Los Angeles, CA, captivates with its sun-kissed beaches, sprawling urban landscape, and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. With a population of around 3.9 million residents, Los Angeles has unique neighborhoods, world-class entertainment, and a one-of-a-kind culinary scene. In Los Angeles, the average rent for a studio apartment is $2,118, while a one-bedroom unit averages $2,614.
Whether you're new to Los Angeles or searching for more budget-friendly housing options, ApartmentGuide is here to assist. We've curated a list of the 12 most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles for renting this year.
From West Adams to Boyle Heights, Los Angeles' neighborhoods cater to various budgets, and they're all below the city's average for studio and one-bedroom apartments. Let's delve into these neighborhoods and find the perfect place to call home in the City of Angels.
1. West Adams
2. Rampart Village
3. Crenshaw
4. South LA
5. Eastside LA
6. Larchmont
7. East Hollywood
8. Greater Wilshire
9. Greater Valley Glen
10. Northeast LA
11. Silver Lake
12. Boyle Heights
Read on to see what each neighborhood has to offer its residents.
Average studio rent: $1,995
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,600
Apartments for rent in West Adams
West Adams is the most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles, as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,600. There are plenty of reasons to love living in West Adams, from green spaces like Westside Neighborhood Park to its proximity to shopping centers. If you're looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants to explore along West Adams Boulevard, showcasing Los Angeles's food scene. For renters living in Los Angeles without a car, you can find some bus lines and the Metro E Line in West Adams.
Average studio rent: $1,685
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,849
Apartments for rent in Rampart Village
Rampart Village is a bustling area that's just west of downtown Los Angeles. This affordable neighborhood has lots of attractions such as Shatto Park and Lafayette Lake. It's also significantly less expensive than the nearby MacArthur Park neighborhood, but you're still close enough to explore the area. It's also Los Angeles' 10th most walkable neighborhood so there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and venues nearby.
Average studio rent: $1,722
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,875
Apartments for rent in Crenshaw
With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,875, Crenshaw is the third-most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles. This neighborhood is an awesome option as it's near attractions like the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook and the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area. There are also picturesque views of the cityscape, so this area is great for exploring and enjoying Los Angeles. If you're looking for a relaxing afternoon, you can find the Stocker Corridor Trail in the area.
Average studio rent: $1,799
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,875
Apartments for rent in South LA
South LA is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles. It's a large neighborhood encompassing many smaller sub-neighborhoods, so it's a great option if you want access to plenty of shops and restaurants. For example, you can easily access Chesterfield Square. There are also plenty of parks like Harvard Park and Exposition Park Rose Garden, and the area is easily accessible to major event centers like SoFi Stadium.
Average studio rent: $1,695
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,895
Apartments for rent in Eastside LA
Just about 5 miles from downtown, Eastside LA, or East LA, is a stellar neighborhood to consider if you want to live close to downtown. It's also a great area if you're living in Los Angeles without a car, as Eastside LA has several bus routes, including the Metro E Line. There are also parks nearby, like Belvedere Community Regional Park and Eugene A. Obregón Park.
Average studio rent: $1,550
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,900
Apartments for rent in Larchmont
Next up is Larchmont, the sixth-most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles. Larchmont is full of history and charm, with tree-lined streets, cafes, and a small park. This area is also often used as a filming location since it's across the street from Paramount Pictures. Make sure to take a tour of Paramount Pictures or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants like Cafe Gratitude or Mario's Peruvian & Seafood. There's something for everyone living in Larchmont.
Average studio rent: $1,554
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,950
Apartments for rent in East Hollywood
Just outside of Larchmont is East Hollywood, the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles. East Hollywood has a friendly atmosphere and community feel, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along West Sunset Boulevard, such as Jitlada and Ocha. This neighborhood is home to Little Armenia and Thai Town, giving you plenty to explore. You can also check out some of East Hollywood's landmarks, like Barnsdall Art Park, which is home to Frank Lloyd Wright's Mayan-inspired Hollyhock House.
Average studio rent: $1,750
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,050
Apartments for rent in Greater Wilshire
Greater Wilshire, also known as Hancock Park, takes the eighth spot on our list of most affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $550 less than the city's average, making Greater Wilshire a great option to consider. It's about 5 miles from downtown, which means you'll have the best of city life without living in the city center.
Average studio rent: $1,549
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,149
Apartments for rent in Greater Valley Glen
A well-known Los Angeles neighborhood, Greater Valley Glen is the next area. Greater Valley Glen is home to the Valley Glen Community Park and the Tujunga Greenbelt, which runs along the Great Wall of Los Angeles, meaning there's plenty to do throughout the week. You'll find countless historic buildings in Greater Valley Glen, so make sure to explore the area's charm. There are many options if you need to commute to work, as the 170 Freeway is nearby.
Average studio rent: $1,650
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,149
Apartments for rent in Northeast LA
The tenth-most affordable neighborhood in Los Angeles is Northeast LA. This area has a vibrant feeling with its popular restaurants and quirky shops. You can find countless parks and green spaces like the Ernest E. Debs Regional Park and the Ascot Hills Park, perfect for enjoying a sunny day in Los Angeles. Northeast LA also hosts the Old LA Farmers' Market every Tuesday, providing residents with lots of opportunities to enjoy their neighborhood.
Average studio rent: $2,000
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,150
Apartments for rent in Silver Lake
Number 11 on our list is Silver Lake, a popular Los Angeles neighborhood. This affordable neighborhood is located near East Hollywood and Larchmont, so it's an awesome area if you're looking to be in the city's center. You can find plenty of cozy cafes and lively restaurants along Sunset Boulevard. Silver Lake is also home to parks like the Silver Lake Reservoir and the Silver Lake Meadow.
Average studio rent: $1,650
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,199
Apartments for rent in Boyle Heights
Taking the final spot on our list of affordable neighborhoods in Los Angeles is Boyle Heights. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,199, compared to the city's average of $2,614. This neighborhood is about 4 miles from downtown. Be sure to explore some of the neighborhood's attractions like Mariachi Plaza, where you'll find plenty of restaurants and access to the Metro E Line.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a neighborhood has average studio and 1-bedroom rent prices under the city's average. Average rental data from Rent.com on March 18, 2024.
A California-native, Alison currently resides in Seattle and enjoys writing about housing affordability and rental market trends. When she’s not working, you can find her recipe-testing, enjoying walks outside, or going to concerts with friends and family.