Mumbai, commonly referred to as the “City of Dreams,” is a thriving metropolis that welcomes millions of individuals each year—be it young working professionals, students, or couples seeking a busy city life. But with its exorbitant real estate prices and shortage of space, trying to find an affordable home in Mumbai seems a daunting prospect. The silver lining? There are still pockets in and around this sprawling city that offer affordable rentals without sacrificing connectivity, amenities, and quality of life.
As of March 28, 2025, Mumbai’s rental market is still developing, with suburban and peripheral locations becoming popular for their affordability and better infrastructure. If you are a bachelor, a newlywed couple, or a family, this guide helps you identify the top 10 cheap places to live in Mumbai for rent. SEO-optimized, this piece combines the current trends, pragmatic observations, and fresh insights to guide you to your perfect house in this vibrant city.
Why Affordable Living in Mumbai Matters
Mumbai’s cost of living is notoriously high, especially in upscale areas like South Mumbai, Bandra, and Juhu, where rents can easily exceed ₹50,000 per month for a modest 1BHK. For the average Mumbaikar, these prices are out of reach, making affordable neighborhoods a necessity. The key to finding a budget-friendly rental lies in balancing cost with accessibility—proximity to workplaces, public transport, schools, hospitals, and everyday conveniences.
In 2025, with infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Metro expansion and new road networks nearing completion, many previously overlooked areas have become viable options for renters. These neighborhoods offer lower rents, greener surroundings, and a quieter lifestyle, all while staying connected to the city’s commercial hubs.
Let’s dive into the top 10 affordable areas to live in Mumbai for rent, complete with rental price ranges, key features, and why they stand out in today’s market.
1. Borivali: The Suburban Sanctuary
Why It’s Affordable: Lower property rates compared to South Mumbai, excellent connectivity.
Average Rent: ₹18,000 – ₹30,000 (1BHK)
Borivali, located in North Mumbai, is a perennial favorite for renters seeking affordability and convenience. Known as the “suburb of gardens,” it offers a refreshing escape from the city’s chaos with its proximity to Sanjay Gandhi National Park. In 2025, Borivali remains one of Mumbai’s most affordable yet well-connected areas, thanks to its position on the Western Railway line.
- Connectivity: Borivali Railway Station is a major hub, offering fast trains to Churchgate (45 minutes) and easy access to the Western Express Highway.
- Amenities: Reputed schools like Don Bosco High School, hospitals like Apex Multispeciality, and malls like Raghuleela make it family-friendly.
- Lifestyle: A mix of affordable eateries, local markets, and green spaces appeals to both bachelors and families.
Borivali’s rental market is stable, with 1BHK flats starting at ₹18,000 and 2BHK options averaging ₹30,000–40,000. Its blend of urban conveniences and suburban calm makes it a top pick for budget-conscious renters.
2. Kandivali: The Rising Star
Why It’s Affordable: Emerging locality, competitive rental market.
Average Rent: ₹20,000 – ₹32,000 (1BHK)
Kandivali, another North Mumbai suburb, has gained prominence in 2025 as a budget-friendly alternative to pricier areas like Malad and Borivali. Its rapid development, driven by projects like the Goregaon-Mulund Link Road, has made it a hotspot for affordable living.
- Connectivity: Kandivali Railway Station on the Western line and proximity to the Western Express Highway ensure seamless travel.
- Amenities: Schools like St. Joseph’s, hospitals like Shatabdi, and entertainment options like Thakur Mall keep residents engaged.
- Lifestyle: A mix of affordable housing societies and local charm appeals to middle-class families and working professionals.
Rents here range from ₹20,000 for a 1BHK to ₹35,000–45,000 for a 2BHK, making Kandivali a cost-effective choice with room for growth.
3. Ghatkopar: The Metro Marvel
Why It’s Affordable: Older housing stock, metro connectivity.
Average Rent: ₹20,000 – ₹35,000 (1BHK)
Ghatkopar, one of Mumbai’s oldest suburbs, has transformed into a renter’s paradise in 2025, thanks to its strategic location and enhanced transport links. Situated on the Central Railway line and serviced by the Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar Metro, this East Mumbai gem offers affordability without isolation.
