Most Affordable Areas for Students to Live in Atlanta

Choosing the Best Student-Friendly Neighborhoods in Atlanta

Moving to Atlanta for college or university can be exciting but also stressful, especially when it comes to finding affordable student housing. Atlanta is filled with culture, entertainment, and educational opportunities, but rent in some areas can be quite high. To help you make the smartest decision, we’ve compiled a guide to the most affordable areas for students to live in Atlanta. This article is packed with insights on cheap rent, budget apartments, and safe student neighborhoods near major colleges and universities.

What Makes a Neighborhood Affordable and Student-Friendly?

Before exploring Atlanta's best affordable areas, it’s important to understand what makes a neighborhood a good fit for students. You’re likely seeking:

• Low or moderate monthly rent
• Proximity to public transportation
• Easy access to campus (Georgia State, Georgia Tech, Emory, Spelman, and more)
• Availability of roommate-friendly apartments
• Local amenities (groceries, dining, parks, study spaces)
• Safe environment for students

Atlanta is a large city, and student housing options range from bustling urban districts to quieter residential pockets. Choosing the right one can significantly affect your college experience and your budget.

Top Affordable Neighborhoods for Students in Atlanta

Atlanta’s student population is diverse and spread across the city. These neighborhoods stand out because of their pricing, amenities, and convenience.

1. West End

The West End is a historic Atlanta neighborhood popular with students from Georgia State and Spelman College. Known for its artistic culture, historic homes, and vibrant local businesses, rent here is among the lowest in Atlanta.

• Median rent for a 1BR apartment: $1,050–$1,250/month
• Close to the Atlanta University Center (AUC)
• Easy MARTA access for commuting
• Grocery stores and affordable eateries nearby

2. Decatur (Near Agnes Scott and Emory University)

Located just east of downtown, Decatur offers small-town charm with a lively downtown area. It’s a favorite for Emory and Agnes Scott students looking for cheap apartments and roommate options.

• Median rent: $950–$1,200/month for shared apartments
• Safe neighborhoods and walkable streets
• Decatur Square filled with local shops and coffee spots
• Quick transit to Midtown and main campus areas

3. Clarkston

If you value peaceful living and cheap rent, Clarkston is a top choice. It's a multicultural suburb with frequent bus service to downtown Atlanta.

• Median rent: $900–$1,100 for 1BR or roommate setups
• Popular with Georgia State Perimeter students
• Access to parks and international grocery stores
• Lower crime rates compared to inner-city areas

4. East Atlanta Village (EAV)

East Atlanta Village, or EAV, is a creative community packed with affordable apartments, music venues, and local businesses. It appeals to students at Georgia State and Georgia Tech due to its indie vibe and reasonable living costs.

• Shared apartments or studios: $1,000–$1,250/month
• Lively nightlife and art spaces
• Minutes from downtown via car or bike
• Pet-friendly rentals are widely available

5. Midtown Offshoots (Home Park & SoNo)

Proximity to Georgia Tech and artsy culture makes Home Park and SoNo favorites for undergraduates and graduate students. While true Midtown can be pricey, these nearby pockets offer cheaper rents and a strong student community.

• Median rent: $1,100–$1,300/month (often lower with roommates)
• Walking or biking distance to Georgia Tech campus
• Access to Midtown’s dining, parks, and study lounges
• Jonas Park and plenty of coffee shops cater to student life

Tips for Finding Cheap Student Apartments in Atlanta

In a city as large and dynamic as Atlanta, landing an affordable student apartment often means getting creative and acting fast. Consider these strategies to reduce your cost of living:

• Search for roommate opportunities—splitting rent lowers monthly payments
• Look for student-only apartment complexes with fixed pricing
• Check university housing bulletins or Facebook groups for off-campus housing leads
• Explore student discounts for public transport (MARTA passes)
• Tour neighborhoods on weekends and at night to assess vibe and safety
• Consider housing further from the main campus but near a MARTA or bus stop

What Students Value Most in Atlanta Neighborhoods

Student renters in Atlanta consistently rate the following features as most important:

• Affordable rent under $1,200/month
• Safety and well-lit streets
• Quick commute to classes
• Community of fellow students
• Amenities such as laundry, WiFi, and on-site security

Some neighborhoods may also offer special housing programs or rental incentives for students. Always ask landlords about current offers.

Affordable Living Resources for Atlanta Students

Don’t forget to check with your college’s student services for help. Most Atlanta colleges—like Georgia State, Emory, Spelman, and Georgia Tech—have offices dedicated to off-campus housing. Here are a few resources to start your search:

• University housing portals with roommate matching
• Sublets and lease takeovers for short-term affordability
• Atlanta rental Facebook groups
• Online platforms like Zillow, Apartment List, and HotPads
• Campus bulletin boards with current student listings

Frequently Asked Questions about Affordable Student Housing in Atlanta

What is the average cost of student rent in Atlanta?

For most neighborhoods popular with students, the average rent for a one-bedroom or shared apartment ranges between $1,000 and $1,200 per month. Prices are lower with roommates or further from downtown.

Which Atlanta area is safest for student living?

Decatur and Clarkston are often rated as safer areas for students, with lower crime rates and a strong sense of community. Always check the latest crime data and tour the neighborhood before deciding.

How do I find a roommate in Atlanta?

Check your university’s housing portal, join Facebook groups for Atlanta student housing, or use platforms like Roomster and Craigslist. Many students also find roommates through campus organizations or classmate referrals.

Does Atlanta have student-only apartment buildings?

Yes, several complexes near Georgia State, Georgia Tech, and Emory are designed for students. These offer affordable rent, all-inclusive utilities, and community amenities tailored for college life.

What is the cheapest way to commute around Atlanta as a student?

Students should use MARTA for affordable commuting, especially with discounted student pass options. Many neighborhoods listed here are on popular bus and train lines for fast access to schools and downtown.