
Cheap Homes for Rent in the Downtown Costa Mesa Neighborhood of Costa Mesa, CA from $1,300 (4 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in the Downtown Costa Mesa area of Costa Mesa.


279 E 20th St
Rent According to Income: A Look at Income-Restricted Rentals
Find income-restricted rentals and housing subsidies. Explore government programs designed to help low-income families secure stable, affordable housing.

1978 Maple Ave

200 McNeil Ln, Unit 215
Renters Insurance 101: What It Is, What It Covers, and Why You Need It
From theft to fire to water damage, the unexpected can happen to any renter. Discover why renters insurance is one of the smartest and most affordable investments you can make as a tenant.
Downtown Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent a home in Downtown Costa Mesa?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Costa Mesa 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,114 | $3,300 | $5,250 |
| Downtown Costa Mesa 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $7,497 | $5,995 | $8,999 |
| Downtown Costa Mesa 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $12,000 | $9,000 | $10,000+ |
Browse Homes for Rent in this Neighborhood
There are currently 4 rentals with your search options within a 2 mile radius of the Downtown Costa Mesa Neighborhood of Costa Mesa, CA.
Explore Costa Mesa
Downtown Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa, CA Local Guide
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Best Value Homes for Rent in Downtown Costa Mesa, CA
As of September 19, 2026 the best value rental home in the Downtown Costa Mesa area is the $3.38 price per square foot 3222 Clay St Model at 3222 Clay St in the Balboa Island neighborhood starting from $8,999. The second greatest value Downtown Costa Mesa rental home is the 273 Cecil Pl Model at 273 Cecil Pl in the Cornerstone neighborhood starting at $9,000 with a $4.50 price per square foot. Here is today’s list of the best values for Downtown Costa Mesa homes based on price per square foot:
| Home Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3222 Clay St | 3222 Clay St | 3BR, 3BA | $3.38 |
| 273 Cecil Pl | 273 Cecil Pl | 4BR, 3BA | $4.50 |
| 870 W 19th St | 870 W 19th St | 1BR, 1BA | $2.60 |
| 200 McNeil Ln | 200 McNeil Ln | Studio, 1BA | $5.25 |
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 ArticleNavigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters
Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.
Read ArticleReal Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University
From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.
Read ArticleQuick 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.
Pet Friendly LifestyleDowntown Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa, CA
Ranked #5
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
4.0Pet Friendly
Best Local Schools in Downtown Costa Mesa, Costa Mesa, CA
Newport Heights Elementary
Newport Harbor High School
Horace Ensign Intermediate
School data provided by Great Schools
Frequently Asked Questions about Downtown Costa Mesa
What type of rentals are currently available in Downtown Costa Mesa?
There are currently 647 Apartments for Rent in Downtown Costa Mesa, CA with pricing that ranges from $1,050 to $5,700. There are also 20 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Downtown Costa Mesa ranging from $1,300 to $15,000.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Downtown Costa Mesa?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Downtown Costa Mesa ranges from $1,300 to $15,000 with an average monthly rent of $5,616.
Expert Rental Resources
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.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

Rent According to Income: A Look at Income-Restricted Rentals
Written by: Robin Stewart
The idea of affordable housing can be subjective. Every individual is in a different place financially and vocationally. What one may easily afford could be a struggle for someone else.

How Commercial-to-Residential Property Conversions Help the Housing Crisis
Written by: Robin Stewart
Many housing markets throughout America share a common complaint: a lack of affordable rental properties.

Exploring Rental Options: Apartments, Townhomes, and Lofts - Oh My!
Written by: Robin Stewart
Where do you see yourself? When you think of home, sweet home, are you in a 3/2 apartment? Dreaming of a tall townhome? Maybe an industrial loft heavy on cool vibes is on your visioning board.

Practical Tips for Renters: How to Identify a Great Rental and Avoid Red Flags
Written by: Robin Stewart
Renters want to find a great apartment, the right place for them, one that checks all the boxes of location, rental cost, amenities, safety, and more.