Finding an affordable place to live can be challenging, especially when searching for one bedroom apartments under $800. However, despite rising rental prices in many areas, budget-friendly options are still available for those willing to put in the effort to search for them. Whether you’re a student, young professional, or someone looking to downsize, a one-bedroom apartment can offer the perfect balance of space and affordability.
This guide will help you understand where and how to find one-bedroom apartments under $800, what factors affect rental prices, and tips for making the most of your budget. We will also provide an overview of what to expect in terms of amenities and location and answer some of the most common questions when searching for affordable rentals.
Where to Find One Bedroom Apartments Under $800
1. Best Cities for Affordable One Bedroom Apartments
While finding affordable apartments largely depends on the city or region, some areas in the United States still offer reasonable rental prices. Here are a few cities where one bedroom apartments under $800 can be found:
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Known for its low cost of living, Pittsburgh offers various one-bedroom apartments in affordable neighborhoods. - Cleveland, Ohio
Cleveland is an affordable city with a variety of rental options under $800, especially in suburban areas. - Indianapolis, Indiana
A large metropolitan area with plenty of budget-friendly apartment options. - Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s rental market offers several one-bedroom units that fit within a budget of $800, particularly outside the city center. - St. Louis, Missouri
St. Louis has a lower-than-average cost of living and a variety of rental properties in the under $800 range.
2. Searching for Apartments in Smaller Cities and Suburbs
Living in smaller cities or suburbs can often provide more affordable rent options compared to major urban areas. Here are some other strategies for finding affordable one-bedroom apartments:
- Focus on Suburban Areas: Cities in the suburbs of large metropolitan areas often offer lower rents. For example, living in the outskirts of Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York might allow you to find apartments in your price range.
- Look for College Towns: College towns typically offer affordable rentals due to high turnover rates and demand from students. These areas often provide lower-priced apartments, particularly if you’re open to older buildings.
- Consider Rural Locations: Rural areas often provide the lowest rents due to their less competitive rental markets. However, they may come with the trade-off of fewer amenities and longer commutes.
Factors Affecting the Cost of One Bedroom Apartments
1. Location
The location of an apartment is one of the biggest factors affecting its rental price. Apartments in major cities or neighborhoods near popular attractions, schools, and job hubs tend to be more expensive. In contrast, more rural or suburban locations often offer lower rent prices.
- Urban vs. Suburban: Urban areas generally have higher rents due to demand and proximity to amenities. However, suburban areas or smaller towns can offer cheaper alternatives.
- Proximity to Transportation: Apartments located near public transit or major highways can be pricier, as they provide easier access to the rest of the city.
2. Age and Condition of the Property
Older properties are often more affordable compared to newer constructions. However, the condition of the property can vary widely, and you may need to spend on repairs and maintenance for older units. Newer properties or those with extensive renovations may command higher rents due to their modern amenities and improved conditions.
3. Amenities
The more amenities an apartment offers, the higher the rent is likely to be. A one-bedroom apartment with features such as:
- Swimming pools
- Fitness centers
- Concierge services
…will likely cost more than a basic apartment with fewer features. When looking for an apartment under $800, it may be necessary to compromise on amenities in order to meet the budget.
4. Lease Terms
The length of the lease can also influence the rent. Typically, long-term leases (e.g., 12 months) offer better rates compared to short-term leases. Renters might find a more affordable one-bedroom apartment if they are willing to commit to a longer lease.
Tips for Securing a One Bedroom Apartment Under $800
1. Use Apartment Search Websites
Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Craigslist allow you to filter apartment searches based on your budget. These tools can help you quickly locate available listings that meet your price range and criteria.
2. Consider Rent-Controlled Apartments
In certain areas, rent-controlled apartments exist, where the rent is capped by law. These can be a great option if you’re living in an area with high demand and limited supply.
3. Negotiate the Rent
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the rent, especially if the property has been on the market for a while. Property owners may be willing to reduce the rent slightly in order to secure a reliable tenant.
4. Look for Rent Specials or Discounts
Sometimes landlords offer promotions such as the first month’s rent free or reduced rent for a limited time. Look for these types of deals, especially in markets with high vacancy rates.
5. Consider Roommates
If you’re having trouble finding a one-bedroom apartment under $800, consider renting a larger apartment with a roommate. This can significantly reduce the cost per person.
What to Expect in a One Bedroom Apartment Under $800
1. Basic Features
One bedroom apartments in the under $800 range typically offer basic features, including:
- One bedroom and one bathroom
- Basic kitchen with essential appliances (stove, fridge)
- Limited or no in-unit laundry
2. Smaller Space
Apartments at this price point are likely to be smaller, ranging from 500 to 750 square feet, depending on the location.
3. Older or Less Updated Units
Many apartments in this price range may have older interiors, with outdated fixtures, flooring, and appliances. However, some landlords may offer recent upgrades or have a plan for future renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cities have the best one-bedroom apartments under $800?
Cities such as Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and St. Louis are known for having affordable rental markets with one-bedroom apartments under $800.
Can I find one-bedroom apartments under $800 near downtown areas?
It’s more challenging but possible. Suburbs or neighborhoods slightly outside downtown areas may offer one-bedroom apartments in your budget, but downtown areas in large cities typically have higher rents.
How can I improve my chances of securing an apartment under $800?
Consider searching in less competitive areas, being flexible with your preferences, and negotiating the rent. Also, look for properties with fewer amenities.
Conclusion
Finding a one-bedroom apartment under $800 is possible, but it requires some effort, flexibility, and research. By understanding the factors that influence rental prices and using effective strategies to search for affordable options, you can secure a great apartment that fits within your budget. Keep an eye on listings, be proactive with negotiations, and consider various locations to find the best deal possible.
