Cheap Homes for Rent in El Cerrito, CA from $1,000 (22 Rentals)

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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.

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.

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.

El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

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. Bosco in the Downtown Berkeley neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,090. Here is today’s list of the most affordable El Cerrito apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
HeliosShared Double1BR,1BA$950
BoscoStudio - 241 sqftStudio,1BA$1,090
Terraces at NevinSeniors Studio Type AStudio,1BA$1,508
6500 Donal Ave1BR/1.0BA1BR,1BA$1,850
Casa del Sol2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$1,875

Best Value Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA

As of November 14, 2025 the best value apartment in the El Cerrito area is the $2.85 price per square foot 3 BR x 1 BA Model at 1201 Liberty Apartments in the in the Midtown neighborhood starting from $2,850. The second greatest value El Cerrito apartment is the 1538 Arch St Model at 1538 Arch St, Unit 1542 starting at $3,600 with a $3.60 price per square foot in the Downtown Berkeley 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 1 BA3BR,1BA$2.85
1538 Arch St, Unit 15421538 Arch St3BR,1BA$3.60
1401 Liberty St2 bedroom2BR,1BA$2.82
Casa del Sol2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$2.46
302 S 26th St, Unit 306302 S 26th St2BR,1BA$3.19
830 Lexington Ave, Unit 830 Lexington830 Lexington Ave2BR,1BA$3.13
Villa Alvarado2 Bed 1 Ba, 2nd Flr2BR,1BA$3.39
836 Adams St, Unit B836 Adams St2BR,1BA$3.56
Civic Plaza ApartmentsPlan C1BR,1BA$3.23
Heritage Grove Apartments1x11BR,1BA$3.45

Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know

From the lounge to the laundry room, understand your rights and responsibilities in shared apartment spaces. Get tips on pet rules, noise, and security.

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

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Frequently Asked Questions about El Cerrito

What type of rentals are currently available in El Cerrito?

There are currently 1479 Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA with pricing that ranges from $950 to $8,250. There are also 83 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in El Cerrito ranging from $1,050 to $10,000.

What is the current price range for Rental Homes in El Cerrito?

Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in El Cerrito ranges from $1,050 to $10,000 with an average monthly rent of $4,293.

How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in El Cerrito?

For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in El Cerrito range from $1,475 to $7,735, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $2,775 to $5,800. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $4,300 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $1,742.

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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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.