Washington, D.C., is a city full of historic neighborhoods, stunning views, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that attracts residents from around the world. There’s no shortage of things to see and do with iconic landmarks like the White House, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and the National Mall.
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Washington, D.C., the average monthly rent for a studio is $1,970 and $2,382 for a one-bedroom unit. At ApartmentGuide, we’ve collected 10 of the most affordable neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. to rent in this year.
10 Affordable Neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.
From historic Fort Dupont to charming Congress Heights, we’ve compiled a list of the city’s most affordable neighborhoods. These Washington, D.C. neighborhoods offer studio and one-bedroom apartments that are all under the city’s average rent. Let’s take a closer look at what each neighborhood has to offer renters.
1. Fort Dupont
2. Congress Heights
3. Bellevue
4. Trinidad
5. Anacostia
6. Southeast Washington
7. Fairlawn
8. Chevy Chase-DC
9. Brightwood Park
10. 16th Street Heights – Crestwood – Brightwood Park
Read on to see what each neighborhood has to offer its residents.
1. Fort Dupont
Average studio rent: $899
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,238
Apartments for rent in Fort Dupont
Fort Dupont is the most affordable neighborhood in Washington, D.C., as the average rent for a one-bedroom unit is $1,238. There are plenty of reasons to love living in Fort Dupont, from attractions like the Fort Dupont Activity Center and the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail to green spaces like Fort Dupont Park. For renters commuting into Washington, D.C., you can drive along E Capitol Street, which will take you across the Anacostia River into downtown.
2. Congress Heights
Average studio rent: $960
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,316
Apartments for rent in Congress Heights
Congress Heights is a bustling area just south of downtown Washington, D.C. This affordable neighborhood has many attractions, such as Oxon Run Park and the Entertainment & Sports Arena. If you don’t have a car, Congress Heights has a subway stop for the Green Line.
3. Bellevue
Average studio rent: $960
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,379
Apartments for rent in Bellevue
With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,379, Bellevue is the third-most affordable neighborhood in Washington, D.C. This neighborhood is an awesome option as it’s near attractions like Fort Greble Park and Oxon Run Park. It’s also just south of Congress Heights, meaning there are lots of other neighborhoods nearby to explore.
4. Trinidad
Average studio rent: $1,467
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,500
Apartments for rent in Trinidad
Trinidad is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in Washington, D.C. This neighborhood is a great option if you want access to major attractions. For example, you can easily access the H Street Corridor, which has plenty of restaurants, bars, and venues like Atlas Performing Arts Center. It’s also next to Gallaudet University and the United States National Arboretum.
5. Anacostia
Average studio rent: $1,250
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,511
Apartments for rent in Anacostia
Just about 5 miles from downtown, Anacostia is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live close to downtown. It’s also home to several historic sites like Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Anacostia Arts Center, the Big Chair, and Fort Ricketts. There are also several bus routes that go through Anacostia, and it’s right near the 11th Street Bridge and the Navy Yard Bridge, making it easy for commuters.
6. Southeast Washington
Average studio rent: $1,780
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,511
Apartments for rent in Southeast Washington
Next up is Southeast Washington, the sixth-most affordable neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Southeast Washington is a large neighborhood encompassing areas like Congress Heights and Bellevue. This area has plenty of parks, restaurants, and attractions, so you’ll have lots of explore. Make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Fort Dupont Park or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants. There’s something for everyone living in Southeast Washington.
7. Fairlawn
Average studio rent: $1,250
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,523
Apartments for rent in Fairlawn
North of Anacostia, Fairlawn is the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in Washington, D.C.. Fairlawn has a great location near Anacostia Recreation Center, with views of the river. You can also find plenty of local cafes and restaurants along Marion Berry Avenue. This street also has several bus stops, making it easy to get around the city.
8. Chevy Chase-DC
Average studio rent: $1,250
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,590
Apartments for rent in Chevy Chase-DC
Chevy Chase-DC takes the eighth spot on our list. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $800 less than the city’s average, making Chevy Chase-DC a great option. It’s about 5 miles from downtown, so you’ll have the best city life without living in the city center. There are plenty of places to explore in the Chevy Chase area, like Fort Reno Park, Rock Creek Park, and Connecticut Avenue, which has many local restaurants and cafes.
9. Brightwood Park
Average studio rent: $1,313
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,725
Apartments for rent in Brightwood Park
A well-known Washington, D.C. neighborhood, Brightwood Park is the next area. Brightwood Park is home to Rock Creek Park, meaning there’s plenty to do throughout the week. You’ll find there are countless restaurants in Brightwood Park, so it’s a great area to explore DC’s food scene. For example, you can find a variety of cuisines ranging from Italian, Mexican, and Caribbean to Chinese and dessert shops along Kennedy Street.
10. 16th Street Heights – Crestwood – Brightwood Park
Average studio rent: $1,313
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,725
Apartments for rent in 16th Street Heights – Crestwood – Brightwood Park
16th Street Heights – Crestwood – Brightwood Park takes the final spot on our list of most affordable neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. This area includes three neighborhoods – 16th Street Heights, Crestwood, and Brightwood Park. You can find parks like Rock Creek Park and the Rock Creek Park Trail, perfect for enjoying a sunny day in Washington, D.C. The neighborhood also hosts the Rock Creek Extreme Cleanup event each year, providing residents with lots of opportunities to enjoy the area.
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 in March 2024.