Areas With the Lowest Rent in Seattle

Seattle’s rental landscape can be pricey, but certain neighborhoods consistently offer lower-than-average rents without sacrificing the essentials of urban living. These areas attract students, young professionals, and anyone looking to stay close to the city while keeping housing costs predictable.

Northgate — ZIPs 98125, 98133

Northgate is a practical option for budget-minded renters. It includes a mix of older apartment buildings and newer mid-rise developments near transit hubs. Typical ZIP codes: 98125 and adjacent 98133.

Lake City — ZIPs 98125, 98155

Lake City provides affordable options with convenient retail corridors and bus connections. Look for units in ZIPs 98125 and nearby 98155 for lower rent than inner-city neighborhoods.

Rainier Valley / Rainier Beach — ZIPs 98118, 98178

Rainier Valley and Rainier Beach offer some of the most budget-friendly rentals in Seattle, often in older multifamily homes and garden-style complexes. Common ZIPs include 98118 and 98178.

South Seattle (Beacon Hill, Georgetown) — ZIPs 98108, 98106, 98144

Beacon Hill and parts of South Seattle such as Georgetown provide lower rents while remaining within a reasonable commute to downtown. Relevant ZIP codes: 98108, 98106, and 98144.

White Center / Burien (Southwest) — ZIPs 98146, 98168

Technically just outside Seattle city limits, White Center and nearby Burien are often included in searches for affordable Seattle-area rentals. Their ZIPs (98146, 98168) frequently show lower average rents while offering straightforward transit and highway access.

North Seattle (Northgate extension, Bitter Lake) — ZIPs 98125, 98177

Areas extending northward from Northgate — including Bitter Lake and surrounding blocks — can be affordable choices. Watch ZIPs like 98125 and 98177 for options that balance price and access.

Affordability in these communities doesn’t mean sacrificing access. Residents benefit from transit connections, local retail, and reasonable commute times to downtown. Rents vary with building age, unit size, and proximity to light rail or major bus corridors, so check comparable listings in ZIP codes above before deciding.