Rock Island, IL 25 Cheap Apartments for Rent

The large Mississippi River island that the city is named after is now known as Arsenal Island. The largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the US is located on this island, so many area residents commute here for work.

Rock Island is part of the Quad Cities—a large urban area that encompasses Moline and East Moline, as well as Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa. So, no matter what you’re looking for in terms of shopping, dining and entertainment, you’re bound to find it in one of these surrounding cities.

Much of the Rock Island rental market is dominated by military. This means that if you’re looking for apartment rentals with short term lease options, then you’re in luck! Similarly, if you’re on a tight budget, you may qualify for outstanding housing at a fraction of the market rate.

Rock Island is in the process of reinventing itself. Downtown revitalization efforts have led to a lot of development along the riverfront. New galleries, restaurants, stores, and bars dot the main streets, and many of the lofts, condominiums, and townhouses for rent in this area have luxury amenities, as a private gym and clubhouse. Additionally, these buildings also offer some of the city’s best studio apartments for rent. Two bedrooms in posh downtown buildings generally range from $1,300 - $1,500.

Augustana College, located just east of the city center is a relatively safe area and has many inexpensive apartments for rent. Two bedrooms here generally range from $650 - $900.

You’ll have no trouble finding rental homes in Rock Island, as older single-family houses for rent are scattered throughout town. The farther south you go, the more suburban and newer, the rental properties will be. Neighborhoods south of 19th Avenue, including Bel Aire and Blackhawk, tend to have the best safety record in town. Two bedrooms here generally range from $700 - $900.

So, about those pet friendly apartments… Good luck finding them! Most Rock Island rentals have strict no pet policies. Locating a dog friendly apartment in town is particularly difficult since many of the city’s rentals are operated by private landlords who are convinced your pooch is going to pee on the carpet. Don’t despair. Just allow yourself plenty of time to find that one rental in a million that will welcome Fido.

So welcome to the Rock! Enjoy kickin' back in this old city on the Old Muddy. View Rock Island City Guide

Finding cheap apartments in Rock Island takes some ingenuity and effort, as well as quick action. Before you head out on your search, bring along pay stubs, bank statements, letters of recommendations from landlords or employers, and identification. The more proactive you are about your search, the easier it will be to score a deal.

Look for cheap apartments in Rock Island by regularly scouring listings and looking during slower renting seasons, like winter. You can still find a deal if you move during the summer months when apartment hunting is more competitive.

You may be able to find cheap apartments in Rock Island in neighborhoods that are located away from attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. You may need to look farther out than you would prefer, but access to highways or public transportation can get you into the heart of Rock Island.

The building you choose can also make a difference in finding a cheap apartment in Rock Island. Older buildings that need some updating are more likely to have better deals. Walk-up apartments without elevators, on-street parking and few amenities like on-site fitness centers can also signal affordable rents in Rock Island.