Cheap Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA from $900 (25 Rentals)

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Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in El Cerrito.

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.

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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Monterey Pines
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Monterey Pines

680 37th StRichmond, CA 94805
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2601 Center Ave
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

2601 Center Ave

2601 Center AveRichmond, CA 94804
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1176 University
Studio Apartments

1176 University

1176 University AveBerkeley, CA 94702

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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1613 6th St
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

1613 6th St

1613 6th StBerkeley, CA 94710
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Tiki Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Tiki Apartments

2688 Rollingwood DrSan Pablo, CA 94806
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1951 Chestnut St
Studio Apartments

1951 Chestnut St

1951 Chestnut StBerkeley, CA 94702
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Kona Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Kona Apartments

2645 Church LnSan Pablo, CA 94806
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1301 Gilman St
1 Bedroom Apartments

1301 Gilman St

1301 Gilman StAlbany, CA 94706
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411 Stannage Ave
1 Bedroom Apartments

411 Stannage Ave

411 Stannage AveAlbany, CA 94706
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1213 San Pablo Ave
1 Bedroom Apartments

1213 San Pablo Ave

1213 San Pablo AveAlbany, CA 94706
  • Utilities Included

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.

El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

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Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

Cheapest Available El Cerrito Apartments for Rent and Nearby

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in El Cerrito, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Helios in the Downtown Berkeley neighborhood priced from $950. Bosco in the Downtown Berkeley neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 5 Beds apartment currently listed from $1,408. Here is today’s list of the most affordable El Cerrito apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
HeliosShared Double1BR,1BA$950
BoscoUnit 4015BR,3BA$1,408
1176 University0BR/1.0BAStudio,1BA$1,495
Casa del Sol2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$1,995
Heritage Grove Apartments1x11BR,1BA$2,095

Best Value Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA and Nearby

As of July 08, 2025 the best value apartment in the El Cerrito area is the $1.38 price per square foot 3410 San Pablo Dam Rd Model at 3410 San Pablo Dam Rd, Unit #3414 in the in the Hilltop neighborhood starting from $2,750. The second greatest value El Cerrito apartment is the 3 BR x 1 BA Model at 1201 Liberty Apartments starting at $2,850 with a $2.85 price per square foot in the Midtown neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for El Cerrito apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
3410 San Pablo Dam Rd, Unit #34143410 San Pablo Dam Rd3BR,1BA$1.38
1201 Liberty Apartments3 BR x 1 BA3BR,1BA$2.85
Terraces at Nevin2 Bedroom Type A2BR,1BA$2.39
5533 Madison Ave, Unit #35533 Madison Ave1BR,1BA$1.89
3340 Belmont Ave, Unit A3340 Belmont Ave2BR,1BA$2.76
1401 Liberty St2 bedroom2BR,1BA$2.82
1668 Shattuck Ave, Unit 21668 Shattuck Ave2BR,1BA$3.01
Casa del Sol2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$2.61
1176 University0BR/1.0BAStudio ,1BA$1.99
847 S 47th St, Unit A847 S 47th St1BR,1BA$3.09

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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.

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.

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore El Cerrito, CA Rentals by Map

View MapEl Cerrito, CA Apartments MapView MapEl Cerrito, CA Rental Homes Map

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

Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap El Cerrito Apartments

What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in El Cerrito?

Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in El Cerrito is at 1176 University listed at $1,495.

How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom El Cerrito Apartment?

The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom El Cerrito Apartment is $950 at Helios.

What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom El Cerrito Apartment for rent?

Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in El Cerrito is starting from $1,995 at Casa del Sol.

What is the most affordable El Cerrito Three Bedroom Apartment?

The best deal on a cheap El Cerrito Three Bedroom Apartment rental is at Bosco and starts from $1,475.

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.

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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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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.

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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Written by: Marie Brown

You’ve scrolled through countless listings, walked through a blur of rentals, and finally found what feels like the one. The pictures? Fantastic. The neighborhood seems just right.

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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.