Tucked right in the heart of California's Central Valley region, Fresno has a rich history that reflects the area's agricultural roots. Founded in 1872 as a railway station for the Central Pacific Railroad, the city quickly established itself as a place for farming and trade.
If you’ve ever popped open a box of raisins, chances are the dried fruit came from Fresno, known as “the Raisin Capital of the World.” Fun fact: The nationwide marketing campaign for the Emmy-winning California Raisins group was based in Fresno.
The city is known for its welcoming vibe and its ideal location, offering a two-hour drive to either the beach or the mountains for a quick getaway. Looking for budget-friendly living in Fresno? Keep reading to explore the city’s five most affordable neighborhoods.
McLane
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Fresno: $1,285/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in McLane: $993/month
- Median Home List Price in McLane: $399,450
With the Sierra Nevada mountains as its backdrop, the McLane neighborhood is located in the northeastern portion of Fresno. Named after McLane High School, which opened in 1959, the area showcases ranch-style houses with spacious front yards.
Things to do in McLane
McLane’s flat layout and bike lanes make it a great area for cycling. For additional opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, Woodward Park, just outside the neighborhood, provides over 300 acres of natural beauty with trails, a Japanese garden, a lake, and an amphitheater that often hosts community events like Shakespeare in the Park.
Grab lunch at Churrasco Grill for Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine with raved-about dishes such as the garlic chicken bowl and falafel. If you’re a night owl who’s up for something outside of the box, head to “That One Place,” which offers private karaoke rooms. Howl to the moon sans audience or make it a fun-filled night with your besties as backup singers.
Transportation
McLane’s central location makes getting around Fresno convenient and straightforward. The neighborhood is well-connected by main roads like East Shields Avenue and North Cedar Avenue, which provide easy access to downtown Fresno and other parts of the city. Public transit is also an option, with Fresno Area Express (FAX) buses running through the area. For those traveling farther afield, Fresno Yosemite International Airport is just a short drive away, adding an extra layer of convenience.
Downtown Fresno
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Fresno: $1,285/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown Fresno: $1,053/month
- Median Home List Price in Downtown Fresno: $270,000
Downtown Fresno offers a mix of housing options, including apartments, condos, and lofts. The neighborhood is a compact and walkable city center. Shopping is a key feature, with Fulton Street serving as a central retail and dining corridor, complemented by local markets and boutiques. Additionally, downtown Fresno is home to several recreational parks.
Things to do in Downtown Fresno
If you enjoy unwinding in the great outdoors, living in Downtown Fresno puts you a two hours’ drive away from three amazing national parks: Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon. This geographic placement offers opportunities for breathtaking escapes that aren’t far from city life.
Pack your camera and take a short drive to the Fresno County Blossom Trail for the roadside beauty of fragrant almond and fruit tree blossoms, depending upon the season. End the day with a scenic drive around the 60-mile Fruit Trail, and visit with farmers along the way to purchase items like honey, nuts, and fresh fruit directly from their booths.
Transportation
The neighborhood’s walkability makes it easy to access cafes, shops, and parks without a car. Public transit also plays a major role, with Fresno Area Express (FAX) buses providing reliable service throughout the city. The neighborhood is served by key highways, including State Route 99 and Highway 180, ensuring convenient commutes to other parts of Fresno and beyond. Additionally, future plans for a light-rail commuter train promise to make downtown even more accessible.
Hoover
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Fresno: $1,285/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Hoover: $1,238/month
- Median Home List Price in Hoover: $374,200
The Hoover neighborhood is a lively residential area with a history tied to the growth of nearby California State University, Fresno. Initially developed mid-20th century when the university began expanding outward, the neighborhood primarily served as a suburban haven for university staff. Today, Hoover is more than just a college town. Many more residents are proud to call Hoover home.
