Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA from $600 (96 Rentals)

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901 Fairfax Ave
$1,369 - $1,692
Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$1,369 - $1,692

Total Monthly Price
$1,369 - $1,692
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartment Available Now

901 Fairfax Ave

901 Fairfax AveSan Francisco, CA 94124
Cost Per Sq.Ft.
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What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much

Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.

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524 37th Ave
$1,700 - $2,200
Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$1,700 - $2,200

Total Monthly Price
$1,700 - $2,200
1 Bedroom Apartment Available Now

524 37th Ave

524 37th AveSan Francisco, CA 94121
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38 San Gabriel Ave
$1,800
Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$1,800

Total Monthly Price
$1,800
1 Bedroom Apartment Available Now

38 San Gabriel Ave

38 San Gabriel AveSan Francisco, CA 94112
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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

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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2550 Irving
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

2550 Irving

2550 Irving StSan Francisco, CA 94122
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Columbia Apartments
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Columbia Apartments

743 Polk StSan Francisco, CA 94109
  • Utilities Included
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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
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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
  • Utilities Included

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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Madonna Residences
Studio Apartments

Madonna Residences

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

513-519 Bush St

513-519 Bush StSan Francisco, CA 94108
  • Utilities Included
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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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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
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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

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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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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Pine Properties LLC.
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Pine Properties LLC.

1739 Pine StSan Francisco, CA 94109
Student Housing
  • Utilities Included
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675 OFarrell
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

675 OFarrell

675 O'Farrell 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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1750 Franklin St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1750 Franklin St

1750 Franklin StSan Francisco, CA 94109
  • Utilities Included
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980 Bush
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

980 Bush

980 Bush StSan Francisco, CA 94109
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621 Taylor
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

621 Taylor

621 Taylor StSan Francisco, CA 94102
  • Utilities Included
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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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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.

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: 05/31/2026

Current apartment rentals in the San Francisco, CA area range in price from $674 to $259,501 with an overall median price of $5,365. The three San Francisco neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Highland Park at $1,280, Paradise Park at $1,750, and Ivy Hill at $1,695. 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
Highland Park$1,315$1,2801
Paradise Park$1,750$1,7501
Ivy Hill$1,795$1,6952
Upper Bal$1,895$1,5992
Patten$1,900$1,9001
Country Club$1,900$1,9001
Orinda Woods$1,900$1,9001
Shafter$1,945$1,8952
Allendale$1,950$1,6954
Bartlett$1,950$1,9502

Cheapest Available San Francisco Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at SF House in the South Of Market neighborhood priced from $1,300. ArtHaus Mandela in the MacArthur Maze neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,398. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Francisco apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
SF HouseUrban NestStudio,1BA$1,300
ArtHaus MandelaFloor Plan C Studio 1BAStudio,1BA$1,398
Larkin Street ApartmentsStudioStudio,1BA$1,495
949 Post StStudioStudio,1BA$1,545
145 Leavenworth StStudio, 1 fullStudio,1BA$1,545
The Cornelia SuitesCornelia StudioStudio,1BA$1,600
839 LeavenworthStudio 1 Bath ApartmentStudio,1BA$1,665
TL ResidencesStudio, 1 fullStudio,1BA$1,695

Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Francisco, CA

As of May 31, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Francisco area is the $2.12 price per square foot Loft C Model at 5th Street Lofts in the in the West Oakland neighborhood starting from $2,865. The second greatest value San Francisco apartment is the APPLY NOW FOR FUTURE AVAILABILITY! - Spacious a... Model at Highpoint Terrace starting at $3,700 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 ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
5th Street LoftsLoft CStudio ,1BA$2.12
Highpoint TerraceAPPLY NOW FOR FUTURE AVAILABILITY! - Spacious a...2BR,2BA$2.78
866 Pine St, Unit B866 Pine St4BR,1.5BA$2.56
1010 Chester St, Unit Lower Unit1010 Chester St3BR,2BA$2.96
162 Santa Fe Ave312 Richmond Avenue2BR,1BA$2.46
1215 Skyline Dr, Unit 1215 Skyline Dr, Daly City, CA 940151215 Skyline Dr3BR,2BA$3.06
2120 Pacific AveNo Current AvailabilityStudio ,1BA$2.65
901 Fairfax Ave901 Fairfax Ave1BR,1BA$2.19
38 San Gabriel Ave38 San Gabriel Ave1BR,1BA$3.00
Larkin Street ApartmentsStudioStudio ,1BA$2.70

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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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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Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University

From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.

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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.

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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 $1,695.

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

The cheapest apartment in San Francisco is 1030 Post Street Apartments which is listed at $1,795, while the average apartment in San Francisco costs $5,365.

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 4,504 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 $744 which is $4,621 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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Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent

Written by: Robin Stewart

Apartment-hunting can be a gargantuan task. Renters have a wish list of items—some luxuries, some necessities—but finding what you seek in the right place is perhaps the most important part of the journey.

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A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back

Written by: Lauren Harrington

I’m going to talk with you as a seasoned property manager and friend. So, let’s start with your security deposit. I want you to think about this guide as insider information. You deserve your deposit back.

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Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts

Written by: Lauren Harrington

This article is based on first-hand experience managing apartment communities and helping renters adapt to their spaces after moving in.

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What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much

Written by: Lauren Harrington

This article draws from first-hand renter experiences and recurring financial challenges reported after moving in.