Affordable housing in Sacramento, or anywhere in California for that matter, can seem like an unattainable dream. The Sacramento median home price is $513,500 while the average rent is now $1,850. Whether you’re buying a house in Sacramento or renting, don’t give up hope: there are affordable housing options both in the city and in the surrounding suburbs.
As we explore cheap places to live near Sacramento, keep in mind you may qualify for first-time homebuyer programs in California that can make homeownership more affordable. Don’t forget to consider easily overlooked expenses, either, such as property taxes or the cost of public transportation or gas if you end up with a long commute.
Here are some affordable small towns in Northern California near Sacramento and neighborhoods in the city with an average home price or rent below the Sacramento average.
Table of Contents
Cheapest Places to Live in Sacramento
Looking for Sacramento affordable housing options? While Sacramento has a cost of living below the California average, that doesn’t mean it’s affordable! Still, there are several neighborhoods with housing costs below average. Here are some of the best cheap places to live in Sacramento.
Gardenland – One of the Best Affordable Sacramento Neighborhoods for Families
- Average rent: $1,935
- Median home price: $488,000
Rent is very close to the city’s average and homes are less expensive which makes Gardenland stand out as an affordable place to live for families. Sometimes called South Natomas, Gardenland was established by farm workers in the 1920s and remains the richest agricultural area within the city limits. It’s a close-knit community where the Gardenland Northgate Community Association organizes local events and sponsors local sports teams and children’s organizations.
You’ll find a wide variety of ranch-style homes in Gardenland including Spanish stucco homes with tile roofs and homes with traditional siding and shingle roofs. Some homes were built in the 1940s but most were constructed in the 1960s with large, fenced backyards.
Old North Sacramento – An Affordable Up-and-Coming Neighborhood Popular With Young Professionals
- Average rent: $1,808
- Median home price: $360,000
Old North Sacramento, often referred to as simply “Uptown,” is a vibrant and historic neighborhood brimming with character. Located just a few miles northeast of downtown Sacramento, this area is known for its eclectic mix of vintage charm and modern amenities. One of its highlights is the burgeoning arts scene centered around the Del Paso Boulevard Arts District, which hosts a variety of art galleries, studios, and cultural events. The neighborhood is also home to McClellan Park, a former Air Force base transformed into a bustling commercial hub.
With its affordable housing options and easy access to public transportation, Old North Sacramento continues to attract young professionals and families looking for an affordable yet lively community.
View this post on Instagram
Hagginwood – A Hidden Gem in Northern Sacramento With Rich Historical Roots
- Average rent: $1,795
- Median home price: $400,000
Hagginwood, nestled in the northern part of Sacramento, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. This neighborhood is known for its rich historical roots, established in the early 20th century and named after the prominent Haggin family. The area boasts an assortment of charming bungalows and mid-century homes, many of which are surrounded by lush, mature trees.
Hagginwood is home to several parks, including the expansive Hagginwood Park, which provides recreational opportunities for families and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the top attractions in the area is the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex, a historic golf facility with a driving range and two 18-hole courses. Its close proximity to major highways and public transportation makes commuting a breeze, while good schools and community services add to its appeal. This unassuming yet vibrant neighborhood is perfect for those seeking an affordable, family-friendly environment with a touch of historical character.
South Oak Park – A Diverse Neighborhood Near Tahoe Park With Vibrant Cultural History
- Average rent: $2,855
- Median home price: $362,500
South Oak Park, situated near the scenic and popular Tahoe Park neighborhood, is known for its diversity, rich culture, and low cost of living. This neighborhood, located southeast of downtown, offers a mix of historic homes and new developments. South Oak Park is rich in cultural landmarks, including the iconic Guild Theater, which regularly hosts live performances and film screenings. The area also boasts several local parks, community centers, and a bustling farmer’s market, making it a fun place to live.
Southeast Village – One of the Cheapest Places to Buy a House in Sacramento
- Average rent: $1,665
- Median home price: $349,000 (very few sales)
Southeast Village, located in the southeastern part of Sacramento, is a tranquil residential neighborhood and the cheapest place to live in Sacramento for renters and home buyers. The area is characterized by its well-maintained homes, many of which feature spacious yards and mature trees. Kennedy Estates is an affordable apartment building in the western area of the community. The rest of Southeast Village is mostly single-family homes.
Southeast Village boasts tons of green spaces, including neighborhood parks that provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities and community gatherings. The community is also supported by several great local schools, including the Camellia Basic magnet school, which makes it an attractive option for families. With its affordable housing and close-knit community, it’s easy to see what you’ll love about life in Southeast Village.
