
Cheap Apartments for Rent in Iowa City, IA from $600 (105 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in Iowa City.


IA City Lofts

308 N Linn St

1305 Sunset St

Forest Ridge

Regency Heights (55+ Community)

Total Monthly Price
319 E Washington St, Unit 100

Total Monthly Price
2601 Westwinds Dr, Unit 4

Seville

Sycamore Apartments
What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much
Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.

Emerald Ct

1165 S Riverside Dr

The Forum at Lincoln

Riverfront Crossings

Total Monthly Price
23 S Dubuque St

Total Monthly Price
810 Benton Dr, Unit #11

330 Ridgeland Ave

Mane Gate Apartments

109 S Johnson St

Westgate Villa
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.

Orchards & Woodlands

173 S Scott Blvd

Total Monthly Price
512 E Burlington St, Unit 1

Willow Ridge Apartments

530 E Washington St

Apartments at Iowa

Apartments at Iowa

Michael Street Apartments

1100 Oakcrest Apartments

Carriage Hill
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.

Finkbine Lane

518 N Van Buren St

Sycamore Coop

Del Ray Ridge Apartments

633 Walnut St

Oakcrest

Cross Park Avenue

625 E Burlington St

906 E Burlington Street Iowa City IA

912 2nd Ave
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.

Violet Square

2635 Westwinds Dr

415 S Van Buren St

814 Benton Dr

Parish Apartments

5 Woolf Ave

Town Square Apartments

SoDo Flats

631 S Van Buren St

1054 Newton Rd
How I Find the Perfect Rental for My Clients: A Real Estate Pro's Guide
Finding the right apartment starts with three things: location, cost, and amenities. Get the insider perspective from a real estate professional on how to nail all three.
Iowa City, IA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Iowa City?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap Iowa City Studio Apartments | $1,263 | $695 | $1,850 |
| Cheap Iowa City 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,256 | $734 | $2,019 |
| Cheap Iowa City 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,309 | $812 | $2,400 |
| Cheap Iowa City 3 Bedroom Apartments | $1,310 | $695 | $3,300 |
| Cheap Iowa City 4 Bedroom Apartments | $1,957 | $725 | $2,900 |
Browse Top Apartments in Iowa City
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Iowa City, IA Local Guide

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Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Iowa City, IA
Pricing Updated: 06/12/2026Current apartment rentals in the Iowa City, IA area range in price from $695 to $3,300 with an overall median price of $1,898. The three Iowa City neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Oak Woods at $695, Court Hill at $695, and Northside at $875. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Iowa City Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oak Woods | $1,300 | $695 | 11 |
| Court Hill | $1,315 | $695 | 11 |
| Northside | $1,715 | $875 | 22 |
| Weber | $1,790 | $725 | 30 |
| Horn | $1,795 | $825 | 10 |
| Westgate | $1,795 | $825 | 11 |
| County Center | $1,800 | $734 | 82 |
| Hoover | $1,800 | $695 | 48 |
| Pepperwood | $1,800 | $695 | 89 |
| Roosevelt | $1,800 | $780 | 69 |
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. 308 N Linn St in the Fair Meadows neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $800. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Iowa City apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lakewood Hills Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $695 |
| 308 N Linn St | Studio | 1BR,1BA | $800 |
| Aspire at West Campus | 2x2 Herky - Unfurnished | 2BR,2BA | $812 |
| Forest Ridge | 1 Bed/1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $850 |
| Regency Heights (55+ Community) | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $875 |
| Seville | 1 BR - Sublet | 1BR,1BA | $905 |
| 1165 S Riverside Dr | Studio - Twin | Studio,1BA | $990 |
| Riverfront Crossings | Studio | Studio,1BA | $995 |
| 808 on 5th | Studio | Studio,1BA | $995 |
| Claremont Apartments | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $1,025 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Iowa City, IA
As of June 13, 2026 the best value apartment in the Iowa City area is the $1.44 price per square foot G Model at The Hawthorne in the in the The Pond's Edge neighborhood starting from $1,800. The second greatest value Iowa City apartment is the 2BR/1.5BA Model at 220 River Street starting at $1,675 with a $1.38 price per square foot in the Saddlebrook neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Iowa City apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Hawthorne | G | 3BR,2BA | $1.44 |
| 220 River Street | 2BR/1.5BA | 2BR,1.5BA | $1.38 |
| The Quarters Iowa City | C1 - 3x3 | 3BR,3BA | $0.59 |
| Newton Pointe Apartments | 3 bed 1 bath | 3BR,1BA | $1.30 |
| 1453-1458 Eastview Dr | 1455 Eastview | 2BR,1.5BA | $1.08 |
| 926 Harlocke St (IC) | 2 BR/1 BA | 2BR,1BA | $1.25 |
| Claremont Apartments | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $1.16 |
| Belmont Apartments | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $1.30 |
| Seville | 1 BR - Sublet | 1BR,1BA | $1.34 |
| Regency Heights (55+ Community) | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1.43 |
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.
Read ArticleReal Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University
From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.
Read ArticleQuick 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.
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.
Best Local Schools in Iowa City, IA
Lincoln Elementary School
Iowa City High School
Southeast Junior High School
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore Iowa City, IA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in Iowa City, IA
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 $1,025.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in Iowa City?
The cheapest apartment in Iowa City is 308 N Linn St which is listed at $800, while the average apartment in Iowa City costs $1,898.
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 575 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 $791 which is $1,107 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

How I Find the Perfect Rental for My Clients: A Real Estate Pro's Guide
Written by: Robin Stewart
Evaluating rental properties for clients draws many parallels to house-hunting. Whether an apartment, loft, townhouse, or other rental, finding the right place means finding “home” for your client.

Pet-Friendly Renting: Everything You Need to Know Before You Move
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
For so many of us, pets are the best companions and a big part of our lives. For this reason, a pet-friendly house or apartment is often a very important - and nonnegotiable - part of a move.

Creative Ways Developers Reimagine Retail Spaces as Residential Units
Written by: Robin Stewart
Adaptive reuse is when a commercial property is converted and repurposed. The real estate industry has embraced a growing number of these projects.

Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent
Written by: Robin Stewart
Apartment-hunting can be a gargantuan task. Renters have a wish list of items—some luxuries, some necessities—but finding what you seek in the right place is perhaps the most important part of the journey.