Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Rancho Santa Margarita blends suburban charm with easy access to Southern California’s natural attractions, making it a sought‑after destination for renters seeking both convenience and lifestyle. Nestled near the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, residents enjoy proximity to O’Neill Regional Park, the scenic Santa Margarita River, and a vibrant town center featuring boutique shops, cafés, and community events. Highly rated schools, well‑maintained parks, and a network of bike trails further enhance the family‑friendly atmosphere that defines this master‑planned city.
The rental market here offers a balanced mix of apartments and single‑family homes, catering to a wide range of preferences. One‑bedroom apartments typically rent in the $2,400 range, while two‑bedroom units average around $3,000. Larger three‑bedroom apartments trend toward the mid $3,800‑$4,000 bracket. For those preferring a house, two‑bedroom homes command roughly $3,400‑$3,600, and three‑bedroom homes hover near $4,400. Premium properties with four or more bedrooms command premium rates, generally falling in the $5,500‑$5,900 spectrum. These figures reflect a market that balances affordability with the high quality of life Rancho Santa Margarita consistently delivers.
Neighborhoods such as Los Rios, The Ranch, and San Clemente Hills each bring their own character, from spacious lots and mature landscaping to contemporary townhomes and easy access to commuter routes like the 91 Freeway. Whether you’re a young professional drawn to the town‑center vibrancy, a growing family valuing top‑rated schools, or a retiree seeking peaceful surroundings near outdoor recreation, Rancho Santa Margarita provides diverse housing options that align with a dynamic, upscale Southern California lifestyle.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,423 | $2,400 | $2,135 - $2,850 | $2,305 - $2,530 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,947 | $2,977 | $1,650 - $3,500 | $2,825 - $3,084 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,950 | $3,825 | $3,693 - $4,275 | $3,750 - $4,255 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,432 | $3,537 | $2,500 - $4,000 | $3,200 - $3,800 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $4,390 | $4,450 | $3,750 - $5,200 | $4,100 - $4,650 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $5,876 | $5,500 | $4,500 - $10,500 | $5,000 - $6,250 |
In the current period, the average rent in Rancho Santa Margarita was
$2,417 for 1 Bedroom,
$3,068 for 2 Bedroom,
$4,318 for 3 Bedroom, and
$5,532 for 4+ Bedroom.
Note: This analysis includes only bedroom types with sufficient data.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.