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$1,945 - $3,045Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
3633 Colegrove Apartments
3633 Colegrove StSan Mateo, CA 94403
Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA from $1,300 (58 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in San Mateo.
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$2,0951 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Fiesta Apartments
640-700 19th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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$2,095Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
East Hillsdale Apartments
348 E Hillsdale BlvdSan Mateo, CA 94403
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$2,425 - $3,165Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
De Sabla Apartments
10 De Sabla RdSan Mateo, CA 94402
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$2,425 - $2,4501 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Ambassador Apartments
145 N El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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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.
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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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Rent Specials
$1,850 - $1,865Studio Apartments Available Now
Bonnie Brae Terrace, A 62+ Community
2400 Carlmont DrBelmont, CA 94002
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$1,875 - $2,950Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Tradewind Surf Apartments
1110 Polynesia DrFoster City, CA 94404
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$1,975 - $2,995Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Tradewind Surf Apartments
801 Foster City BlvdFoster City, CA 94404
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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$2,040Studio Apartments Available Now
Apartment in San Carlos Creek-Side Views Available for Lease!
17-25 Devonshire BlvdSan Carlos, CA 94070
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$2,195Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Bellevue Apartments
1445 Bellevue AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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$2,245 - $2,5451 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Villa Tuscany Apartment Homes
789 El CaminoBurlingame, CA 94010
1240 Alameda de las Pulgas
BelmontCA94002
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$2,400 - $3,2001 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Jan 7, 2026
Beachcomber Bali
1441 Beach Park BlvdFoster City, CA 94404
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$2,500 - $2,995Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Arlington
1401 Floribunda AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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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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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 Mateo, CA Local Guide
Cats being cats at CuriOdyssey in Coyote Point by Flickr User: aaron_anderer is licensed under CC BY 2.0
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Mateo?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap San Mateo Studio Apartments | $2,811 | $1,850 | $4,148 |
| Cheap San Mateo 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,428 | $2,095 | $8,861 |
| Cheap San Mateo 2 Bedroom Apartments | $4,406 | $2,470 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Mateo 3 Bedroom Apartments | $5,667 | $3,904 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Mateo 4 Bedroom Apartments | $7,287 | $6,700 | $7,875 |
Browse Top Apartments in San Mateo
See all Apartments in San MateoExplore San Mateo
San Mateo, CA Local Guide
Written By:
Staff Writer Local Guide Expert
- San Mateo Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Mateo, CA
Pricing Updated: 12/07/2025Current apartment rentals in the San Mateo, CA area range in price from to with an overall median price of . Here is today’s list neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Mateo Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baywood Aragon | $4,900 | $2,425 | 26 |
| Baywood Park | $4,925 | $1,850 | 60 |
| North Central | $9,084 | $2,215 | 48 |
Cheapest Available San Mateo Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in San Mateo, CA is a Studio unit found at Bonnie Brae Terrace, A 62+ Community in the Western Hills neighborhood priced from $1,850. 3633 Colegrove Apartments in the Sugarloaf neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,945. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Mateo apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonnie Brae Terrace, A 62+ Community | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,850 |
| 3633 Colegrove Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,945 |
| Apartment in San Carlos Creek-Side Views Available for Lease! | 0BR/1.0BA | Studio,1BA | $2,040 |
| Oakview | STUDIO | Studio,1BA | $2,205 |
| Fourth Circle | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,215 |
| Villa Tuscany Apartment Homes | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2,245 |
| 1950 Ivy St | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2,275 |
| 243 N. Ellsworth | 1 bed 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $2,295 |
| The Riley at Belmont Hills | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,363 |
| Hillsdale Garden | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,364 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA
As of December 07, 2025 the best value apartment in the San Mateo area is the $2.88 price per square foot 301 Model at Crown Towers Apartments in the in the Western Hills neighborhood starting from $4,325. The second greatest value San Mateo apartment is the 2238 Allegheny Way Model at 2238 Allegheny Way, Unit 2238 starting at $4,350 with a $2.90 price per square foot in the Western Hills neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Mateo apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crown Towers Apartments | 301 | 2BR,2BA | $2.88 |
| 2238 Allegheny Way, Unit 2238 | 2238 Allegheny Way | 2BR,2BA | $2.90 |
| 718 N Claremont St | 2 Bedrooms + Family Room | 2BR,1BA | $2.67 |
| Burlingame Towers | 2x2 | 2BR,2BA | $3.28 |
| Crestview Apartments | Plan D2: 2 Bed 1 Bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.24 |
| Lantern Cove | Cedarwood | 2BR,2BA | $3.33 |
| 515 N El Camino Real | 2 Beds, 1 bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.00 |
| Belmont Square Apartments | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.05 |
| Royal Pines | 1 Bed 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $3.40 |
| Villa Tuscany Apartment Homes | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $3.01 |
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.
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.
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San Mateo Overview
San Mateo is a warm, welcoming city with down-to-earth people from all walks of life. Easy access to big cities and beautiful vacation destinations makes San Mateo a perfect place to raise a family, start a career, or anything in between.
Why live in San Mateo, CA?
San Mateo is great for those who don't want to deal with the burdens of a big city, but who would also like access to the big cities when needed. 35 minutes south and you'll end up in San Jose, or head 30 minutes north to the beautiful city of San Francisco. That's not to say San Mateo doesn't have its own impressive amenities. Downtown you'll find over 200 restaurants to choose from for a night of great food and entertainment. On top of all that, the San Mateo school district is one of the best around, with parents raving about great teachers.
Pet Friendly LifestyleSan Mateo, CA
Ranked #81
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
2.5Pet Friendly
Best Local Schools in San Mateo, CA
George Hall Elementary
San Mateo-Foster City School District
Public School - Grades K-5 (387)
9 out of 10
Parkside Montessori
San Mateo-Foster City School District
Public School - Grades PK-8 (328)
7 out of 10
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore San Mateo, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Mateo, CA
Getting Around San Mateo, CA
Walk Score®
86 / 100
Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
73 / 100
Very Bikeable
Biking is convenient for most trips
Transit Score®
42 / 100
Some Transit
A few nearby public transportation options
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap San Mateo Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in San Mateo?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in San Mateo is under $2,364.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Mateo?
The cheapest apartment in San Mateo is Villa Tuscany Apartment Homes which is listed at $2,245, while the average apartment in San Mateo costs $6,303.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in San Mateo?
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 13 regular apartments in San Mateo 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 Mateo?
Cheap apartments in San Mateo have an average cost of $637 which is $5,666 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in San Mateo.
Expert Rental Resources
Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips
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.
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.
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!