As the city continues to grow, finding the cheapest neighborhoods in San Antonio 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 San Antonio 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 San Antonio, 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 San Antonio and what you can expect to pay for a one-bedroom apartment in each area.
| Neighborhood | Average 1-bedroom rent |
| Pipers Meadow | $729 |
| Alamo Farmsteads | $785 |
| Terrell Heights | $805 |
| Thunderbird Hills | $814 |
| Shearer Hills – Ridgeview | $845 |
| Highland Park | $899 |
| North Central | $899 |
| Maverick | $900 |
| Harlandale | $922 |
1. Pipers Meadow
Average 1-bedroom rent: $729 | YoY change: -29%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,304 | YoY change: -8%
Neighborhood highlights: Quiet residential streets, easy Loop 410 access, local parks
Pipers Meadow is an affordable, residential neighborhood on the far west side of San Antonio. One of the biggest perks of living here is the easy access to SeaWorld San Antonio, making it a fun weekend option for thrill-seekers. It’s also close to Highway 151, which means a quick commute to major employers like Lackland Air Force Base.
2. Alamo Farmsteads
Average 1-bedroom rent: $785 | YoY change: -12%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,186 | YoY change: -11%
Neighborhood highlights: Scenic trails, large green spaces, suburban feel
Alamo Farmsteads is great for renters who want affordability with plenty of green space. The neighborhood sits right next to OP Schnabel Park, one of the best spots in San Antonio for hiking, biking, and even disc golf. Despite its quiet feel, you’re still close to major shopping centers like Ingram Park Mall. Additionally, the nearby Bandera Road corridor has tons of grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops.
3. Terrell Heights
Average 1-bedroom rent: $805 | YoY change: N/A
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,275 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Close to The Pearl, walkable streets, mix of historic and modern homes
Terrell Heights is one of the more walkable and bike-friendly affordable neighborhoods in San Antonio. It has a mix of older apartments, duplexes, and charming mid-century rental homes. Many of the rentals have shaded yards and a lot of character. The area is close to The Quarry Market, so you’ve got easy access to great shopping, dining, and entertainment. On weekends, locals love visiting nearby parks like McNay Art Museum’s sculpture garden.
4. Thunderbird Hills
Average 1-bedroom rent: $814 | YoY change: N/A
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,250 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Established community, easy access to Ingram Park Mall, local restaurants
Thunderbird Hills is close to Loop 410, making it easy to get to places like South Texas Medical Center or St. Mary’s University in under 15 minutes. Food-wise, you’re right near Tellez Tamales & Barbacoa, one of the best spots in the city for breakfast tacos. If you want a budget-friendly area with good commuting options and access to local favorites, Thunderbird Hills is worth considering.
5. Shearer Hills – Ridgeview
Average 1-bedroom rent: $845 | YoY change: -7%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,125 | YoY change: -13%
Neighborhood highlights: Near North Star Mall, diverse dining
Shearer Hills – Ridgeview is perfect for people who want to be close to downtown without paying premium prices. You’re just a few minutes from North Star Mall for shopping and dining, and The Lonesome Rose, a classic honky-tonk with live country music. Public transit is better here than in most budget-friendly neighborhoods. The area has VIA bus routes running along San Pedro Avenue for an easy ride downtown.
6. Highland Park
Average 1-bedroom rent: $899 | YoY change: 6%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,100 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Historic homes, community parks, quick downtown commute
Highland Park is located just south of downtown. The area has tree-lined streets, older rental homes, and a strong sense of community. Highland Park itself is a huge draw, with walking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields, and plenty of outdoor space. The neighborhood has a laid-back, residential feel. However, you’re still close to local gems like Bolner’s Meat Market, a family-owned butcher shop that’s been around for over a century.
7. North Central
Average 1-bedroom rent: $899 | YoY change: -14%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,300 | YoY change: -1%
Neighborhood highlights: Business district access, shopping centers, strong transit options
One of the biggest perks of living in North Central is the proximity to Phil Hardberger Park. The park includes a massive green space with trails, a dog park, and even a nature preserve. You’re also close to Blanco Road, which has plenty of shopping, dining, and local favorites like Big’z Burger Joint for classic Texas-style burgers. If you want a well-connected neighborhood with good amenities, North Central is a solid pick.
8. Maverick
Average 1-bedroom rent: $900 | YoY change: N/A
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,215 | YoY change: N/A
Neighborhood highlights: Peaceful atmosphere, local coffee shops, close to major highways
Located near Loop 410 and Highway 90, Maverick is a great spot for commuters who work downtown or at Lackland Air Force Base. The rental market here is primarily made up of older apartment buildings and small rental homes, often at prices much lower than trendier areas. The neighborhood has a few hidden food gems, like Taqueria El Charro de Jalisco, known for its authentic Tex-Mex breakfast plates.
9. Harlandale
Average 1-bedroom rent: $922 | YoY change: 8%
Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,104 | YoY change: 0%
Neighborhood highlights: Authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, historic landmarks, strong local culture
Harlandale has a strong local feel, with long-standing businesses and classic San Antonio eateries. Local favorites include Adelita Tamales & Tortilla Factory, where you can grab some of the best tamales in town. It’s close to Mission San José, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes it a great neighborhood for those who love history and quiet, scenic walks. While it’s more car-dependent, major roads like Roosevelt Avenue and I-35 make commuting downtown easy.
Methodology: All neighborhoods listed are based on San Antonio’s Rental Market Trends on Rent.com. Average rental data and annual change data are sourced from February 2025.