Parkway – A Peaceful Neighborhood With Great Connectivity in Southwestern Sacramento
- Average rent: $1,615
- Median home price: $425,000
Parkway, located in the southwestern part of Sacramento, is a peaceful and family-friendly neighborhood known for its accessibility and welcoming community. This area is highly regarded for its central location and amenities like the Franklin Boyce Community Park. Parkway’s strategic location near major highways and public transit routes ensures convenient connectivity to downtown and surrounding areas, making it an excellent choice for commuters. The neighborhood is home to a mix of cozy, single-family homes and modern apartment complexes with both rental properties and real estate for sale well below the Sacramento average.
View this post on Instagram
Meadowview – An Affordable Place to Live in Southwestern Sacramento
- Average rent: $1,440
- Median home price: $415,000
Meadowview, located in southwestern Sacramento close to West Sacramento, is a community-oriented neighborhood celebrated for its cultural diversity and strong sense of community. The area is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, often highlighted through community events and local festivals that bring residents together. Meadowview features a mix of suburban homes, apartments, and green spaces, providing a balanced lifestyle for its inhabitants.
You’ll enjoy rent and home prices well below average with the perfect location close to the Sacramento River, I-5, and attractions like the Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course.
Affordable Northern California Towns in the Sacramento Area
If you’re willing to step outside the city limits, you can find even more affordable living. Sacramento County is a great area with tons of small cities and towns that are both affordable and safe. Ready to explore affordable Northern California cities in the Sacramento area? Here are some of the best towns near Sacramento with affordable real estate.
North Highlands – A Vibrant Suburb With Affordable Living & Great Amenities
- Rent: $1,450
- Median home price: $415,500
North Highlands is a cheap place to live near Sacramento with tons of amenities and a great quality of life. Home to 48,000 people, North Highlands is popular with families and millennials thanks to its many attractions like Skyzone Sacramento, Scandia Fun Center with go-karts and mini golf, and the Aerospace Museum of California. Whether you’re planning to rent or buy, you’ll find living in North Highlands offers a great value.
View this post on Instagram
Rio Linda – Affordable Real Estate & a Small Town Feel
- Rent: $1,510
- Median home price: $433,000
Rio Linda is a smaller suburb with about 16,500 residents. Near North Highlands, it’s just 15 minutes from Sacramento yet offers a great quality of life at a fraction of the cost. It’s best known for the Roy Hayer Memorial Race Track and Bell Acqua Lake, a private waterski lake and one of the best ways to beat the heat in the summer.
Foothill Farms – A Safe and Family-Friendly Suburb With Plenty to Offer
- Rent: $1,700
- Median home price: $425,000
Home to about 36,000 residents, Foothill Farms is a large, family-friendly community known for its close-knit environment and recreational activities. You’ll enjoy picnics and new playgrounds at Robert Frost Park and Foothill Community Park and the California State Railroad Museum, a hit with kids, is just a quick drive away. The town is also home to a Cinemark movie theater.
Foothill Farms has more apartments and condos than most communities in the area plus new subdivisions if you’re looking for new construction. Renters and home buyers alike will find a great value in Foothill Farms, one of the top safe neighborhoods in the area.
Florin – Affordable Living With Shopping & Affordable Houses for Sale
- Rent: $1,500
- Median home price: $433,500
Home to over 50,000 people, Florin is a rapidly growing suburb known for its affordability, shopping, and convenient location. You can enjoy easy access to Sacramento and take advantage of one of the lowest median home prices in the area.
Florin is close to many employment centers including the Methodist Hospital of Sacramento, Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, Costco, CarMax, and Sam’s Club. There are several large shopping centers in Florin and many community parks. You’ll find many housing options ranging from apartments and small single-family homes to new subdivisions.
View this post on Instagram
La Riviera – Affordable Lifestyle on the American River
- Rent: $1,800
- Median home price: $508,750
La Riviera is one of the few riverfront neighborhoods with a cost of living below the city’s average, even if it isn’t by much!
Nestled along the picturesque American River, La Riviera is a serene residential suburb known for its lush greenery and tranquil living. Enjoy a break from bustling city life while remaining conveniently close to the urban amenities of the bigger city. La Riviera boasts tons of parks, such as the beloved Larchmont Community Park, which features playgrounds, athletic fields, tennis courts, and nature walking trails. This riverside community is a great place to live if you enjoy outdoor activities, with ample opportunities for jogging, picnicking, and kayaking.
As you can see, there are tons of safe, cheap places to live in Sacramento where you can stay within your budget without sacrificing quality of life. Have you found the right place to call home? The Sacramento movers at Mother Lode Van & Storage are ready to help with a seamless, stress-free move. Call our team today at (916) 631-4285 to get started with your personalized moving quote!
