
Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA from $600 (104 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in San Francisco.


632 Masonic Ave

The Sophie Maxwell

666 Jackson St

SF House
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.

3500 23rd St, Unit Small Room

949 Post St - Age 55+

Sutter Street Apartments

55 Chumasero Dr, Unit 12C

Soma Residences

1030 Post Street Apartments

420 Ellis St
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.

731-753 & 743 Polk Street; 807 Ellis Street (1359rc)
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.
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.
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.
San Francisco, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Francisco?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap San Francisco Studio Apartments | $2,984 | $776 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Francisco 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,617 | $950 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Francisco 2 Bedroom Apartments | $4,814 | $962 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Francisco 3 Bedroom Apartments | $6,447 | $1,102 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Francisco 4 Bedroom Apartments | $7,403 | $2,700 | $10,000+ |
| San Francisco 5 Bedroom Apartments | $9,626 | $6,995 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Apartments in San Francisco
See all Apartments in San FranciscoExplore San Francisco

San Francisco, CA Local Guide

- San Francisco Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Francisco, CA
Pricing Updated: 12/15/2025Current apartment rentals in the San Francisco, CA area range in price from $272 to $29,950 with an overall median price of $5,866. The three San Francisco neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are City Center at $1,850, Elmhurst Park at $1,900, and Cherryland at $2,025. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Francisco Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Center | $1,850 | $1,850 | 1 |
| Elmhurst Park | $1,900 | $1,900 | 1 |
| Cherryland | $2,025 | $2,025 | 1 |
| School | $2,112 | $1,849 | 3 |
| Highland Park | $2,147 | $2,000 | 2 |
| Bella Vista | $2,295 | $2,295 | 1 |
| Ivy Hill | $2,295 | $1,199 | 3 |
| Iron Triangle | $2,300 | $1,500 | 6 |
| North Hayward | $2,400 | $1,764 | 16 |
| Linda Mar Valley | $2,400 | $2,400 | 1 |
Cheapest Available San Francisco Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in San Francisco, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at FOUND Study San Francisco in the South Of Market neighborhood priced from $700. 2550 Irving in the Sunset District neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $776. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Francisco apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| FOUND Study San Francisco | Private Room | 1BR,1BA | $700 |
| 2550 Irving | Studio | Studio,1BA | $776 |
| 731-753 & 743 Polk Street; 807 Ellis Street (1359rc) | 0BR/1.0BA | Studio,1BA | $895 |
| The Sophie Maxwell | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,273 |
| 965 Geary Street | 0BR/1.0BA | Studio,1BA | $1,295 |
| SF House | Urban Nest | Studio,1BA | $1,300 |
| ArtHaus Mandela | D | Studio,1BA | $1,448 |
| ArtHaus Magnolia | C | Studio,1BA | $1,500 |
| 949 Post St - Age 55+ | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,545 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA
As of December 15, 2025 the best value apartment in the San Francisco area is the $2.41 price per square foot 1370 20th Ave Model at 1370 20th Ave, Unit 1370 in the in the Sunset District neighborhood starting from $4,200. The second greatest value San Francisco apartment is the Floorplan P Model at Ashton starting at $4,425 with a $2.78 price per square foot in the Visitacion Valley neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Francisco apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1370 20th Ave, Unit 1370 | 1370 20th Ave | 2BR,2.5BA | $2.41 |
| Ashton | Floorplan P | 2BR,2BA | $2.78 |
| 5th Street Lofts | Loft C | Studio ,1BA | $2.03 |
| 2120 Pacific Ave | No Current Availability | Studio ,1BA | $2.65 |
| 1 Bed 1 Bath in Historical Building | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $2.56 |
| TOURNAHU INVESTMENT PROPERTIES | TOUR HOMES | 1BR,1BA | $2.53 |
| 965 Geary Street | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $2.53 |
| 839 Leavenworth | Studio 1 Bath Apartment | Studio ,1BA | $2.62 |
| 2550 Irving | 1 BR | 1BR,1BA | $2.71 |
| 731-753 & 743 Polk Street; 807 Ellis Street (1359rc) | 0BR/1.0BA | Studio ,1BA | $2.69 |
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 ArticleLocal 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
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.
San Francisco Overview
In the year 1849, many Americans began moving to San Francisco in their pursuit of gold. While these men never found much of this precious metal, they found something that would become even more valuable: a city that would become known as “The Paris of the West.” It is a wonderful nickname, but San Francisco needs no comparison as its vibrant citizens would be happy to tell you. Many revolutions in the name of love and harmony were brought to life in this city and it is filled with happy people. In fact, San Francisco is highly regarded as one of the greatest cities to live in due to its focus on harmony and happiness for its residents. The city is alive with breathtaking views and sophisticated culture. San Francisco is a prosperous community in many regards, and witnessing this all-American city will brighten the heart of tourists and citizens alike, which makes finding a home in one of the many available San Francisco apartments or rental homes a must.
Why live in San Francisco, CA?
San Francisco is one of the most beloved and unique cities in America. It is draped in gorgeous scenery and filled with a loving vibe from many people. From its introduction to American history, San Francisco has always been something completely different than the typical American city. It has always offered something that people want and changes the world for the better with its beliefs and culture. In a city founded on peace and love and located on the jaw-droppingly gorgeous Pacific coast, it is easy to see why San Francisco has cemented its name as one of the most iconic American cities. With a variety of options for apartments in San Francisco, finding a place to live here can be a breeze.
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore San Francisco, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Francisco, CA
Getting Around San Francisco, CA
Walk Score®
95 / 100
Walker’s Paradise
Daily errands do not require a car
Bike Score®
81 / 100
Very Bikeable
Biking is convenient for most trips
Transit Score®
83 / 100
Excellent Transit
Transit is convenient for most trips
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.
San Francisco, CA Area Reviews
Shannon
February 25, 2025Gorgeous parks and a wonderful place for those who appreciate culture, great food, and incredible ocean views. The arts and culture scene here is world-class!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap San Francisco Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in San Francisco?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in San Francisco is under $1,545.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Francisco?
The cheapest apartment in San Francisco is FOUND Study San Francisco which is listed at $700, while the average apartment in San Francisco costs $5,866.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in San Francisco?
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 9,035 regular apartments in San Francisco that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.
How do the prices of cheap apartments compare to the average apartment in San Francisco?
Cheap apartments in San Francisco have an average cost of $906 which is $4,960 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in San Francisco.
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

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.

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.

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

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!

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.




































