Cheap Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA from $900 (24 Rentals)

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

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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Monterey Pines
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Monterey Pines

680 37th StRichmond, CA 94805
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2601 Center Ave
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

2601 Center Ave

2601 Center AveRichmond, CA 94804
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1176 University
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

1176 University

1176 University AveBerkeley, CA 94702
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Kona Apartments
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Kona Apartments

2645 Church LnSan Pablo, CA 94806
  • Utilities Included

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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1613 6th St
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

1613 6th St

1613 6th StBerkeley, CA 94710
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Tiki Apartments
1 to 2 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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1301 Gilman St
1 Bedroom Apartments

1301 Gilman St

1301 Gilman StAlbany, CA 94706
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411 Stannage Ave
1 to 2 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

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.

El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

Photo of Justin Habersaat - Editing Staff
Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

Cheapest Available El Cerrito Apartments for Rent

 

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. Terraces at Nevin in the Cortez neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,331. Here is today’s list of the most affordable El Cerrito apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
HeliosShared Double1BR,1BA$950
Terraces at NevinStudio Type AStudio,1BA$1,331
BoscoUnit 5015BR,3BA$1,450
6500 Donal Ave1BR/1.0BA1BR,1BA$1,850
Villa Alvarado1 Bed 1 Baths1BR,1BA$1,995

Best Value Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA

As of January 07, 2026 the best value apartment in the El Cerrito area is the $2.95 price per square foot 3 BR x 2 BA Model at 1201 Liberty Apartments in the in the Midtown neighborhood starting from $3,250. The second greatest value El Cerrito apartment is the 3421 Belmont Ave Model at 3421 Belmont Ave, Unit Upper Level 2B1B starting at $2,650 with a $3.12 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.
1201 Liberty Apartments3 BR x 2 BA3BR,2BA$2.95
3421 Belmont Ave, Unit Upper Level 2B1B3421 Belmont Ave2BR,1BA$3.12
1401 Liberty St2 bedroom2BR,1BA$2.94
2505 Mira Vista Dr, Unit 22505 Mira Vista Dr1BR,1BA$2.00
Casa del Sol2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$2.75
Heritage Grove Apartments2x12BR,1BA$2.93
Civic Plaza ApartmentsPlan C1BR,1BA$3.23
3319 Nevin Ave, Unit D3319 Nevin Ave2BR,1BA$3.13
1751 Liberty St, Unit 1061751 Liberty St1BR,1BA$2.60
Terraces at NevinStudio Type AStudio ,1BA$3.25

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.

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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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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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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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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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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!

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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 Terraces at Nevin listed at $1,331.

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 $2,095 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 $1,476.

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.

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

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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How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips

Written by: Justin Habersaat

Getting your apartment ready for the holidays can be exciting but sometimes challenging in a smaller space. Here are some modern tips to keep things festive, safe, and inviting this season.

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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!