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$1,300 - $2,800Studio 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 (84 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in Costa Mesa.
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$1,875 - $3,500Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Costa Mirage
393 Hamilton StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$1,900 - $3,2001 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Ponderosa Mobile Estates
1991 Newport BlvdCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$1,931 - $2,961Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Westlake Village
955 W 19th StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$1,965 - $3,840Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
AVA Newport
1765-1765 Santa Ana AveCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$1,995 - $3,200Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Harbor Village Apartments
2500 Merrimac WayCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$1,995 - $3,0951 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Casa Victoria Apartments
525 Victoria StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$1,999 - $3,903Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Harbor at Mesa Verde
2700 Peterson PlCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$2,050 - $3,500Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Newport Village Apartments
635 W Baker StCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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.
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$2,089 - $4,266Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
27 Seventy Five Mesa Verde
2775 Mesa Verde Dr ECosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$2,105 - $3,2151 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
eaves South Coast
555 Paularino AveCosta Mesa, CA 92626
943 Sunset Dr
Costa MesaCA92627
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$2,151 - $2,8811 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Pacific Villas
533 W Wilson StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$2,155 - $2,5991 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Missions at Back Bay
1330 SE Bristol StCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$2,1951 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Nov 21
Lido Apartments - 241 Avocado St
241 Avocado StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$2,1951 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
1887 Monrovia
1887 Monrovia AveCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$2,199 - $3,0491 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
AtWater Cove
425 Merrimac WayCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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.
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$2,200 - $2,9501 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Pinecreek Apartments
2300 Fairview RdCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$2,240 - $3,2901 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Grand Costa Mesa
2855 Pinecreek DrCosta Mesa, CA 92626
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$2,250 - $3,080Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Nov 1
The Parsons
2000 Parsons StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$2,295 - $3,3001 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Westbay Apartments
825 Center StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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$2,300 - $2,4001 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Hamilton Apartments
780-790 Hamilton StCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
Newport Senior Village Apartments
2080 Newport BlvdCosta Mesa, CA 92627
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.
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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.
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Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs
Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.
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 | $2,553 | $1,300 | $3,700 |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,034 | $1,900 | $7,760 |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,791 | $2,320 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 3 Bedroom Apartments | $5,656 | $3,025 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap Costa Mesa 4 Bedroom Apartments | $6,847 | $5,195 | $8,500 |
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: 10/23/2025Current apartment rentals in the Costa Mesa, CA area range in price from $1,300 to $12,500 with an overall median price of $9,106. The three Costa Mesa neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Bungalows at Bay Street at $1,995, Orange County Airport at $2,050, and College Park at $1,300. Here is today’s list of the top 8 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Costa Mesa Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bungalows at Bay Street | $3,551 | $1,995 | 63 |
| Orange County Airport | $4,300 | $2,050 | 577 |
| College Park | $10,000 | $1,300 | 69 |
| Cornerstone | $10,000 | $1,300 | 101 |
| Downtown Costa Mesa | $10,000 | $1,700 | 44 |
| Westside Costa Mesa | $10,000 | $1,300 | 364 |
| East Side Costa Mesa | $12,500 | $1,300 | 172 |
| Newport Heights | $12,500 | $10,000 | 1 |
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 $1,600. Costa Mirage in the Cornerstone neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,875. 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 XS | Studio,1BA | $1,600 |
| Costa Mirage | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,875 |
| AVA Newport | S1 | Studio,1BA | $1,965 |
| Harbor Village Apartments | Plan A | Studio,1BA | $1,995 |
| Casa Victoria Apartments | 1BR/1BA | 1BR,1BA | $1,995 |
| Harbor at Mesa Verde | Plan E1B | Studio,1BA | $1,999 |
| Cherry Creek Apartments | Plan 2 | 1BR,1BA | $2,025 |
| Newport Village Apartments | Junior 1 Bedroom | Studio,1BA | $2,050 |
| Pacifica Apartments | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Upstairs | 1BR,1BA | $2,075 |
| 27 Seventy Five Mesa Verde | E1-R | Studio,1BA | $2,089 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Costa Mesa, CA
As of October 24, 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 3 Bedroom Model at Fairway Villas Apartment Homes starting at $3,995 with a $2.85 price per square foot in the Avenue One 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 |
| Fairway Villas Apartment Homes | 3 Bedroom | 3BR,2BA | $2.85 |
| Plaza Townhomes | 2+1 | 2BR,1BA | $2.71 |
| Ponderosa Mobile Estates | 2 Bedroom 2 Bath | 2BR,2BA | $2.56 |
| Huntington Vista | Barcelona | 2BR,2BA | $2.54 |
| Valley Park | 2 Bed 1.5 Bath | 2BR,1.5BA | $2.49 |
| Sea Environment Apartments | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $2.56 |
| 3400 South Main Street | One Bedroom One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $2.79 |
| Pacifica Apartments | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath - Upstairs | 1BR,1BA | $2.73 |
| Casa Victoria Apartments | 1 B With Patio | 1BR,1BA | $2.83 |
Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know
From the lounge to the laundry room, understand your rights and responsibilities in shared apartment spaces. Get tips on pet rules, noise, and security.
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Don't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.
Read ArticleThe 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.
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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.
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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 #79
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 $2,089.
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 $9,106.
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 148 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 $509 which is $8,597 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.
Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Back in the day when I rented one of my first apartments, the property didn’t even have laundry in the building. Now, rental properties are often competing against each other to provide the best amenities.
How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Everything is a negotiation in real estate!
The Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist: A Guide for Renters
Written by: Trey Huguley
The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in.
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.