
Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Jose, CA from $500 (87 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in San Jose.


Summercrest Villas

Blossom Valley Senior Apartments

412 E William St

Total Monthly Price
163 Gifford Ave, Unit D, Unit D

Total Monthly Price
164 S 10th St

2112 Morrill Ave, Unit 2112

Atrium Garden

Vela Apartments

The Village at Willow Glen - 55+ Only
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.

Vitalia Apartments

471 N San Pedro St

960 S 6th St, Unit 1

52 Cleveland Ave, Unit 2

Orchard Glen

Hacienda Creek Senior Apartments

Park West Apartments

801 S Winchester Blvd, Unit 44

Paseo Senter

Willow Pointe
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.

Delmas Park

Miraido Village

Miranda Village

Trestles Apartments

Oaks at Almaden Senior Apartments

Page Street Studios

Pensione Esperanza

Gadberry Courts Apartments

Villa Hermosa

Eden Palms Apartments
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.

912 - 914 Delbert Way

Jeanne D ARC Manor

Pollard Plaza Apartment

The Dudley Apartments

Brookwood Terrace

Lenzen Square - WAITLIST IS CLOSED

SRO-Apartment Building

650 S 8th St

215 Oak St

Bella Castello
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.

Almaden House

122 Graham Avenue Apartments

Monte Vista Senior Affordable Apartments

Turnleaf Apartments

Royal Garden Apartments

1137 Roewill Dr

Ranchero Grove Apartments

Ranchero Apartments

Alvarado Park - 55+ Senior Housing

Metro Gardens
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 Jose, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Jose?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap San Jose Studio Apartments | $2,835 | $972 | $5,630 |
| Cheap San Jose 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,486 | $976 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Jose 2 Bedroom Apartments | $4,417 | $995 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Jose 3 Bedroom Apartments | $5,267 | $1,460 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Jose 4 Bedroom Apartments | $8,472 | $1,300 | $10,000+ |
| San Jose 5 Bedroom Apartments | $17,613 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Apartments in San Jose
See all Apartments in San JoseExplore San Jose

San Jose, CA Local Guide

- San Jose Neighborhoods
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Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Jose, CA
Pricing Updated: 05/13/2026Current apartment rentals in the San Jose, CA area range in price from $972 to $25,200 with an overall median price of $6,679. The three San Jose neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Burbank at $1,690, Central Los Altos at $1,708, and Hillside at $1,900. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Jose Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burbank | $1,690 | $1,690 | 1 |
| Central Los Altos | $1,901 | $1,708 | 1 |
| Hillside | $1,937 | $1,900 | 1 |
| Rose Garden | $2,350 | $2,350 | 1 |
| Cambrian Community | $2,617 | $1,599 | 5 |
| The Willows | $2,687 | $2,425 | 1 |
| Starbird | $2,795 | $2,195 | 3 |
| Garden | $2,800 | $2,800 | 1 |
| Hillview | $2,807 | $1,437 | 10 |
| Story Road | $2,807 | $1,437 | 4 |
Cheapest Available San Jose Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in San Jose, CA is a Studio unit found at Stevens Creek in the Loma Linda neighborhood priced from $972. Summercrest Villas in the South San Jose neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $976. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Jose apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stevens Creek | Studio | Studio,1BA | $972 |
| Summercrest Villas | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $976 |
| 27 North - Student Housing Apartments | 2B Shared Attached - Fall 2026 (Other) | 2BR,2BA | $995 |
| Blossom Valley Senior Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $995 |
| 88 Saratoga Avenue Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,004 |
| Borregas Court Apartments | Studio A | Studio,1BA | $1,200 |
| Parkside Studios | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,235 |
| 164 S 10th St | 164 S 10th St | 1BR,4BA | $1,240 |
| Vela Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,437 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Jose, CA
As of May 13, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Jose area is the $2.25 price per square foot Malina Townhome - Live/Work Model at Lawrence Station in the in the North San Jose neighborhood starting from $4,789. The second greatest value San Jose apartment is the MODEL 2 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM - FOR VIEWING ONLY Model at Stonebridge Apartments starting at $2,590 with a $2.16 price per square foot in the South San Jose neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Jose apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawrence Station | Malina Townhome - Live/Work | 2BR,2.5BA | $2.25 |
| Stonebridge Apartments | MODEL 2 BEDROOM 2 BATHROOM - FOR VIEWING ONLY | 2BR,2BA | $2.16 |
| Dry Creek Crossing | 3 Beds, 2 baths | 3BR,2BA | $2.50 |
| Sedona Apartments | 2bed 1bath | 2BR,1BA | $2.44 |
| 27 North - Student Housing Apartments | 2D Private Attached - Spring 2026 (Other) | 2BR,2BA | $2.19 |
| 515 E WiLL | 7 | 1BR,1BA | $2.49 |
| Summercrest Villas | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $1.70 |
| Stevens Creek | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $2.28 |
| 88 Saratoga Avenue Apartments | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $2.38 |
| Blossom Valley Senior Apartments | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $2.53 |
Beyond Campus: Finding Your Perfect San Jose Apartment in the Perfect Student Friendly Neighborhood
Going to college in San Jose? Our local expert gives you the inside scoop on the best neighborhoods to live near Near SJSU, SCU, SJCC, and EVC
Read ArticleDon'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 ArticleReal 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.
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 Jose Overview
Many people have been flocking to California Bay Area’s biggest city for the past 50 years and it only takes a moment to see all the reasons why. Nestled in the middle of Silicon Valley, the booming Tech Industry calls this area home, the sun shines over 250 days a year, and the beauty of all of California’s diverse landscapes are all within a few hours’ drive. Its residents are highly educated and culturally diverse and the city offers many opportunities for them to get out of their San Jose apartments and meet your neighbors from annual festivals to enjoying a day at the 170 acre Kelley Park. If you prefer not to drive, the Downtown area caters to those who would rather walk, bike, or ride the train or bus.
Why live in San Jose, CA?
San Jose is known for being at the leading edge of technology when the tech industry is in its Golden Age. Business is booming and the economy is growing so well that the city has dubbed itself the “Capital of Opportunity”. Young professionals will feel at home here with almost 40% of the population being between the ages of 20 and 40. And with a wide variety of options for homes and apartments in San Jose, finding the perfect place is a cinch.
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore San Jose, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Jose, CA
San Jose, CA Area Reviews
Shannon
May 4, 2025Wonderful place to live if you work remotely, in tech, or in the creative arts. Fantastic vibes and really very affordable compared to other cities like San Francisco. Lots of amazing places to grab a quick bite or waste a spare afternoon, as well.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap San Jose Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in San Jose?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in San Jose is under $1,437.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Jose?
The cheapest apartment in San Jose is Summercrest Villas which is listed at $976, while the average apartment in San Jose costs $6,679.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in San Jose?
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 5,879 regular apartments in San Jose 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 Jose?
Cheap apartments in San Jose have an average cost of $629 which is $6,050 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in San Jose.
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

A Local Expert's Guide to the Top 10 Best Affordable Neighborhoods for Renters in San Jose
Written by: Shannon Hilson
If you’ve spent much time in San Jose, you’ve likely heard it referred to as “the capital of Silicon Valley” a time or two, and with good reason. San Jose has it all when it comes to the modern California lifestyle and then some.

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.

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.

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.