Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Santa Maria’s rental market offers a diverse mix of apartments and single‑family homes, catering to everything from young professionals to growing families. Apartment studios are commonly found in the $1,600s, while one‑bedroom units typically sit in the $2,000 range, making downtown and the historic West Side attractive for renters seeking convenient urban living. Larger floor plans, such as two‑ and three‑bedroom apartments, trend toward the $2,400s and $3,200s respectively, providing ample space for commuters who appreciate quick access to the Santa Maria Valley’s renowned wineries and the nearby Pacific Coast. The city’s well‑connected highways and a vibrant arts scene further enhance its appeal as a lively yet affordable place to call home.
For those preferring a house, rental rates follow a similarly balanced pattern. One‑bedroom homes are generally listed in the $1,900s, while two‑bedroom houses often command the $2,500 range, appealing to small families and couples looking for extra yard space near top‑rated schools and community parks. Larger homes with three or more bedrooms typically fall in the $3,200s, with premium four‑plus‑bedroom properties reaching the $3,800s, especially in sought‑after neighborhoods like Walnut Grove and the West Valley, where residents enjoy proximity to local golf courses, the historic Santa Maria Museum of Flight, and scenic riverfront trails. Overall, the city’s blend of affordable pricing, varied housing options, and rich local amenities makes Santa Maria a compelling destination for renters across California.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,632 | $1,765 | $950 - $1,945 | $1,350 - $1,945 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,044 | $2,100 | $700 - $2,795 | $1,882 - $2,295 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,421 | $2,486 | $800 - $2,824 | $2,290 - $2,700 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,162 | $3,195 | $2,500 - $3,629 | $2,950 - $3,437 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,925 | $1,900 | $1,595 - $2,100 | $1,895 - $2,000 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $2,407 | $2,447 | $890 - $3,100 | $2,295 - $2,800 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $3,226 | $3,200 | $2,600 - $4,000 | $2,995 - $3,400 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $3,834 | $3,700 | $2,950 - $4,900 | $3,600 - $4,000 |
In the current period, the average rent in Santa Maria was $1,702 for Studio, $2,025 for 1 Bedroom, $2,412 for 2 Bedroom, $3,205 for 3 Bedroom, and $3,777 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.