Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 11/14/2025
Santa Cruz blends vibrant coastal living with a dynamic cultural scene, making it a sought‑after destination for renters of all ages. From the iconic Beach Boardwalk and historic downtown to the nearby UC Santa Cruz campus and expansive redwood parks, the city offers a rich mix of recreational, educational, and entertainment options. This appealing lifestyle fuels a strong rental market where both modern apartments and classic single‑family houses provide comfortable homes for students, young professionals, and growing families alike.
The rental price landscape reflects the city’s diverse housing stock. Studio apartments and one‑bedroom units typically fall within the $2,500‑$2,600 range, while two‑bedroom apartments trend toward the $3,500 bracket and larger three‑bedroom units approach the $4,500 level. For houses, one‑bedroom rentals start around $2,900, two‑bedroom homes hover near $3,900, and three‑bedroom houses commonly sit in the $5,600 range, with premium properties and larger families often seeing rates above $7,800. This variety ensures that renters can find options that match both their space needs and budget expectations.
Neighborhoods such as Downtown, Seabright, the Westside, and College Park each bring a distinct flavor to the rental experience. Downtown offers walkable streets, boutique shopping, and lively dining, while Seabright’s beachfront vibe attracts those who love ocean views and easy surf access. The Westside provides quieter, family‑friendly streets with excellent schools, and College Park’s proximity to campus makes it ideal for academic life. With convenient public transit, bike paths, and a welcoming community, Santa Cruz continues to be a premier coastal city for renters seeking a blend of convenience, culture, and natural beauty.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,733 | $2,570 | $1,495 - $5,240 | $2,150 - $3,150 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,554 | $2,650 | $750 - $4,470 | $2,000 - $3,036 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,655 | $3,656 | $830 - $6,175 | $2,975 - $4,717 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $4,800 | $4,625 | $3,000 - $6,500 | $4,250 - $5,800 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,958 | $3,100 | $1,790 - $3,700 | $2,600 - $3,250 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,944 | $3,894 | $1,100 - $7,000 | $3,500 - $4,350 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $5,717 | $5,450 | $2,655 - $13,948 | $4,900 - $6,250 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $8,147 | $7,925 | $5,200 - $15,000 | $7,000 - $9,000 |
In the current period, the average rent in Santa Cruz was $2,636 for Studio, $2,619 for 1 Bedroom, $3,792 for 2 Bedroom, $5,657 for 3 Bedroom, and $7,802 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.