The interior of a one-bedroom apartment.

Finding 1-Bedroom Apartments for Under $500

Naomi Kim | Jun 23, 2025
Lifestyle

How to Find Affordable Housing

Finding 1-bedroom apartments for under $500 in the United States can be challenging, especially in today's rising rental market. However, with the right strategies, resources and awareness, it is still possible to find affordable housing in certain regions. Let's explore where to find low-cost rentals, the types of assistance available, the most affordable cities in the U.S. and how to avoid common scams.

Where to Find Affordable Rentals

Online Platforms

The internet is the most powerful tool for apartment hunting. You can use websites like:

These platforms allow users to filter listings by price and location. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are especially useful for low-cost rentals posted directly by landlords or tenants looking to sublet.

Local Housing Authorities

Most cities have housing authorities that manage public and subsidized housing. These can include income-based apartments or Section 8 housing vouchers that significantly reduce rent. Contacting the local Public Housing Authority (PHA) is a good starting point for low-income renters.

Community Boards and Nonprofits

Community centers, local churches and nonprofits often have bulletin boards or connections to landlords offering low-cost units. Organizations like United Way or Salvation Army may also provide housing referrals.

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Cheapest Cities in the USA for Rentals

Affordable apartments under $500 are rare in major metropolitan areas but more common in smaller cities and rural regions. Here are some of the most affordable places where you’re more likely to find a 1-bedroom unit within this budget:

  • Wichita, Kansas. A low cost of living and a stable rental market make Wichita one of the most affordable cities in the U.S.
  • Toledo, Ohio. Rentals here are among the lowest in the country, with many apartments listed below $500.
  • Fort Wayne, Indiana. This city offers a blend of urban amenities and very reasonable rental prices.
  • Little Rock, Arkansas. The city has numerous 1-bedroom units below $500, particularly in older buildings.
  • Shreveport, Louisiana. Known for its low housing costs, Shreveport frequently has apartments in this price range.

Other affordable states include West Virginia, Mississippi and parts of Oklahoma and Missouri.

Living Support and Housing Assistance

If your income is limited, several programs can help reduce housing costs:

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this program provides rent subsidies based on income. Recipients can use the voucher to find housing on the private market.

Public Housing

Owned and managed by local PHAs, public housing units are offered at reduced rates. Eligibility depends on income and family size.

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties

These are privately owned buildings offering affordable rent to low-income tenants. Search for these properties on state housing websites or via HUD.

Nonprofit Organizations

Groups like Catholic Charities, Volunteers of America and local housing coalitions often provide temporary housing or assistance with deposits and first month’s rent.

Scams to Watch Out For

When searching for very low-cost rentals, it's important to be cautious. Scammers often target people looking for cheap housing with fake listings. Here’s how to protect yourself:

  • Never send money before seeing the property. Scammers often ask for deposits upfront without allowing you to view the apartment.
  • Beware of prices that seem too good to be true. If the rental price is far below market value and the listing has vague or inconsistent details, it may be a scam.
  • Verify landlord identity. Ask for identification or confirm property ownership through local tax records.
  • Use secure payment methods. Avoid cash, wire transfers or gift cards. Legitimate landlords will use verifiable methods like checks or electronic payments via secure platforms.

Final Tips for Success

  • Expand your location search. Look in suburbs, small towns or less trendy neighborhoods where demand is lower.
  • Be flexible. You may need to compromise on amenities, square footage, or proximity to downtown areas.
  • Network. Word of mouth is powerful. Let friends, coworkers, and community members know you're looking for a place.
  • Consider shared housing. Renting a room in a shared apartment or home can be an affordable alternative if solo living proves too costly.

Finding Your Next Home

Finding a 1-bedroom apartment for under $500 in the U.S. takes effort and flexibility, but it is achievable, especially in the Midwest and South. By using a combination of online tools, local resources and government assistance programs, and by staying alert to potential scams, you can secure a safe and affordable place to live.