Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Merced County, nestled in the heart of California’s Central Valley, blends agricultural heritage with a growing urban vibe anchored by the University of California, Merced campus and a revitalized downtown district. The county offers a mix of historic neighborhoods, vibrant commercial corridors, and scenic natural attractions such as Lake Yosemite and the nearby San Luis Reservoir, making it appealing to families, professionals, and students alike. With a broad spectrum of housing options—from convenient studio apartments near campus to spacious single‑family homes in the suburbs—renters can find accommodations that match a variety of lifestyles and commuting needs.
The rental market reflects this diversity, with apartments ranging from studios in the $1100s to larger four‑bedroom units approaching the $1900s, while houses start near $1000 for studios and climb above $2400 for expansive family homes. Popular residential areas such as Downtown Merced, the Merced College neighborhoods, and the surrounding communities of Atwater and Planada provide easy access to shopping, dining, and public transit. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate nearby parks and trail systems, and the county’s central location offers straightforward connections to major highways for commuters traveling to the Bay Area or Sacramento. These factors combine to make Merced County a compelling choice for renters seeking affordability, convenience, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,340 | $1,372 | $950 - $1,615 | $1,195 - $1,500 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,524 | $1,585 | $840 - $1,895 | $1,400 - $1,745 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,974 | $1,985 | $1,170 - $2,550 | $1,755 - $2,399 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $1,783 | $1,827 | $1,185 - $2,295 | $1,800 - $2,295 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,206 | $1,220 | $1,050 - $1,300 | $1,100 - $1,300 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,683 | $1,625 | $1,150 - $2,500 | $1,475 - $1,800 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $2,133 | $2,100 | $1,200 - $5,000 | $1,950 - $2,250 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,504 | $2,400 | $550 - $6,500 | $2,259 - $2,600 |
In the current period, the average rent in Merced was $1,023 for Studio, $1,296 for 1 Bedroom, $1,614 for 2 Bedroom, $2,128 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,381 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.