Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Santa Cruz‑Watsonville, a vibrant metro region along California’s scenic coastline, blends laid‑back beach culture with a thriving academic and agricultural economy. Residents enjoy easy access to iconic landmarks such as the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the bustling downtown Wharf, and the picturesque vineyards of Watsonville. The area’s mild climate, outdoor recreation options, and lively arts scene make it a coveted destination for professionals, students, and families seeking a balanced coastal lifestyle.
The local rental market reflects this desirability, offering a mix of apartments and single‑family houses across a range of sizes. Studio units typically start in the $1,800‑$2,300 bracket, while one‑bedroom apartments hover around $2,200‑$2,900. Two‑bedroom apartments commonly fall between $3,200‑$3,800, and larger three‑ and four‑plus bedroom units range from the $4,300‑$5,000 level up to premium homes exceeding $7,000. Houses provide an added premium, with studios near $1,800, one‑bedrooms around $2,950, two‑bedrooms in the $3,600‑$3,800 range, three‑bedrooms generally between $5,000‑$5,300, and spacious four‑plus bedroom homes often priced above $7,000. These rounded ranges give renters a clear sense of the market without pinpointing exact figures.
Neighborhoods such as the historic Seabright district, the bustling Downtown area, and the family‑friendly neighborhoods of Watsonville each offer distinct housing options, from charming historic apartments to modern suburban homes. Proximity to top‑rated schools, tech‑centric job hubs, and recreational trails adds to the appeal for those looking to settle in a community that balances convenience with the relaxed, ocean‑inspired vibe that defines Santa Cruz‑Watsonville.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,266 | $2,195 | $900 - $5,240 | $1,195 - $2,970 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,189 | $2,182 | $644 - $4,470 | $1,600 - $2,800 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,258 | $3,285 | $830 - $5,595 | $2,795 - $3,720 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $4,235 | $4,500 | $2,250 - $5,800 | $3,800 - $4,850 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $4,106 | $4,587 | $1,450 - $5,800 | $4,275 - $5,800 |
| House | Studio | $1,962 | $1,899 | $1,350 - $2,700 | $1,550 - $2,700 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $3,181 | $2,975 | $1,100 - $6,950 | $2,600 - $3,200 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,786 | $3,750 | $860 - $8,500 | $3,300 - $4,200 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $5,217 | $5,000 | $1,900 - $13,948 | $4,400 - $5,500 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $7,118 | $6,990 | $4,200 - $13,000 | $5,500 - $9,100 |
In the current period, the average rent in Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA was $2,180 for Studio, $2,357 for 1 Bedroom, $3,505 for 2 Bedroom, $5,104 for 3 Bedroom, and $6,260 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.