Finding Affordable Neighborhoods in New York City: 5 Areas to Consider in the Bronx

New York — the city of big dreams, bright lights, and… sky-high rents. Finding an apartment that doesn’t consume your entire paycheck can feel like searching for a hidden treasure, especially for renters on a tight budget.

While New York City’s boroughs of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens often grab the headlines for their sky-high living costs, the Bronx offers a different (read: more affordable) perspective. As of March 2025, the average rent here is around $1,923. That’s a whopping 60% below the New York City average of $4,712.

However, the Bronx isn’t exactly cheap compared to the rest of the country. The overall cost of living in the Bronx is 41% higher than the national benchmark and 11% higher than the New York state average, with rents still above the national average of $1,755.

But compared to renting apartments in other areas of New York City, this borough presents a more accessible option. For renters keeping a close eye on their budget in 2025, finding truly affordable neighborhoods requires a closer look.

To make your life easier as you look for apartments in the Bronx, we’ve explored some of the best affordable neighborhoods this borough has to offer, including:

• Riverdale
• Kingsbridge
• Pelham Bay
• Morris Park
• Woodlawn

These areas provide relief from the city’s high rental costs while still offering the unique energy and amenities of New York living.

Riverdale

Apartments with rents starting from $1,578

Often perceived as one of the pricier Bronx locales, Riverdale offers surprising value, with apartment rents as low as $1,578. Nestled along the Hudson River in the Northwest Bronx area, it boasts stunning views and a more suburban feel than areas closer to Manhattan. Riverdale is known for being one of the safest neighborhoods in the borough, making it attractive for anyone seeking tranquility.

Renters enjoy access to beautiful green spaces like the Wave Hill Public Garden and Culture Center and Riverdale Park, excellent schools, and convenient transit options via Metro-North and nearby subway lines. You’ll find a mix of housing, from older co-op buildings to single-family homes and newer apartments, alongside lots of local eateries.

Kingsbridge

Apartments with rents starting from $1,256

Adjacent to Riverdale, Kingsbridge offers even more affordable rental options. Specifically, rents for apartments in Kingsbridge start from around $1,256. This makes it a truly budget-friendly neighborhood for those wanting Bronx convenience without the Riverdale price tag.

Kingsbridge is a bustling area with a diverse community, offering easy access to the 1 train, major highways, and Van Cortlandt Park. Amenities include public facilities like the Kingsbridge Library, playgrounds such as Ewen Park, and a variety of shops and restaurants along Broadway and nearby streets. While exploring any urban area requires awareness, Kingsbridge provides a lively yet accessible living experience.

Pelham Bay

Apartments with rents starting from $1,121

Rents in this neighborhood start around $1,121, making apartments in Pelham Bay a great option for budget-conscious renters who love the outdoors. Its main draw is the massive Pelham Bay Park — New York City’s largest, as it’s three times the size of Central Park — with beaches, hiking trails, golf courses, bridle paths, and the historic Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum.

Moreover, this eastern Bronx neighborhood has a strong community feel, offering a mix of apartment buildings and single-family homes. You’ll find plenty of local restaurants, particularly classic Italian-American spots, contributing to its reputation as one of the best affordable neighborhoods in New York City.

Morris Park

Apartments with rents starting from $1,121

Sharing a similar starting rent point with Pelham Bay (around $1,121), Morris Park is another excellent budget-friendly neighborhood for New York City renters. Located in the east-central Bronx, it’s known for its strong Italian-American heritage, evident in its many bakeries, pizzerias, and restaurants. The neighborhood feels distinct and close-knit, famous for its annual Columbus Day Parade.

Morris Park renters enjoy a blend of residential calm and local amenities. The area is also close to major institutions like the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Jacobi Medical Center, and attractions like the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden.

Woodlawn

Apartments with rents starting from $1,054

For a truly affordable neighborhood in New York City, Woodlawn (also known as Woodlawn Heights) has apartments with rents starting at around $1,054. This area is conveniently tucked away in the northernmost section of the Bronx, bordering the expansive Van Cortlandt Park. This welcoming neighborhood is often affectionately called “Little Ireland” due to its distinctly Irish-American character.

Katonah Avenue — Woodlawn’s main commercial strip and social hub — is lined with a vibrant collection of traditional Irish pubs, local shops, and inviting restaurants. Its location fosters a quieter atmosphere, giving it an almost small-town feel distinct from other city areas. This unique atmosphere makes Woodlawn an especially charming and affordable neighborhood choice for those seeking strong community spirit alongside budget-friendly living.

Finding an affordable place to live in New York City can be challenging, but the Bronx clearly offers compelling options compared to the citywide average, making it a truly affordable neighborhood for savvy renters.

If you’re looking to balance cost, convenience, and quality of life in New York City, start your apartment search by exploring these welcoming corners of the Bronx. But don’t limit yourself to this borough — check out our guides for affordable neighborhoods in Manhattan and Brooklyn as well!