Thinking about making a move to Nashville? You’re definitely not alone. Between the live music around every corner, hot chicken debates that somehow become very serious, and neighborhoods packed with personality, Nashville continues to attract renters looking for a city with energy and opportunity. But while Music City has plenty to offer, finding an apartment that fits your budget can take a little strategy.
The good news is there are still Nashville neighborhoods where renters can get more space, convenient access to the city, and a comfortable lifestyle without paying downtown prices. As of May 2026, the average rent in Nashville is $1,681/month, which is about 2% higher than the national average. Still, several neighborhoods come in well below that figure, giving renters more flexibility in their monthly budget.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet residential area, an apartment close to parks and shopping, or a neighborhood with an easy commute into the city, Nashville has affordable options worth considering. Based on current rent data, here are five of the most affordable neighborhoods in Nashville right now:
Cloverhill

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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,681/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Cloverhill: $946/month
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Average apartment size in Cloverhill: 594 sq. ft.
Located in East Nashville, Cloverhill stands out for renters looking to keep costs low while staying connected to the city. Apartment communities here tend to offer practical layouts, mature trees, and easy access to I-40 and Nashville International Airport. Even though Cloverhill is next to these busy points in Nashville, this neighborhood still preserves a relaxed residential feel, making it appealing for renters who want affordability without moving too far outside Nashville’s core.
Residents in Cloverhill have convenient access to casual restaurants like SweetMilk Breakfast & Lunch, the Donelson Pub, and Italian Pizza House and Bar. Nashville Shores Waterpark is only a short drive away and remains a favorite local destination for weekend fun and summer memories.
Glengarry

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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,681/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Glengarry: $1,095/month
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Average apartment size in Glengarry: 715 sq. ft.
Glengarry’s location allows renters to enjoy Nashville amenities while maintaining a quieter home environment away from the busiest tourist districts. Situated in Southeast Nashville, Glengarry gives renters a little extra breathing room without a major jump in price. Known for its residential streets and apartment communities tucked between shopping centers like Crescent Plaza and parks including Whitsett Park, Glengarry appeals to renters looking for value and convenience. The neighborhood’s location also makes it easy to reach Downtown Nashville and nearby suburbs.
Residents are close to local restaurants, grocery stores, and shopping areas along Murfreesboro Pike. The neighborhood also sits near Ford Ice Center Antioch, where residents can catch hockey games, skating sessions, and community events throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts can head to nearby Mill Creek Greenway, a popular spot for biking, jogging, and walking.
McMurray

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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,681/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in McMurray: $1,106/month
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Average apartment size in McMurray: 629 sq. ft.
McMurray might be a small neighborhood, but it is actually ideally located. It is a central South Nashville location with an abundance of apartment communities that remain relatively affordable compared to much of the city. The neighborhood combines residential streets with convenient retail and park access, making it appealing for renters who want everyday essentials nearby.
Whether you’re spending the afternoon exploring nearby trails or grabbing dinner along Nolensville Pike, McMurray keeps daily life simple and accessible. Residents of McMurray enjoy close proximity to several parks, local restaurants, and shopping centers. The nearby Ellington Agricultural Center provides walking trails, open green space, and seasonal events that feel surprisingly peaceful considering how close the neighborhood is to the city. Crieve Hall Bagel Co. and local cafes around the area have become neighborhood staples for residents looking for laid-back dining options. The neighborhood also sits near the Nashville Fairgrounds, where residents can enjoy flea markets, events, racing, and concerts throughout the year.
Glencliff Estates

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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,681/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Glencliff Estates: $1,270/month
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Average apartment size in Glencliff Estates: 725 sq. ft.
Glencliff Estates combines apartment living with pockets of single-family homes, creating a neighborhood that feels established without losing affordability. Located just southeast of Downtown Nashville, the area attracts renters looking for larger floor plans and convenient access to major employers, schools, and shopping districts.
Glencliff Estates offers a quieter residential setting while still keeping Nashville’s entertainment districts within reach. Residents in Glencliff Estates have easy access to several local parks, community centers, and restaurants throughout South Nashville. The areas around Thompson Lane and Nolensville Pike continue growing with international dining options, coffee shops, and specialty markets that reflect Nashville’s expanding food scene. For everyday entertainment, residents can explore nearby shopping centers or make the short drive into Wedgewood-Houston and Downtown Nashville for concerts, sporting events, and local nightlife.
Nashboro Village

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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashville: $1,681/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Nashboro Village: $1,274/month
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Average apartment size in Nashboro Village: 740 sq. ft.
Located near Percy Priest Lake and Nashville International Airport, Nashboro Village offers renters a little more space while still staying below Nashville’s average rent prices. Renters looking for a balance between city access and quieter surroundings often find Nashboro Village appealing.
One of the biggest perks of living in Nashboro Village is the access to outdoor activities. Residents are close to Percy Priest Lake, where boating, kayaking, fishing, and walking trails provide easy weekend plans. Nashboro Golf Club remains a popular local destination for golfers, while nearby parks and greenways give residents additional space to enjoy the outdoors. The neighborhood also sits close to shopping and dining options along Bell Road and Murfreesboro Pike. From casual local restaurants to larger retail centers, residents can handle most daily errands without venturing too far from home. And when you want live music, professional sports, or a night out, Downtown Nashville is still within reach.
Make the Most of Your Move with Apartments.com

Finding an affordable apartment in Nashville doesn’t mean giving up access to great neighborhoods, local restaurants, green spaces, or convenient transportation. From the budget-friendly apartments in Cloverhill to the lakeside atmosphere of Nashboro Village, Nashville offers renters a variety of neighborhoods where monthly rent can stretch a little further.
Whether you’re relocating across the state or making your first move to Music City, Apartments.com can help simplify your apartment search. Explore neighborhoods, compare pricing, and find a rental that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.
Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s May 2026 reports.
FAQs
What is the average apartment rent in Nashville in 2026?
As of May 2026, the average rent in Nashville is approximately $1,681 per month, slightly above the national average rent price. The current national average rent price is $1,643/month, which makes Nashville apartments only 2% more expensive.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Nashville?
A renter in Nashville should aim to make around $67,236 per year, or about $5,603 per month, to comfortably afford the city’s average rent while following the common guideline of spending no more than 30% of income on housing.
Are there affordable neighborhoods near Downtown Nashville?
Yes. Glencliff Estates and McMurray both offer relatively affordable rent prices while keeping residents within a short drive of Downtown Nashville, local entertainment districts, and major employers.
Which affordable Nashville neighborhood has the most outdoor recreation?
Nashboro Village stands out for outdoor access thanks to its proximity to Percy Priest Lake, golf courses, walking trails, and nearby parks. Residents can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities close to home.
Is public transportation available in Nashville neighborhoods?
Many Nashville neighborhoods are served by WeGo Public Transit bus routes, especially areas along major corridors like Nolensville Pike and Murfreesboro Pike. While Nashville is still largely car-dependent, public transit options continue expanding throughout the metro area.