Cheap Apartments for Rent in Iowa City, IA from $600 (82 Rentals)

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Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.

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Apartments at Iowa
1 Bedroom Apartments

Apartments at Iowa

507 E College StIowa City, IA 52240
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Apartments at Iowa
Studio to 6 Bedroom Apartments

Apartments at Iowa

355 S Gilbert StIowa City, IA 52240
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Carriage Hill
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Carriage Hill

700-710 Carriage HlIowa City, IA 52246
Corporate Housing
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Finkbine Lane
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Finkbine Lane

302 Finkbine LnIowa City, IA 52246
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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

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Sycamore Coop
1 Bedroom Apartments

Sycamore Coop

2001 Kountry Ln SEIowa City, IA 52240
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308 N Linn St
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

308 N Linn St

308 N Linn StIowa City, IA 52245
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Oakcrest
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Oakcrest

801 Oakcrest StIowa City, IA 52246
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Cross Park Avenue
2 Bedroom Apartments

Cross Park Avenue

801-845 Cross Park AveIowa City, IA 52240
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625 E Burlington St
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

625 E Burlington St

625 E Burlington StIowa City, IA 52240
Student Housing
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Violet Square
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Violet Square

501-511 S Gilbert StIowa City, IA 52240
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Whiteway 2000
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Whiteway 2000

210 S Clinton StIowa City, IA 52240
Student Housing
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Parish Apartments
Studio Apartments

Parish Apartments

108 McLean StIowa City, IA 52246
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Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs

Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

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5 Woolf Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

5 Woolf Ave

5 Woolf AveIowa City, IA 52246
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1165 S Riverside Dr
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

1165 S Riverside Dr

1165 S Riverside DrIowa City, IA 52246
Student Housing
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530 N Dubuque St
2 Bedroom Apartments

530 N Dubuque St

530 N Dubuque StIowa City, IA 52245
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Hawkeye Park
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Hawkeye Park

432 S Dubuque StIowa City, IA 52240
Student Housing
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929 Iowa Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

929 Iowa Ave

929 Iowa AveIowa City, IA 52240
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Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

Iowa City, IA Local Guide

Photo of Justin Habersaat - Editing Staff
Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Iowa City, IA

Pricing Updated: 01/02/2026

Current apartment rentals in the Iowa City, IA area range in price from $690 to $3,300 with an overall median price of $1,830. The three Iowa City neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Oak Woods at $690, Court Hill at $690, and Weber at $699. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Iowa City Apartments for rent:

NeighborhoodMedian PriceMin PriceAvailable Units
Oak Woods$1,212$69027
Court Hill$1,240$69029
Weber$1,750$69968
County Center$1,800$77057
Hoover$1,800$69065
Horn$1,800$8308
Lucas$1,800$69069
Northside$1,800$8759
Peninsula Neighborhood$1,800$69536
Pepperwood$1,800$69075

Cheapest Available Iowa City Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in Iowa City, IA is a Studio unit found at Lakewood Hills Apartments in the Old Mill Creek neighborhood priced from $695. Aspire at West Campus in the Coralview Heights neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 2 Beds apartment currently listed from $812. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Iowa City apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Lakewood Hills ApartmentsStudioStudio,1BA$695
Aspire at West Campus2x2 Herky - Unfurnished2BR,2BA$812
Forest Ridge1 Bed/1 Bath1BR,1BA$830
Regency Heights (55+ Community)One Bedroom1BR,1BA$875
Sycamore ApartmentsOne Bedroom Units1BR,1BA$895
Knollridge Garden Apartments2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$925
Nex Senior (55+) ApartmentsTwo Bedroom2BR,1BA$948
Coral North ApartmentsTwo Bedroom2BR,1BA$966
Claremont Apartments2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$990
808 on 5thStudioStudio,1BA$995

Best Value Apartments for Rent in Iowa City, IA

As of January 02, 2026 the best value apartment in the Iowa City area is the $1.29 price per square foot 628 N Linn St Model at 628 N Linn St, Unit #1 in the in the Saddlebrook neighborhood starting from $1,800. The second greatest value Iowa City apartment is the 3 Bdrm -Sublet Model at Westgate Villa starting at $1,365 with a $1.05 price per square foot in the Cottage Hill neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Iowa City apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
628 N Linn St, Unit #1628 N Linn St4BR,1BA$1.29
Westgate Villa3 Bdrm -Sublet3BR,2BA$1.05
Mane Gate ApartmentsRemodeled 3 Bed / 2 Bath with W/D3BR,2BA$1.32
926 Harlocke St (IC)2 BR/1 BA2BR,1BA$1.20
Knollridge Garden Apartments3BR/1.0BA3BR,1BA$1.22
Orchards & Woodlands2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$1.22
Nex Senior (55+) ApartmentsTwo Bedroom2BR,1BA$1.06
Claremont Apartments2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$1.13
1000 Melrose Ave, Unit #1 or #2 Melrose1000 Melrose Ave1BR,1BA$1.24
The Quarters Iowa CityA2 - 2x12BR,1BA$0.93

Don't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.

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The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.

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Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.

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Quick Rent Budget Calculator

How much rent can you afford?

The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.

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Iowa City Overview

Iowa City is the perfect town for people of all ages. From the lively college scene to the quaint and cultural qualities throughout the many neighborhoods, Iowa City should be a top pick for many apartment-seekers. Additionally, Iowa City apartments cost much less than apartments around the country, so finding your next apartment in the area can also be very beneficial for your wallet. Whether you enjoy watching a competitive college football game or you like a peaceful bike ride around town, Iowa City is the perfect place to call home and enjoy life to the fullest.

Why live in Iowa City, IA?

If you love mild temperatures, peace and quiet, and a quaint college town, then Iowa City is perfect for you. This town is ideal for raising a family, enjoying retirement, or just trying somewhere new. And with a bustling sports scene, many historic buildings, and a thriving economy, Iowa City is a great place to live.

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore Iowa City, IA Rentals by Map

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Iowa City Apartments

What is a cheap apartment in Iowa City?

A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in Iowa City is under $995.

What is the price of a cheap apartment in Iowa City?

The cheapest apartment in Iowa City is Forest Ridge which is listed at $830, while the average apartment in Iowa City costs $1,830.

What types of apartments are the cheapest in Iowa City?

Student, low-income, and by-the-bed apartments are typically the cheapest rentals in most cities, though they require qualifying criteria to rent. There are 288 regular apartments in Iowa City that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.

How do the prices of cheap apartments compare to the average apartment in Iowa City?

Cheap apartments in Iowa City have an average cost of $799 which is $1,031 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in Iowa City.

Expert Rental Resources

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips

Written by: Justin Habersaat

Getting your apartment ready for the holidays can be exciting but sometimes challenging in a smaller space. Here are some modern tips to keep things festive, safe, and inviting this season.

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Renting with Roommates: Realistic Expectations for Shared Lease

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Given the high costs for housing, I have found that many people are looking for a roommate to share expenses. These arrangements can increase opportunities for more desirable and larger spaces.

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Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Back in the day when I rented one of my first apartments, the property didn’t even have laundry in the building. Now, rental properties are often competing against each other to provide the best amenities.

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How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate!