close
View Me
Rent Specials
$1,300 - $2,650Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Apex Apartments
530 W Wilson StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
Cheap Apartments for Rent in Costa Mesa, CA from $1,000 (63 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in Costa Mesa.
close
View Me
$1,875 - $3,500Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Costa Mirage
393 Hamilton StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
$1,900 - $3,0251 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Ponderosa Mobile Estates
1991 Newport BlvdCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
$1,931 - $2,961Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Sep 12
Westlake Village
955 W 19th StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
Rent Specials
$1,950 - $2,400Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Hamilton Apartments
780-790 Hamilton StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
$1,995 - $3,200Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Harbor Village Apartments
2500 Merrimac WayCosta Mesa, CA 92626
close
View Me
$1,995 - $3,0951 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Casa Victoria Apartments
525 Victoria StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
$2,000 - $3,500Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Newport Village Apartments
635 W Baker StCosta Mesa, CA 92626
close
View Me
Rent Specials
$2,081 - $4,140Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Harbor at Mesa Verde
2700 Peterson PlCosta Mesa, CA 92626
close
View Me
Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.
close
View Me
$2,100 - $2,8501 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Pinecreek Apartments
2300 Fairview RdCosta Mesa, CA 92626
close
View Me
close
View Me
$2,151 - $2,8811 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Pacific Villas
533 W Wilson StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
$2,170 - $3,125Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Village at South Coast
845 Paularino AveCosta Mesa, CA 92626
close
View Me
Rent Specials
$2,195 - $3,1001 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Westbay Apartments
825 Center StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
close
View Me
$2,1951 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
1887 Monrovia
1887 Monrovia AveCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
close
View Me
Rent Specials
$2,200 - $4,205Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
AVA Newport
1765-1765 Santa Ana AveCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls
When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
Newport Senior Village Apartments
2080 Newport BlvdCosta Mesa, CA 92627
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro
Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting
Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
close
View Me
$1,4991 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
21372 Brookhurst St
21372 Brookhurst StHuntington Beach, CA 92646
The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour
Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.
close
View Me
$1,5991 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
21372 Brookhurst St
21372 Brookhurst StHuntington Beach, CA 92646
close
View Me
Rent Specials
$1,808 - $3,207Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Eight 80 Newport Beach
880 Irvine AveNewport Beach, CA 92663
close
View Me
$1,975Studio Apartment Available Now
10031 San Miguel Ct, Unit Chateau Blanc
10031 San Miguel CtFountain Valley, CA 92708
Costa Mesa, CA Local Guide
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Costa Mesa?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap Costa Mesa Studio Apartments | $2,624 | $1,300 | $4,755 |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,206 | $1,499 | $9,765 |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,952 | $2,320 | $9,655 |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 3 Bedroom Apartments | $6,173 | $3,025 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 4 Bedroom Apartments | $7,395 | $7,395 | $7,395 |
Browse Top Apartments in Costa Mesa
See all Apartments in Costa MesaExplore Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa, CA Local Guide
Written By:
Staff Writer Local Guide Expert
- Costa Mesa Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Costa Mesa, CA
Pricing Updated: 09/07/2025Current apartment rentals in the Costa Mesa, CA area range in price from $1,300 to $11,060 with an overall median price of $8,292. The three Costa Mesa neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Bungalows at Bay Street at $1,995, Orange County Airport at $2,000, and College Park at $1,300. Here is today’s list of the top 7 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Costa Mesa Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bungalows at Bay Street | $3,447 | $1,995 | 36 |
| Orange County Airport | $4,601 | $2,000 | 491 |
| College Park | $10,000 | $1,300 | 41 |
| Cornerstone | $10,000 | $1,300 | 69 |
| Downtown Costa Mesa | $10,000 | $1,808 | 51 |
| East Side Costa Mesa | $10,000 | $1,300 | 131 |
| Westside Costa Mesa | $10,000 | $1,300 | 303 |
Cheapest Available Costa Mesa Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in Costa Mesa, CA is a Studio unit found at Apex Apartments in the Cornerstone neighborhood priced from $1,300. Eight 80 Newport Beach in the Upper Newport Bay neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,808. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Costa Mesa apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Apartments | Studio XXS | Studio,1BA | $1,300 |
| Eight 80 Newport Beach | Balboa (E1A-N) | Studio,1BA | $1,808 |