Things to do in Hoover
Hoover is home to parks like Cary Park, where skaters can practice tricks or basketball fans can practice their 3-point shots. If you play pickleball, Rotary East Park has you covered with your choice of eight courts. Another highlight of the area is Fresno State’s sprawling campus, with a bevy of cultural and recreational activities throughout the year, including football games at Valley Children’s Stadium and free wine tastings. Just nearby, you can find fresh produce from the university’s agricultural lab at the Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market.
Transportation
Getting around is straightforward in Hoover, with major routes like State Route 41 and 168 defining its boundaries. These highways ensure easy commutes to other parts of Fresno. The Fresno Area Express (FAX) buses have several transit routes throughout the area. Students at Fresno State are able to take the Bulldog Express, which provides free trips to stops along the Campus Loop.
Huntington
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Fresno: $1,285/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Huntington: $881/month
- Median Home List Price in Huntington: $288,500
Developed around 1911 as a streetcar suburb, Huntington is a historically rich and architecturally stunning residential area that dates back to the early 20th century. Huntington Boulevard became the centerpiece of this community with its scenic grassy median and thoughtfully planned streetscape. This boulevard and its surrounding streets offer a harmonious blend of grandeur and accessibility.
Named after Henry E. Huntington, who financed much of the region's streetcar system, the area is lined with homes that showcase a variety of early 20th-century styles, including Craftsman bungalows, Mediterranean Revival, and Italian Renaissance Revival.
Things to do in Huntington
You can’t miss a trip to the annual Big Fresno Fair, held for 12 days each October at the neighborhood’s Fresno County Fairgrounds—more than 100 years running! Join a half million other patrons for its carnival rides, food festivals, and music concerts featuring big name performers. Year-round, the fairgrounds also host the Big Fresno Flea Market, where you can browse handmade crafts, fresh produce, and unique finds.
If you prefer something more laid back, Huntington’s green spaces, such as Romain Park and Mosqueda Park, provide outlets for outdoor recreation, such as skate parks, BMX courses, and ample facilities for sports and picnics. After burning off a few calories, gain them back at Castillo’s Mexican Food on Ventura Avenue, described as the spot for “arguably some of the best Mexican food in town.” The chili verde burrito and menudo are among fan faves.
Transportation
When it comes to getting around, Huntington’s connectivity is a significant advantage. Major thoroughfares like Huntington Boulevard and Ventura Avenue link the area directly to Downtown Fresno, which is only about six miles away. Highways 180 and 41 border the neighborhood, ensuring convenient access to other parts of Fresno County and beyond. Public transportation is also available via Fresno Area Express buses, while the neighborhood's walkable streets make local errands and park visits very convenient.
Lowell
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Fresno: $1,285/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Lowell: $709/month
- Median Home List Price in Lowell: $314,998
Walking through the Lowell neighborhood is like taking a tour of American architectural history. The area showcases an eclectic mix of styles, from Victorian and Craftsman homes to Spanish Colonial Revival and catalog designs from Sears and Roebuck. Large porches, intricate woodwork, and ornate rafter tails are just a few of the details that make these homes unique. Efforts by organizations like the Lowell Community Development Corporation have contributed to preserving and restoring these mini-historic sites.
Things to do in Lowell
Living in Lowell perfectly positions you between Fresno’s Tower District and the Mural District, providing a variety of ways to fill your leisure time. In the Tower District, you will find local theaters, galleries, and vintage shops. For entertainment, check out the Tower Theatre for the Performing Arts for weekly happenings such as concerts, comedy shows, and film screenings.
In the Mural District, you’ll find an open-air gallery that shows off Fresno’s spirit through large-scale public works of art. Print out a map and stroll the dozens of murals spread about the area. Finish the day with a stop by BB’s Gelateria for a scoop of authentic Italian gelato and scope out which photogenic spot is the most Insta-worthy!
Transportation
The Lowell neighborhood is distinctly walkable, and its strategic location makes commuting simple. Its triangular borders of Freeway 180, Divisadero Street, and Blackstone Avenue mean that you can enjoy quick access to Fresno’s main thoroughfares.
If you’re ready to call the heart of California home, search Apartments.com for properties in Fresno today!
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s July 2025 reports