- Connectivity: The metro slashes travel time to Andheri to just 20 minutes, while Ghatkopar Railway Station connects to CST in under an hour.
- Amenities: Top schools like The Universal School, hospitals like Ramabai Thackrey, and malls like R City cater to all needs.
- Lifestyle: Bustling markets, street food hubs, and a vibrant community vibe make it lively yet affordable.
With 1BHK rents starting at ₹20,000, Ghatkopar is ideal for young professionals and small families who value accessibility over luxury. Its ongoing redevelopment ensures a steady supply of budget rentals.
4. Chembur: The Peaceful Hub
Why It’s Affordable: Mid-range pricing, excellent connectivity.
Average Rent: ₹22,000 – ₹35,000 (1BHK)
Chembur, located in East Mumbai, strikes a perfect balance between affordability and accessibility. Once an industrial area, it has evolved into a residential haven with a peaceful vibe and robust infrastructure in 2025.
- Connectivity: Close to the Eastern Express Highway and 15 km from the airport, Chembur also connects to Navi Mumbai via the Sion-Panvel Highway.
- Amenities: Schools like St. Gregorios, hospitals like Apollo Spectra, and malls like K Star enhance livability.
- Lifestyle: Green spaces like Diamond Garden and a thriving food scene make it a renter’s delight.
With 1BHK rents starting at ₹22,000, Chembur is a top pick for families and professionals seeking value for money in a central location.
5. Vikhroli: The Green Retreat
Why It’s Affordable: Suburban pricing, growing demand.
Average Rent: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 (1BHK)
Vikhroli, in North-East Mumbai, is an emerging affordable area in 2025, known for its greenery and improving infrastructure. Surrounded by Powai Hills and Vashi Creek, it offers a serene escape with urban perks.
- Connectivity: Vikhroli Railway Station on the Central line and access to the Eastern Express Highway keep it well-linked.
- Amenities: Schools like St. Joseph’s, hospitals like Godrej Memorial, and local markets serve residents.
- Lifestyle: Parks, theaters, and a laid-back vibe appeal to nature lovers.
Rents start at ₹20,000 for a 1BHK, making Vikhroli a smart choice for budget renters seeking tranquility.
6. Airoli: The Navi Mumbai Gem
Why It’s Affordable: Lower cost of living in Navi Mumbai, modern infrastructure.
Average Rent: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 (1BHK)
Airoli, in Navi Mumbai, is a standout choice for 2025 renters looking for affordability and a modern lifestyle. Connected to Mumbai via the Mulund-Airoli Bridge, it offers a quieter alternative to the city’s hustle.
- Connectivity: Airoli Railway Station and bridges to Thane and Mulund ensure easy access to Mumbai’s core areas.
- Amenities: Schools like DAV Public, hospitals like Criticare, and malls like Rock Point cater to residents.
- Lifestyle: Greenery, parks, and a planned township vibe make it ideal for families and students.
With 1BHK rents as low as ₹15,000, Airoli is a budget-friendly haven with a high quality of life.
7. Mira Road: The Spacious Suburb
Why It’s Affordable: Peripheral location, lower property rates.
Average Rent: ₹12,000 – ₹25,000 (1BHK)
Mira Road, just beyond Mumbai’s limits, is a rapidly growing suburb that offers spacious homes at unbeatable prices in 2025. Its proximity to the upcoming Metro Line 10 adds to its appeal.
- Connectivity: Mira Road Railway Station on the Western line connects to Churchgate in about an hour.
- Amenities: Schools like Holy Cross, hospitals like Bhaktivedanta, and malls like Thakur Mall ensure convenience.
- Lifestyle: Green spaces and affordable dining options make it family-friendly.
With 1BHK rents starting at ₹12,000, Mira Road is perfect for those willing to trade distance for affordability and space.
8. Panvel: The Future Hub
Why It’s Affordable: Outskirts location, upcoming infrastructure.
