Finding cheap apartments for rent Philadelphia under $800 is challenging in today’s market, but not impossible with the right strategies, neighborhoods, and timing. While the region’s overall rental prices have climbed significantly — with the average rent in Philadelphia nearing $1,992 per month — plenty of listings still fall below the $800 mark if you know where to look and how to act quickly.
Why Philadelphia Can Be Affordable for Renters
Philadelphia blends urban amenities with a varied rental market. From historic rowhomes to modest studio units and shared houses in transitional neighborhoods, you’ll see a range of prices. Though rentals under $800 are becoming somewhat rare due to broader housing trends across Pennsylvania — with low-cost rentals declining over the last decade — they still exist in pockets across the city.
Some recent policy changes also aim to lower hurdles for renters, such as a cap on application fees to $50, easing initial move-in barriers for many applicants.
Where to Look for Cheap Apartments for Rent Philadelphia Under $800
Unlocking the best deals usually means exploring areas outside central luxury districts or seeking smaller units like studio apartments or senior-friendly housing. Below are several neighborhoods and areas where sub-$800 apartments are most commonly found:
North & Northeast Philadelphia
Neighborhoods like North Philadelphia East frequently list units under $800. Options here include studio and one-bedroom apartments around $600–$750, with various floor plans and sizes available.
- Example: Units on W Allegheny Ave or N Bouvier St offering 1-bed apartments for roughly $700–$750.
- Example: Small shared houses or multi-bedroom rentals where rooms can be under $800 with roommates.
West Philadelphia & University City
West Philly and University City usually have slightly more accessible rents, particularly in older buildings or houses converted into apartments. Listings often include:
- Studio apartments near 340 N 62nd St around $725/month.
- 1-bed apartments near 4122 Ogden St around $745/month.
These areas also benefit from access to public transit and proximity to jobs and universities — a plus if you’re balancing commute cost savings with lower rent.
Center City & Surrounding Edges
While most of Center City has high rents, there are occasional sub-$800 options in older or smaller buildings like Spring Lofts or senior housing units.
Keep in mind that Central Philadelphia options move quickly. If you find something in the $750–$800 range, prepare your application immediately as competition on these units is stiff.
Types of Apartments You’ll See for Under $800
Rentals at this price point vary widely — from compact studios to multi-bedroom shared options.
Studios
Studio apartments under $800 are usually the most plentiful. These units combine living, sleeping, and kitchen space into a single area and are ideal for:
- Students
- Single professionals
- Minimalist lifestyles
Examples include affordable listings on apartments platforms where studios are cited around $600–$795.
One-Bedroom Apartments
One-bedroom units are slightly harder to find but often appear in neighborhoods outside the city core. They offer more privacy than a studio and can serve as an affordable space for roommates or individuals. Listings around $700–$800 are typical.
Shared Houses or Multi-Bedroom Units
Sharing a multi-bedroom unit — with private rooms and shared communal areas — is one of the most reliable ways to keep your total rent under $800 while enjoying more space. Some rooms in larger homes or split rowhomes rent for $600–$750 or even below depending on location and demand.
How to Find These Cheap Apartments Fast
With limited inventory and high demand, timing and flexibility are crucial. Use the strategies below:
Monitor Listings Daily
Rentals in this price range appear and disappear quickly. Visit reputable sites multiple times per day, and enable alerts wherever possible.
Apply Ahead of Time
Have all your documents, references, and proof of income ready so you can submit applications the moment you find a good match. This includes credit information, recent pay stubs, and a budget summary showing you can cover rent consistently.
Consider Roommates
Splitting rent in a multi-bedroom setup can significantly broaden your choices. Rooms listed in shared Philadelphia houses often fall under your target range when utilities are included. 10
Practical Tips for Renters on a Budget
Beyond just searching for apartments, adopting smart habits can help you secure better deals:
- Search Off-Peak — Winter months often see lower rent prices. 11
- Negotiate Lease Terms — If a unit is listed just above your budget, ask about specials or longer lease incentives.
- Explore Public Transportation — Broaden your neighborhood criteria by evaluating transit connections — sometimes a slightly longer commute is worth a big rent reduction.
Helpful External Resources
To maximize your search, here are some valuable online tools and guides:
- Zillow’s Philadelphia listings under $800 — A frequently updated source of cheap apartment listings and contact details.
- RentCafe’s under $800 apartments — Another database with photos, floor plans, and filters to refine your search.
Smart Links From TheApartmentRow.com
For related but slightly broader resources on Philadelphia rentals, check out these pages on The Apartment Row:
- Philadelphia Apartments Overview – The Apartment Row — A guide to the Philadelphia rental market and tips for renters.
- Studio Apartments in Boca Raton – The Apartment Row — Learn more about studio living in Philly and how to make the most of compact spaces.
- Philadelphia Renters Guide – The Apartment Row — Tips and legal pointers for renters in Philly including affordability strategies.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can Find Cheap Apartments
Finding cheap apartments for rent Philadelphia under $800 takes effort, persistence, and creativity, but it’s still feasible — particularly if you broaden your search area, consider roommates, and stay plugged into new listings. With rental prices shifting citywide, acting fast on new units — and knowing how to negotiate or prepare your documents ahead — will give you a better chance of snagging an affordable home in this historic and vibrant city.