Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA from $600 (102 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.

property at 420 Ellis St

$1,595 - $1,795

Studio Rentals

Available Now

420 Ellis St

San FranciscoCA94102

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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The Kelsey Civic Center
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Kelsey Civic Center

240 Van Ness AveSan Francisco, CA 94102
  • Utilities Included
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730 Stanyan
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

730 Stanyan

700-730 Stanyan StSan Francisco, CA 94117
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2550 Irving
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

2550 Irving

2550 Irving StSan Francisco, CA 94122
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1600 Larkin St
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

1600 Larkin St

1600 Larkin StSan Francisco, CA 94109
  • Utilities Included
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La Fnix at 1950
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

La Fnix at 1950

1950 Mission StSan Francisco, CA 94103
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555 EDDY Apartments
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

555 EDDY Apartments

555 Eddy StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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947 Bush
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

947 Bush

947 Bush StSan Francisco, CA 94109

Bay Living Like a Local: The Insider's Guide to Life and Renting in San Francisco, CA

Unlock the personality of Renting and Living in the City by the Bay. Learn where to eat the best tacos, find hidden views, and embrace the charming contradictions of San Francisco life.

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Freedom West Homes
1 to 4 Bedroom Apartments

Freedom West Homes

820 McAllister StSan Francisco, CA 94102
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Oasis Apartments
Studio Apartments

Oasis Apartments

351 Turk StSan Francisco, CA 94102
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Madonna Residences
Studio Apartments

Madonna Residences

350 Golden Gate AveSan Francisco, CA 94102
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513-519 Bush St
Studio Apartments

513-519 Bush St

513-519 Bush StSan Francisco, CA 94108
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1100 Ocean Avenue
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

1100 Ocean Avenue

1100-1140 Ocean AveSan Francisco, CA 94112
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The Sophie Maxwell
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Sophie Maxwell

1212 Maryland StSan Francisco, CA 94107
Student Housing
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Burnette Apartments
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Burnette Apartments

815 O'Farrell StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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145 Fell
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

145 Fell

145 Fell StSan Francisco, CA 94102
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520 Geary
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

520 Geary

520-524 Geary StSan Francisco, CA 94102
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McAlpin Building
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

McAlpin Building

427-439 Stockton StSan Francisco, CA 94108
  • 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.

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615 Leavenworth
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

615 Leavenworth

615 Leavenworth StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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620 Eddy St
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

620 Eddy St

620 Eddy StSan Francisco, CA 94109
  • Utilities Included
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930 Post
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

930 Post

930 Post StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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665 Eddy
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

665 Eddy

665 Eddy StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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516 Ellis
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

516 Ellis

500-516 Ellis StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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1750 Franklin St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1750 Franklin St

1750 Franklin StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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1051 Post
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1051 Post

1051 Post StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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675 OFarrell
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

675 OFarrell

675 O'Farrell StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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621 Taylor
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

621 Taylor

621 Taylor StSan Francisco, CA 94102
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372 7th Ave
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

372 7th Ave

372 7th AveSan Francisco, CA 94118
Student Housing
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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

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

Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Francisco, CA

Pricing Updated: 02/06/2026

Current apartment rentals in the San Francisco, CA area range in price from $695 to $29,891 with an overall median price of $5,901. The three San Francisco neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Upper Bal at $1,599, Caballo Hills at $1,899, and The Anchorage at Marina Bay at $2,000. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Francisco Apartments for rent:

NeighborhoodMedian PriceMin PriceAvailable Units
Upper Bal$1,895$1,5993
Caballo Hills$1,899$1,8992
The Anchorage at Marina Bay$2,000$2,0001
Upper Peralta Creek$2,050$1,8003
Allendale$2,074$1,7494
Redwood Heights$2,074$1,3955
Belding Woods$2,100$1,6004
Cortez$2,100$1,7505
Elmhurst Park$2,175$1,9002
Tuxedo$2,195$1,4651

Cheapest Available San Francisco Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at Lark Landing in the South Of Market neighborhood priced from $860. SF House in the South Of Market neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,300. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Francisco apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Lark LandingStudioStudio,1BA$860
SF HouseUrban NestStudio,1BA$1,300
ArtHaus MagnoliaFloor Plan B - Studio/1BAStudio,1BA$1,348
19 Cottage AvenuePrivate Room with Private Bathroom1BR,1BA$1,395
ArtHaus MandelaFloor Plan D - Studio/1BAStudio,1BA$1,398
516 Ellis1 Efficiency 1 Bath ApartmentStudio,1BA$1,495
949 Post St - Age 55+StudioStudio,1BA$1,545
839 LeavenworthStudio 1 Bath ApartmentStudio,1BA$1,645

Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA

As of February 07, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Francisco area is the $2.73 price per square foot Floorplan T Model at Ashton in the in the Visitacion Valley neighborhood starting from $4,628. The second greatest value San Francisco apartment is the 1640 12th St Model at 1640 12th St starting at $3,800 with a $2.77 price per square foot in the MacArthur Maze neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Francisco apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
AshtonFloorplan T2BR,2BA$2.73
1640 12th St1640 12th St4BR,1.5BA$2.77
5th Street LoftsLoft CStudio ,1BA$2.03
Highpoint TerraceAPPLY NOW FOR FUTURE AVAILABILITY! - Spacious a...2BR,2BA$2.78
731 Willow St731 Willow St4BR,2BA$2.40
3236 Helen St, Unit 3236 Helen St3236 Helen St3BR,2BA$2.91
The Courtyards at 65th StreetWallace2BR,2BA$2.72
2120 Pacific AveNo Current AvailabilityStudio ,1BA$2.65
Larkin Street Apartments1 Bedroom 1 Bath1BR,1BA$2.82
Lark LandingStudioStudio ,1BA$1.76

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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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!

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San Francisco, CA Area Reviews

  • Parks
  • Entertainment
  • Local Vibes
  • Restaurants
  • Location
  • Traffic
  • Public Transportation
  • Outdoor Access
  • Cost of Living
  • Safety

Shannon

February 25, 2025

Gorgeous 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 $1,645.

What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Francisco?

The cheapest apartment in San Francisco is Lark Landing which is listed at $898, while the average apartment in San Francisco costs $5,901.

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 8,476 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 $984 which is $4,917 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

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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.

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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.

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Bay Living Like a Local: The Insiders Guide to Life and Renting in San Francisco, CA

Written by: Shannon Hilson

San Francisco is so much more than just postcard-perfect views of cable cars and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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Maximizing Your Refund: Essential Tax Tips for Renters

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Other than tax professionals, I can’t think of anyone who looks forward to tax season. For everybody else, April is a stressful month to collect information and meet deadlines.

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18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.

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A Renters Guide for Tips on Writing Your Notice for Not Renewing Your Apartment

Written by: Bob Mallory

Packing up everything you own to move is so stressful for many that ending your apartment lease can feel like a small or unimportant task. Ending your lease involves more than simply turning over your keys on the last day.

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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.