Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA (1,493 Rentals)

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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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property at 6501 Donal Ave

$1,850 - $2,250

1 To 2 Bedroom Rentals

Available Now

6501 Donal Ave

El CerritoCA94530

Where to Live, Where to Work: Your Guide to Top Neighborhoods to Rent Near San Francisco's 5 Best Employers

Maximize your work-life balance in San Francisco. Discover the ideal neighborhoods for renting, from SoMa to Nob Hill, for employees of the city's 5 leading companies.

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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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San Francisco's Best Affordable Neighborhoods

Learn about San Francisco and the best places to live with original content written by our San Francisco, CA Local Expert Shannon Hilson

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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.

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El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

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Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

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.

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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.

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Local Guide To the Best Student Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent Near Colleges in San Francisco

A Local Experts guide to the Best Student Friendly Neighborhoods Near Colleges in the Bay area for affordable living. Find your perfect San Francisco Student apartment, condo, or rental home today at ApartmentHomeliving.com

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How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

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El Cerrito Overview

Part of the glorious San Francisco Bay area, El Cerrito is a scenic hot spot that is sure to appeal to many. A relatively 'new' city, this west coast locale is brimming with industry, convenience and a world of amenities at your fingertips.

What is the history of El Cerrito?

After the great earthquake of 1906, El Cerrito was flooded with refugees in need of new homes. The city was officially incorporated a few short years later in 1917, and took its namesake meaning 'little knoll'. Despite humble beginnings as a settlement to around 1500, modern El Cerrito apartments act as home close to 25,000 today.

How is the weather in El Cerrito?

Situated along the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, those residing in El Cerrito rentals can anticipate a fair share of breezy conditions. San Fran fog is commonplace, especailly in the mornings, and while this is still sunny California an apartment in El Cerrito can see its fair share of rainy and chilly weather, especially in the October-February months. 

How do I get around town?

Most living in El Cerrito apartments for rent rely on at least one private car or truck, with taxis and ride ahring options such as Lyft and Uber in high supply as well. Bicycling remains popular around the city, and bus service is widespread thanks to AC Transit. The BART rail service has several stops in and around downtown, and San Francisco Airport is a largescale flight hub.

What is the El Cerrito commute like?

Interstate 80 is the major roadway in the vicinity, with the Golden Gate Bridge and I-580 also nearby. While traffic typically moves smoothly inside the city limits, those commuting to nearby Berkeley College or the job market of greater San Fran may want to utiilize the BART system, as traffic congestion can swell during peak 9-to-5 hours on most days. San Pablo Avenue is a hub of shopping and eateries in the city.

What are the local media outlets?

The 'East Bay Times' is a popular print news source, and residents of rentals in El Cerrito can anticipate much in the way of broadcast television options, thanks to a wide range of affiliates. Radio is likewise a diverse affair, ranging from NPR talk formats to indie rock college hits, with modern pop and classic rock also found with ease.

Why live in El Cerrito, CA?

Boasting an impressive number of public parks, not to mention jaw-dropping water views and plenty in the way of shopping, restaurants and nightclubs, a El Cerrito is sure to please. Convenient to a number of area universities as well as the excitement of San Francisco proper, this California destination is an ideal spot for anyone eager to connect with a new home on the west coast.

What El Cerrito landmarks should I see?

El Cerrito Plaza is a hugely popular shopping center that has been in vogue for decades, and the Hillside Natural Area collects close to 80 acres of wild hiking trails and bird watching sites. Arhoolie Records still makes its home in the city, now a part of the Smithsonian Institute, and the old bones of the popular Playland-Not-At-The-Beach can still be scene from many an apartment in El Cerrito.

What is there to do around El Cerrito?

Take in a movie at the famed Cerrito Theater, or take a jog along the Ohone Greenway, both within easy reach of many El Cerrito rentals. Enjoy some craft cocktails with your new neighbors at Mel-O-Dee, grab a tasty burger at the Red Onion, or take to Golden Gate Fields for an exciting day or horse racing, the choices are seemingly limitless in this Cali hot spot.

Any annual festivals or El Cerrito events to know?

The WorldOne Festival isa huge annual event in the city, complete with large crowds of revelers and plenty of live music, while fans of classic theater won't want to miss the Straford Festival every August. El Cerrito High also hosts a jazz fest every fall.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

Spend a weekend exploring Alcatraz or the famous Fisherman's Warf of San Francisco, or head into wine country for a wide array of fine vintage tours, both within easy driving distance of most El Cerrito apartments for rent. Head south to the glamor of Hollywood, or simply drive the California coast and enjoy the fishing, boating and sunbathing opportunities.

Where is the best place to move in El Cerrito?

From economic one bedroom apartments complete with onsite parking and easy access to nearby universities, to roomy 4-bedroom family rentals providing gym facilities and pet-friendly policies, a world of El Cerrito apartment options awaits you. So why spend another moment without a California rental of your very own? Start your hunt today and see what the west coast has in store for you!

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El Cerrito, CA

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Getting Around El Cerrito, CA

Walk Score®

88 / 100

Very Walkable

Most errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

84 / 100

Very Bikeable

Biking is convenient for most trips

Transit Score®

57 / 100

Good Transit

Many 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 El Cerrito

How much are Studio apartments in El Cerrito?

There are currently 609 Studio Apartments in El Cerrito with rent ranges from $1,090 to $3,300 with an average price of $2,206.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom El Cerrito Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in El Cerrito ranges from $950 to $3,995 with an average monthly rent of $2,525.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in El Cerrito cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in El Cerrito range from $2,000 to $8,605. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $3,349.

How expensive are El Cerrito Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 231 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in El Cerrito on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,476 to $11,828 - averaging $3,801 for the location.

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.

Helpful Local Expert Guides

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A San Francisco Local Expert’s Guide to the Top Budget-Friendly Bay Area Neighborhoods to Rent

Written by: Shannon Hilson

If you’re anything like me, the thought of San Francisco is synonymous with concepts like creativity, character, and quirky local style.

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Local Guide To the Best Student Friendly Neighborhoods to Rent Near Colleges in San Francisco

Written by: Shannon Hilson

Naturally, going away to college or university is super exciting in and of itself. It’s the prelude to the rest of your life, not to mention an unforgettable experience all its own.

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Where to Live, Where to Work: Your Guide to Top Neighborhoods to Rent Near San Francisco's 5 Best Employers

Written by: Shannon Hilson

Deciding to move to San Francisco for work is a huge deal. San Fran is exciting and just weird enough to let you know you’re in for an amazing adventure, right from day one.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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Renting with Roommates: Realistic Expectations for Shared Lease

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Given the high costs for housing, I have found that many people are looking for a roommate to share expenses. These arrangements can increase opportunities for more desirable and larger spaces.

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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.

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How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate! 

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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.