.
The cheapest neighborhoods in Memphis, such as Berclair, Riverside, Oakhaven, Parkway Village, and Hickory Hill, aren’t the safest neighborhoods and have below-average Crime Grade ratings. But keep in mind, the entire city has a below-average safety rating
Yes, the city and county programs offer emergency rent and housing assistance. Learn more at Home-Funded Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, Rent and Utility Assistance from Friends for All, and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Memphis is much more affordable than Nashville and is generally cheaper than other major cities in Tennessee. As of October 2025, Memphis has a 14.2% lower cost of living than the national average, and Nashville has a cost of living that’s 4.7% higher than the national average.
No, Riverside has an overall F crime grade, making it one of the least safe areas in the city. Many neighborhoods in Memphis have an F rating, and the city’s overall crime grade is an F.
The average commute from Hickory Hill to Downtown takes around 22 to 25 minutes via I-240 W. Residents using public transportation have a much longer commute time, ranging from 1 hour and 15 minutes to over 2 hours.
Standard yearly leases are more common in Berclair, but renters can still find flexible rentals that offer 6- to 9-month leases.
Yes, there are many active pet-friendly listings in Parkway Village. Some properties feature a dog park and pool, while house rentals come with backyards and laundry facilities.
Yes, as of October 2025, Apartment List has over 477 Memphis apartments that are under $1,000 per month. Use the filter tools to further narrow down your search.
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
