As the city continues to grow, finding the cheapest neighborhoods in Tampa remains a top priority for renters looking to balance cost and convenience. Whether you’re a first-time renter, or just looking to increase your savings, exploring apartments in Tampa can help you find a community that fits your lifestyle and budget.
In this Rent. article, we’ll explore some of the most affordable neighborhoods in Tampa, complete with neighborhood highlights and key details to help you find your perfect home.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most budget-friendly neighborhoods in Tampa and what you can expect to pay for a one-bedroom apartment in each area.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-bedroom rent |
| Cross Fletcher | $1,139 |
| Temple Crest | $1,249 |
| North Tampa | $1,295 |
| 40th Street Corridor | $1,300 |
| North Ybor | $1,350 |
| East Lake – Orient Park | $1,350 |
| Pinecrest West Park | $1,350 |
| Terrace Park | $1,359 |
| Sulphur Springs | $1,360 |
| Lake Magdalene | $1,387 |
1. Cross Fletcher
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,139 | YoY change: -16%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,600 | YoY change: 16%
Neighborhood highlights: Near USF, diverse dining, easy I-275 access
Cross Fletcher is a great place for renters looking to be close to USF without the high prices of areas like Temple Terrace. The neighborhood has a mix of older apartment complexes and single-family rental homes, many offering more space for the price. You’re also just minutes from Lettuce Lake Park. The park has boardwalk trails and kayaking along the Hillsborough River. Public transit is available with HART bus routes, making it possible to get around without a car, though having one is definitely a plus.
2. Temple Crest
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,249 | YoY change: 4%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,550 | YoY change: -2%
Neighborhood highlights: Hillsborough River views, local parks, quick downtown commute
Temple Crest is located along the Hillsborough River. It’s an excellent spot for renters who love the outdoors, with Rowlett Park right in the neighborhood, perfect for walking, biking, or a weekend picnic. The area has a strong local feel so you won’t find a booming nightlife scene. However, you’re just a short drive from Seminole Heights, where you’ll find some of Tampa’s best breweries and restaurants.
3. North Tampa
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,295 | YoY change: -24%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,800 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Close to Busch Gardens, major retail centers
North Tampa is home to a variety of small apartment complexes and rental homes, many of which are older but well-maintained. One of the highlights of living here is its proximity to Busch Gardens. In fact, the beloved theme park is only a 6-minute drive away. Additionally, foodies will appreciate local spots like Mel’s Hot Dogs, a classic Tampa institution serving Chicago-style hot dogs since the ‘70s.
4. 40th Street Corridor
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,300 | YoY change: 6%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,450 | YoY change: -2%
Neighborhood highlights: Central location, growing restaurant scene, access to transit
The 40th Street Corridor is one of the best neighborhoods in Tampa for renters looking for affordability with a central location. It’s close to both Temple Terrace and East Tampa, meaning you’re never far from shopping centers, grocery stores, and local restaurants. One of the biggest perks is its proximity to Hillsborough River State Park, where you can go hiking, canoeing, or just enjoy the scenery. Public transit is available, and major roads like E. Hillsborough Avenue and I-4 make commuting anywhere in the city pretty simple.
5. North Ybor
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,350
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,700
Neighborhood highlights: Historic architecture, Ybor City nightlife, streetcar access
North Ybor has some of the most affordable rental prices near Ybor City, one of Tampa’s most historic and lively districts. The neighborhood is a mix of old Florida-style bungalows, converted loft apartments, and small rental complexes, giving it a unique charm. Living here means you’re just minutes from 7th Avenue, packed with bars, restaurants, and live music venues. Plus, you’re within walking or biking distance to Centennial Park and the TECO Line Streetcar, which provides free rides into downtown.
6. East Lake – Orient Park
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,350
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,535
Neighborhood highlights: Fairgrounds proximity, quiet streets, recreational parks
A huge draw to East Lake – Orient Park is its proximity to the Florida State Fairgrounds. The fairground hosts many exciting concerts, events, and festivals year-round. The neighborhood is also just a short drive from Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, a popular spot for nightlife and dining. Public transit options are available, but most residents rely on cars, with I-4 and I-75 making commuting a breeze.
7. Pinecrest West Park
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,350
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,733
Neighborhood highlights: Family-owned eateries, convenient shopping, close to Veterans Expressway
Pinecrest West Park has a variety of rental options, from apartments to mid-century homes with more space. It’s close to major shopping areas like Westfield Citrus Park Mall, so running errands is easy. The area is also near Al Lopez Park, which has jogging trails, picnic areas, and a lake, making it a great spot for outdoor activities. While public transit is limited, the neighborhood’s location near Dale Mabry Highway provides quick access to other parts of Tampa.
8. Terrace Park
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,359 | YoY change: 5%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,465 | YoY change: 0%
Neighborhood highlights: Near Adventure Island, bike-friendly roads
Terrace Park is another budget-friendly neighborhood near USF’s campus. The area has plenty of older apartments and townhomes, often with lower rent prices than nearby Temple Terrace. Busch Gardens and Adventure Island are just minutes away, meaning you can grab an annual pass and enjoy roller coasters anytime. Food-wise, the neighborhood is close to Tikka Masalaa, a must-try for Indian cuisine, and Skipper’s Smokehouse, a legendary spot for live music and seafood.
9. Sulphur Springs
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,360 | YoY change: 13%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,600 | YoY change: 28%
Neighborhood highlights: Historic spring-fed pool, unique architecture, close to I-275
Sulphur Springs is known for the Sulphur Springs Tower, a quirky local landmark, and Spring Hill Park, where you can find walking trails and open green spaces. The neighborhood has a strong local food scene, with delicious places like Rooster & The Till. While it’s more car-dependent, Nebraska Avenue runs right through the area, making it easy to get to downtown or Seminole Heights quickly.
10. Lake Magdalene
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,387
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,637
Neighborhood highlights: Lakeside living, nature trails, suburban feel
Lake Magdalene has a mix of apartment complexes, rental homes, and condos, many of which offer scenic views of the area’s lakes and canals. Carrollwood Village Park is nearby, providing plenty of outdoor activities, including walking trails, sports courts, and a dog park. The area also has solid dining options, like Sacred Pepper, a trendy restaurant with great cocktails and modern American dishes.
Methodology: All neighborhoods listed are based on Tampa’s Rental Market Trends on Rent.com. Average rental data and annual change data are sourced from February 2025.
