Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
San Mateo County’s rental market offers a diverse mix of apartments and single‑family homes, catering to professionals, families, and students drawn to the county’s vibrant coastal lifestyle and its proximity to Silicon Valley. From the bustling downtown of San Mateo and the waterfront parks of Foster City to the historic charm of Belmont and the tech‑centric hubs of Redwood City, renters enjoy a variety of neighborhoods each with distinct character. Convenient access to major highways, Caltrain stations, and the scenic Bay Trail makes commuting and recreation equally easy, while cultural attractions such as Coyote Point’s museum and the San Mateo County History Museum add to the area’s appeal.
Rental pricing reflects the breadth of housing options. Studio apartments typically sit in the $2,500 range, while one‑bedroom units trend toward the $2,700‑$2,800 bracket. Two‑bedroom apartments and houses are commonly found near the $4,000 mark, and three‑bedroom homes often command rents in the $5,000‑$5,500 spectrum. Larger units, whether spacious apartments or full‑size houses, frequently range from $7,500 to $8,000, underscoring the premium placed on extensive living space. These figures illustrate a balanced market where both compact living and expansive family homes are readily available, supported by the county’s strong employment base, excellent schools, and abundant amenities. Whether you’re seeking a modern high‑rise apartment near the tech corridors or a quiet suburban house close to top‑rated schools, San Mateo County provides a welcoming environment for a wide range of rental needs.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,525 | $2,475 | $715 - $4,012 | $2,065 - $3,046 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,833 | $2,824 | $710 - $4,984 | $2,400 - $3,533 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,810 | $3,794 | $1,015 - $9,250 | $3,160 - $4,625 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $4,739 | $4,550 | $3,250 - $6,685 | $3,700 - $5,699 |
| House | Studio | $2,080 | $1,787 | $1,750 - $2,995 | $1,780 - $2,995 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,358 | $2,400 | $1,200 - $4,250 | $1,600 - $2,900 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,991 | $3,950 | $1,400 - $8,900 | $3,200 - $4,600 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $5,354 | $5,000 | $470 - $9,000 | $4,499 - $6,200 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $7,700 | $6,500 | $1,600 - $20,000 | $5,800 - $8,500 |
In the current period, the average rent in San Mateo was $2,481 for Studio, $2,749 for 1 Bedroom, $3,858 for 2 Bedroom, $5,251 for 3 Bedroom, and $7,190 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.