| Costa Mirage | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,875 |
| The Hamilton Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,950 |
| Casa Victoria Apartments | 1BR/1BA | 1BR,1BA | $1,995 |
| Harbor Village Apartments | Plan A | Studio,1BA | $1,995 |
| Newport Village Apartments | Junior 1 Bedroom | Studio,1BA | $2,000 |
| Harbor at Mesa Verde | Plan E1B | Studio,1BA | $2,081 |
| Monte Sereno Apartments | 1b/1b | 1BR,1BA | $2,095 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Costa Mesa, CA
As of September 07, 2025 the best value apartment in the Costa Mesa area is the $2.64 price per square foot 4150 Patrice Rd Model at 4150 Patrice Rd, Unit Patrice Road in the in the Newport Heights neighborhood starting from $6,995. The second greatest value Costa Mesa apartment is the Picasso Model at Pinnacle at MacArthur Place starting at $3,129 with a $2.37 price per square foot in the Valley Adams neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Costa Mesa apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4150 Patrice Rd, Unit Patrice Road | 4150 Patrice Rd | 5BR,3BA | $2.64 |
| Pinnacle at MacArthur Place | Picasso | 2BR,2BA | $2.37 |
| Plaza Townhomes | 2+1 | 2BR,1BA | $2.71 |
| Huntington Vista | Andorra | 2BR,2BA | $2.56 |
| Newport Villa Apartments | 2 Bedroom | 2BR,2BA | $2.74 |
| Valley Park | 2 Bed 1.5 Bath | 2BR,1.5BA | $2.67 |
| Missions at Back Bay | 2 Bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $2.78 |
| The Monrovia Apartment Homes | 2 Bed 1 Bath | 2BR,1BA | $2.66 |
| Sea Environment Apartments | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $2.56 |
| 3400 South Main Street | One Bedroom One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $2.79 |
Quick Rent Budget Calculator
How much rent can you afford?
The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.
Let everyone know!
Do you know the Costa Mesa area?
If you’re an expert on all things Costa Mesa, tell us what you love (and don't) by rating it and writing a review.
Write a Review
Costa Mesa Overview
Costa Mesa is the heartbeat of Orange County in many ways, just an arm's stretch to first-class shopping, dining, colleges and beaches, as well as minutes from renowned cultural arts venues and hundreds of major employers. Apartment living in Costa Mesa means quick and easy freeway access to the entire SoCal lifestyle!
Why live in Costa Mesa, CA?
Costa Mesa apartments put you right in the center of the OC, within about 15 minutes of everything – rather than 30 minutes or more. Exits off the 405 give direct access to the world-famous coastlines of Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach and Newport Beach for surfing, bonfires, rollerblading and pier fishing. Costa Mesa itself has 28 parks and two municipal golf courses, so you can easily hop a bus for some local outdoor fun. Shopping is a major thing, with more than 250 boutiques and restaurants at South Coast Plaza, and some interesting indie shops at The Lab, The Camp and the SoCo Collection.
Pet Friendly LifestyleCosta Mesa, CA
Ranked #88
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
2.5Pet Friendly
Best Local Schools in Costa Mesa, CA
Charles W. Tewinkle Middle
Newport-Mesa Unified School District
Public School - Grades 7-8 (506)
7 out of 10
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore Costa Mesa, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in Costa Mesa, CA
Getting Around Costa Mesa, CA
Walk Score®
73 / 100
Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
65 / 100
Bikeable
Some bike infrastructure
Transit Score®
38 / 100
Some Transit
A few nearby public transportation options
What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?
- Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
- Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
- Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Costa Mesa Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in Costa Mesa?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in Costa Mesa is under $2,095.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in Costa Mesa?
The cheapest apartment in Costa Mesa is Casa Victoria Apartments which is listed at $1,995, while the average apartment in Costa Mesa costs $8,292.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in Costa Mesa?
Student, low-income, and by-the-bed apartments are typically the cheapest rentals in most cities, though they require qualifying criteria to rent. There are 160 regular apartments in Costa Mesa that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.
How do the prices of cheap apartments compare to the average apartment in Costa Mesa?
Cheap apartments in Costa Mesa have an average cost of $529 which is $7,763 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in Costa Mesa.
Expert Rental Resources
Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips
The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.
Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
For many people, obstacles can arise during the rental application process for a variety of issues.
The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Hard truth. Moving is never easy. I’ve done it all – from local moves to cross-country relocations From packing to unpacking the last box, I have found moving to be an exhausting, expensive and stressful experience every time.
Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Throughout the day, think about all the times that you have to pay for something. So many of us reach automatically for a credit card or even our phone for a quick payment.
Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls
Written by: Cheryl Bowman
A fantastic way to save money and enjoy a built-in community is to share an apartment. However, a bad roommate situation can turn your dream rental into a nightmare.