close
View Me
Rent Specials
from $1,620Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Village at Town Center
6410 Schmidt LnEl Cerrito, CA 94530
Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA (1,489 Rentals)
close
View Me
Rent Specials
from $2,650Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Metro 510
510-512 El Cerrito PlzEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,006Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available May 31
Mayfair Station
11600 San Pablo AveEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,2502 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
1201 Liberty Apartments
1201 Liberty StEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,1751 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Civic Plaza Apartments
10944 San Pablo AveEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,4002 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
1401 Liberty St
1401 Liberty StEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,386Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Cerrito Vista Apartments
10963 San Pablo AveEl Cerrito, CA 94530
close
View Me
from $2,5952 Bedroom Apartment Available Now
3301 Santa Clara Ave, Unit 1
3301 Santa Clara AveEl Cerrito, CA 94530
1419-1421 Elm St
El CerritoCA94530
close
View Me
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.
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
Navigating 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.
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
Know Your Rights - How Discrimination Laws Impact Landlords and Tenants
Read our practical guide to landlord and tenant rights. Understand protected classes, reasonable accommodations, and legal exceptions to prevent housing discrimination.
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
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.
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
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
El Cerrito, CA Local Guide
Mezue trail in the distance by David Abercrombie is licensed under CC BY 2.0
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in El Cerrito?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Cerrito Studio Apartments | $2,286 | $1,178 | $4,440 |
| El Cerrito 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,416 | $1,100 | $4,012 |
| El Cerrito 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,397 | $1,750 | $5,248 |
| El Cerrito 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,371 | $2,750 | $6,500 |
| El Cerrito 4 Bedroom Apartments | $3,194 | $3,141 | $3,300 |
Browse Top Apartments in El Cerrito
Explore El Cerrito
El Cerrito, CA Local Guide
Written By:
Justin HabersaatEditing Staff
- El Cerrito Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
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 El Cerrito area?
If you’re an expert on all things El Cerrito, tell us what you love (and don't) by rating it and writing a review.
Write a Review
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!
Best Local Schools in El Cerrito, CA
Madera Elementary
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Public School - Grades K-6 (465)
7 out of 10
Fred T. Korematsu Middle
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Public School - Grades 7-8 (681)
4 out of 10
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore El Cerrito, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in El Cerrito, CA
El Cerrito, CA Apartments MapEl Cerrito, CA Rental Homes MapGetting Around El Cerrito, CA
Walk Score®
88 / 100
Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
83 / 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 121 Studio Apartments in El Cerrito with rent ranges from $1,178 to $4,440 with an average price of $2,286.
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 $1,100 to $4,012 with an average monthly rent of $2,416.
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 $1,750 to $5,248. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $3,397.
How expensive are El Cerrito Three Bedroom Apartments?
There are currently 204 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in El Cerrito on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $2,750 to $6,500 - averaging $4,371 for the location.
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.
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.
Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting
Written by: Lauren Harrington
Renting an apartment or house isn’t just about looking through online ads, choosing a few apartments or homes you want to tour, filling out an application, and putting down a deposit. Those things are all necessary and important.
The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters
Written by: Bobbi Jackson
If you’re looking to relocate right now, a popular solution that may best fit your current rental needs is a short-term lease.
Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters
Written by: Sandy Baker
Making the decision to rent is exciting and terrifying at the same time. For many people, there are a lot of unknowns.