Cheapest Cities to Rent in Indiana (2026)
The cheapest rent in Indiana is in Fort Wayne, IN, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,113/mo and a 1-bedroom $916/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $180/mo below the Indiana average 2BR of $1,293. The table below ranks all 2 of the cheapest cities to rent in Indiana.
Top 2 Cheapest Cities in Indiana
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Fort Wayne, IN | $892 | $916 | $1,113 | $1,381 | $44,520/yr |
#2 | Indianapolis, IN | $1,118 | $1,267 | $1,473 | $1,907 | $58,920/yr |
Why These Indiana Cities Are Affordable
Indiana ranks among the most affordable states for renters. Indianapolis offers city living at fraction of coastal prices, while smaller cities provide exceptional value for those prioritizing low costs.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 80
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in Indiana's cheapest cities:
How Indiana's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Budget-conscious renters
- ✓Healthcare professionals
- ✓Manufacturing workers
- ✓Young professionals seeking value
Considerations
- •Limited major metros
- •Cold winters
- •Fewer cultural amenities than coastal cities
Cheapest Rent in Indiana: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in Indiana?
The cheapest rent in Indiana is in Fort Wayne, IN, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,113/month and a 1-bedroom $916/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Indianapolis ($1,473).
How much can I save renting in Indiana's cheapest cities?
By choosing Indiana's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $1,293, you could save $180/month or $2,160/year on rent.
Is rent in Indiana's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Fort Wayne costs $1,113/month, which is $460/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in Indiana's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in Indiana at $1,113/month, you need approximately $44,520/year based on the 30% of income guideline.