
Cheap Apartments for Rent in Novato, CA from $1,800 (66 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in Novato.


1221 Vallejo Avenue Apartments

Wyndover Apartment Homes

Villas at Hamilton

Crooked Oak at Loma Verde Preserve Apartment Homes
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.
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.
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.
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.
Novato, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Novato?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap Novato Studio Apartments | $1,848 | $1,848 | $1,848 |
| Cheap Novato 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,585 | $2,089 | $3,161 |
| Cheap Novato 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,102 | $2,395 | $3,636 |
| Cheap Novato 3 Bedroom Apartments | $3,550 | $3,550 | $3,550 |
Browse Top Apartments in Novato
See all Apartments in NovatoExplore Novato
Novato, CA Local Guide

- Novato Neighborhoods
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Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Novato, CA
Pricing Updated: 01/02/2026Current apartment rentals in the Novato, CA area range in price from $1,848 to $10,426 with an overall median price of $5,552. The three Novato neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Southwest Novato at $2,905, Central Novato at $2,150, and Downtown Novato at $2,150. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Novato Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Novato | $2,942 | $2,905 | 2 |
| Central Novato | $3,550 | $2,150 | 17 |
| Downtown Novato | $3,550 | $2,150 | 16 |
| Midwest Novato | $3,550 | $2,150 | 18 |
| Northwest Novato | $3,550 | $2,150 | 4 |
| Pleasant Valley | $3,550 | $2,150 | 16 |
| San Ramon | $3,550 | $2,150 | 17 |
| Ignacio | $10,426 | $1,848 | 17 |
| Loma Verde | $10,426 | $1,848 | 6 |
| Southeast Novato | $10,426 | $1,848 | 6 |
Cheapest Available Novato Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in Novato, CA is a Studio unit found at Villas at Hamilton in the Southeast Novato neighborhood priced from $1,848. 1221 Vallejo Avenue Apartments in the Downtown Novato neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $2,150. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Novato apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Villas at Hamilton | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,848 |
| 1221 Vallejo Avenue Apartments | 1BR/1BA | 1BR,1BA | $2,150 |
| OTAVON APARTMENTS | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $2,300 |
| Wyndover Apartment Homes | A1 | 1BR,1BA | $2,435 |
| Bridgecreek | Fieldstone | 2BR,2BA | $2,475 |
| Highlands of Marin | Napa (A1A) | 1BR,1BA | $2,576 |
| Deer Valley | Plan 1A | 1BR,1BA | $2,587 |
| McInnis Park | Birch | 1BR,1BA | $2,725 |
| Posada East | 2 bedroom Flat | 2BR,1BA | $2,725 |
| Marion Park | Liberte - 1 st floor with a patio | 2BR,2BA | $2,800 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Novato, CA
As of January 03, 2026 the best value apartment in the Novato area is the $2.76 price per square foot 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Model at Posada West Apartments in the in the Southeast Novato neighborhood starting from $3,175. The second greatest value Novato apartment is the 2 bedroom Flat Model at Posada East starting at $2,725 with a $2.48 price per square foot in the Southeast Novato neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Novato apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Posada West Apartments | 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom | 2BR,2BA | $2.76 |
| Posada East | 2 bedroom Flat | 2BR,1BA | $2.48 |
| Marion Park | Liberte - 1 st floor with a patio | 2BR,2BA | $3.09 |
| Bridgecreek | Verissimo | 2BR,2BA | $3.03 |
| Crooked Oak at Loma Verde Preserve Apartment Homes | 2BR/2BA A | 2BR,2BA | $3.28 |
| Millworks | 1 Bedroom 1 Bath Plan D | 1BR,1BA | $3.93 |
| Wyndover Apartment Homes | A1 | 1BR,1BA | $3.12 |
| Deer Valley | Plan 1A | 1BR,1BA | $3.66 |
| McInnis Park | Birch | 1BR,1BA | $3.90 |
| Villas at Hamilton | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $3.94 |
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.
Read ArticleThe 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.
Read ArticleCash 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.
Read ArticleQuick 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.
Novato Overview
Novato, California, is located in the northwest area of California, just 30 minutes north of San Francisco. It's close to the Pacific Ocean as well as several National Forests. Apartments in Novato range from $1,475 for a studio, to $4,700 for a four-bedroom home. What's so great about living in Novato? We've got the scoop.
Why live in Novato, CA?
Novato has the perfect mix of past and present, city and nature. Historic landmarks include the Marin Museum of the American Indian and Olompali State Park which features the first Spanish colonial house built in Marin County. The Vintage Oaks Shopping Center includes major retailers such as Costco and Target, as well as over 50 other retail stores and restaurants. Major employers in the area include Novato Unified School District, BioMarin Pharmaceutical, and the Buck Institute for Aging. For those who like to get out of their Novato apartments, there are over 3,600 acres of open space to explore including hiking and mountain biking trails, golf courses, a skate park, state parks, fishing, camping, and bird-watching areas.
Best Local Schools in Novato, CA
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore Novato, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in Novato, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Novato Apartments
What is the price of a cheap apartment in Novato?
The cheapest apartment in Novato is Villas at Hamilton which is listed at $2,089, while the average apartment in Novato costs $5,552.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in Novato?
Student, low-income, and by-the-bed apartments are typically the cheapest rentals in most cities, though they require qualifying criteria to rent. There are 39 regular apartments in Novato that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.
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.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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.

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.

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.

How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Everything is a negotiation in real estate!











