Average Rent: ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 (1BHK)
Panvel, in Navi Mumbai, is a renter’s dream in 2025, offering some of the lowest rents near Mumbai. With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport and metro connectivity, its value is set to soar.
- Connectivity: Panvel Railway Station and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway link it to key areas.
- Amenities: Schools like DAV International, hospitals like Lifeline, and malls like Orion add convenience.
- Lifestyle: Scenic beauty and a relaxed pace suit families and retirees.
Rents here start at just ₹10,000 for a 1BHK, making Panvel a top affordable pick with future potential.
9. Malad: The Working-Class Haven
Why It’s Affordable: High supply of rentals, proximity to business hubs.
Average Rent: ₹18,000 – ₹30,000 (1BHK)
Malad, in North Mumbai, is a bustling suburb that caters to the working class with its affordable rents and proximity to corporate hubs like Mindspace and Infinity IT Park. In 2025, it remains a go-to area for budget renters.
- Connectivity: Malad Railway Station and the Western Express Highway ensure quick commutes to Andheri and beyond.
- Amenities: Infiniti Mall, reputed schools like Ryan International, and hospitals like Zenith Hospital meet all needs.
- Lifestyle: From street food to upscale dining, Malad offers a vibrant yet pocket-friendly lifestyle.
Rents here start at ₹18,000 for a 1BHK, making it one of the cheapest options in Mumbai’s western suburbs.
10. Kurla: The Central Bargain
Why It’s Affordable: Mixed housing options, central location.
Average Rent: ₹20,000 – ₹32,000 (1BHK)
Kurla, in East Mumbai, rounds out our list as a budget-friendly yet centrally located area in 2025. Its proximity to Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) and excellent transport links make it a steal.
- Connectivity: Kurla Railway Station on the Central and Harbour lines, plus the nearby metro, ensure quick commutes.
- Amenities: Phoenix Marketcity, schools like Loreto Convent, and hospitals like CritiCare Asia serve residents.
- Lifestyle: A mix of affordable markets and modern malls offers variety.
With 1BHK rents starting at ₹20,000, Kurla is ideal for those balancing cost and convenience.
Tips for Scoring Affordable Housing in Mumbai
Finding a decent place to rent in Mumbai isn’t just about picking the right area—it’s about strategy. Here’s some practical advice to help you land a deal in 2025:
- Go suburban: Central Mumbai’s prices are brutal, but suburbs like Borivali or Navi Mumbai keep costs down.
- Team up: Sharing a flat with roommates can slash your rent in half—perfect for students or young professionals.
- Prioritize transport: Look for spots near railway stations or metro lines to save on commuting costs.
- Haggle a bit: Landlords might budge on rent, especially if the place has been empty for a while.
- Skip the middleman: Platforms like NoBroker or Magicbricks and Lets Rentz will soon in Mumbai let you deal directly with owners, dodging hefty brokerage fees.
- Stay flexible: If you’re open to tweaking your wish list—like skipping a fancy gym in the building—you’ll find more options.
Also Read - Posh areas in Mumbai
Wrapping It Up
Mumbai’s reputation as an expensive city isn’t wrong, but it’s not the whole story. Areas like Borivali, Kandivali, Ghatkopar, and Chembur prove you can live well without burning a hole in your wallet. Meanwhile, emerging spots like Airoli, Mira Road, and Panvel show how Navi Mumbai is stepping up as a budget-friendly alternative. Add in places like Malad and Kurla, and you’ve got a mix of options that cater to different needs—whether you’re after greenery, connectivity, or a bustling urban vibe.
Also Read - Top 10 Best Affordable Areas to Live in Gurgaon on Rent
By 2025, with metro lines weaving through the city and projects like the Navi Mumbai International Airport coming online, these areas will only get better. They’re not just affordable—they’re smart choices for a comfortable life in Mumbai. So, if you’re hunting for a rental that won’t drain your savings, start here. The City of Dreams might just surprise you with a home that fits both your budget and your lifestyle. Stay tuned with Lets Rentz for more information.
