Renting in Newark on a Budget? Check Out These Affordable Neighborhoods

If you’re searching for affordable neighborhoods in cities in the Northeast, Newark, NJ, is a solid choice for renters. Just a stone’s throw from the Big Apple, it offers a nice mix of community charm and urban convenience. For those commuting for work to Manhattan or Brooklyn, Newark provides a more affordable alternative to the sky-high rents for apartments in New York City while still offering easy access to jobs and entertainment.

While the cost of living in Newark is 4% higher than the New Jersey average and 16% above the national benchmark, its housing market remains a relief for renters on a budget. With an average rent of $1,634 as of February 2025 — slightly below the national average of $1,748 — Newark still has some affordable neighborhoods worth exploring.

That said, finding apartments in Newark isn’t quite a walk in the park. North Jersey is known for having one of the hottest rental markets in the country, with high demand and limited available options making it very challenging to secure an apartment.

But fear not! We’ve compiled a guide to some of the best affordable neighborhoods in Newark where you can find a great place to live without stretching your budget too thin and find budget-friendly apartments that suit your needs:

• Forest Hill
• Mount Pleasant
• Seventh Avenue
• Dayton
• Weequahic

Forest Hill

Average Rent as of February 2025: $1,467

Forest Hill is one of Newark’s best affordable neighborhoods, offering a mix of historic homes and apartment buildings. The tree-lined streets and classic architecture give it a peaceful, suburban feel while still being close to Downtown Newark. Plus, apartments in Forest Hill tend to be more spacious, and the area is known for being quieter compared to other parts of the city.

One of the biggest perks of living in Forest Hill is having Branch Brook Park nearby. It’s home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the U.S. and offers plenty of green space for jogging, biking, or just relaxing. The neighborhood also has some of Newark’s best schools, making it a good choice for families. Safety-wise, it’s considered one of the more peaceful areas in the city, thanks to its tight-knit community.

Mount Pleasant

Average Rent as of February 2025: $1,451

If you’re looking for affordable neighborhoods in Newark that feel a little under the radar, Mount Pleasant is a solid choice. It’s just north of downtown and has a mix of older buildings and modern apartment buildings, giving renters a range of options at lower prices.

Mount Pleasant is known for its historic charm and easy access to public transportation. The Passaic River waterfront is close by, offering a nice spot for a walk or a run. The neighborhood is mostly residential, so it’s quieter than some of the busier parts of Newark. While it doesn’t have a huge nightlife scene, it’s a great place for renters who want a peaceful and affordable home.

Seventh Avenue

Average Rent as of February 2025: $1,451

Seventh Avenue is one of the best affordable neighborhoods in Newark for renters who want to stay close to downtown without paying downtown prices. It’s right next to major public transit options, making it a great pick for commuters. On top of this, Seventh Avenue is a dynamic but not overly busy neighborhood, striking a nice balance between city life and affordability.

The area has a mix of apartment buildings and townhomes, with rents that are lower than the city average. Seventh Avenue also has deep Italian-American roots — it was once known as First Ward, Newark’s original Little Italy — so you’ll find some of the best local restaurants in this area. It’s also home to the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, making Seventh Avenue a popular and convenient spot for students.

Dayton

Average Rent as of February 2025: $1,446

Dayton, one of the most affordable neighborhoods on this list, is a good choice for renters on a tight budget who want cheap apartments without leaving the city. Located in the southern part of Newark, Dayton is an up-and-coming area where new apartment complexes and renovations have brought more options for renters.

One of the biggest draws of renting in Dayton is Weequahic Park, a massive outdoor space with jogging trails, sports fields, and a lake. Dayton has a more industrial past, but it’s changing as more people move in. While it doesn’t have as many restaurants or shopping spots as some other areas, it’s one of the most affordable places to rent in Newark.

Weequahic

Average Rent as of February 2025: $1,446

Right next to Dayton, Weequahic is another smart pick for renters looking for cheap apartments in Newark. It’s one of the city’s most affordable neighborhoods, offering a mix of older buildings and rental units in converted homes.

Like Dayton, the neighborhood’s biggest attraction is its proximity to Weequahic Park. Those renting in Weequahic enjoy a residential feel, making it a good spot for nature lovers who want a break from the hustle and bustle. It’s also close to major highways and public transit, so getting around is easy.

Whether you want to be close to parks or historic sites, or have easy access to transit options, these affordable neighborhoods make it possible to live in Newark without straining your budget.

If you’re looking for an affordable apartment in Newark, these areas should be at the top of your list. Alternatively, if you’re interested in affordability pockets in other cities, check out our guides for budget-friendly neighborhoods in Brooklyn, NY; Seattle; Grand Rapids, MI; Austin, TX; San Antonio, TX; Detroit; Chicago; Atlanta; Denver; Miami; Minneapolis; Reno, NV; Columbus, OH; Hialeah, FL; Fayetteville, NC; Salt Lake City; Washington, DC; Knoxville, TN; and St. Paul, MN.