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$2,095 - $2,150Studio Apartments Available Now
Country Club
420 N Bayshore FwySan Mateo, CA 94401
Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA from $1,300 (51 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in San Mateo.
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$2,300Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Casa Baywood
212 S El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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$2,300 - $2,5001 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Ivy Circle
1946 Ivy StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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$2,350 - $2,400Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Fourth Circle
1022 E 4th AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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$2,450 - $3,7951 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Ambassador Apartments
145 N El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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$2,488 - $6,2801 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Colonial Garden Apartments
460 N Humboldt StSan Mateo, CA 94401
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$2,499 - $4,381Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Ryan Tower
120 W 3rd AveSan Mateo, CA 94402
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Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
Brickline Flats
303 Baldwin AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
116 Elm St
116 Elm StSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
3655 Colegrove Apartments
3655 Colegrove StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
36th Avenue Apartments
49 W 36th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Montara
2775 S Delaware StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
zLaurel Place Apartments
52 E 41st PlSan Mateo, CA 94403
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
816 Highland Ave
816 Highland AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Kiku Crossing
480 E 4th AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
227 Elm St
227 Elm StSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
2831 – 2845 Flores Apartments
2831 Flores StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Mariner's West Apartments
735 Fathom DrSan Mateo, CA 94404
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
130-132 Dartmouth Rd
130-132 Dartmouth RdSan Mateo, CA 94402
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1 Bedroom Apartments
1950 Ivy St
1950 Ivy StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Gateway Apartments
438 N El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Park Central
724 Laurel AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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1 Bedroom Apartments
1113 Haddon Dr
1113 Haddon DrSan Mateo, CA 94402
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1 Bedroom Apartments
1109 Haddon Dr
1109 Haddon DrSan Mateo, CA 94402
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Glendora Apartments
3223 Glendora DrSan Mateo, CA 94403
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$1,850 - $1,865Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
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
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$1,995Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Bellevue Apartments
1445 Bellevue AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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$2,400 - $3,2001 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Beachcomber Bali
1441 Beach Park BlvdFoster City, CA 94404
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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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Chateau D'Oro Apartments
1001 Continentals WayBelmont, CA 94002
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
1225 Laguna Avenue Apartments
1225 Laguna AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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1 Bedroom Apartments
1133-1129 Rhinette Ave
1133-1129 Rhinette AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Devonshire
17-25 Devonshire BlvdSan Carlos, CA 94070
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Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Catania Apartments
2431 Carlmont DrBelmont, CA 94002
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Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
Highland Apartments
115 Highland AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Carlmont Heights
2213 Hastings DrBelmont, CA 94002
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Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
Villa Tuscany Apartment Homes
789 El CaminoBurlingame, CA 94010
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Cedar Patio Apartments
547 Cedar StSan Carlos, CA 94070
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Sand Castle Apartments
1125 Balclutha DrFoster 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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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Laurel Terrace
399 Laurel StSan Carlos, CA 94070
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Crestview Apartments
510 Crest View AveBelmont, CA 94002
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
6th Ave
1665 6th AveBelmont, CA 94002
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2 Bedroom Apartments
Carlmont Hills Apartments
2401 Carlmont DrBelmont, CA 94002
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Hill Garden Apartments
941 Hill StBelmont, CA 94002
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
540 Elm Street
540 Elm StSan Carlos, CA 94070
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Village Court Apartments
2251 Village CtBelmont, CA 94002
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1 Bedroom Apartments
The Alameda Apartments
1240 AlamedaBelmont, CA 94002
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Franciscan Apartments
888 Foster City BlvdFoster City, CA 94404
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
128 Lorton Ave
128 Lorton AveBurlingame, CA 94010
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
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Mateo?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap San Mateo Studio Apartments | $2,797 | $1,850 | $3,921 |
| Cheap San Mateo 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,493 | $2,150 | $7,934 |
| Cheap San Mateo 2 Bedroom Apartments | $4,507 | $2,650 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Mateo 3 Bedroom Apartments | $5,562 | $3,795 | $6,682 |
| Cheap San Mateo 4 Bedroom Apartments | $6,712 | $5,550 | $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: 03/09/2026Current 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 | $4,490 | $2,300 | 18 |
| Baywood Park | $5,100 | $1,850 | 29 |
| North Central | $5,499 | $2,095 | 27 |
Cheapest Available San Mateo Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in San Mateo, CA is a Studio unit found at Country Club in the Central San Mateo neighborhood priced from $2,095. Casa Baywood in the Central San Mateo neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $2,300. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Mateo apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country Club | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,095 |
| Casa Baywood | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,300 |
| Colonial Garden Apartments | Plan 1 | 1BR,1BA | $2,488 |
| Ryan Tower | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,499 |
| The Preston at Hillsdale | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,549 |
| Alta off the Avenue | Studio B | Studio,1BA | $2,550 |
| Madison Place | 1 x 1 | 1BR,1BA | $2,575 |
| Crown Towers Apartments | 209 | 1BR,1BA | $2,595 |
| San Carlos Apartments LLC | 1 Bed 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $2,595 |
| Hillsdale Garden | 1 Bed A | 1BR,1BA | $2,608 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA
As of March 09, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Mateo area is the $2.47 price per square foot 21 El Cerrito Ave Model at 21 El Cerrito Ave, Unit 21 in the in the Central San Mateo neighborhood starting from $4,700. The second greatest value San Mateo apartment is the 2 Bed 1 Bath Model at Devonshire Apartments starting at $3,195 with a $2.66 price per square foot in the McDougal 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. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 El Cerrito Ave, Unit 21 | 21 El Cerrito Ave | 2BR,2.5BA | $2.47 |
| Devonshire Apartments | 2 Bed 1 Bath | 2BR,1BA | $2.66 |
| Ambassador Apartments | 3x2 | 3BR,2BA | $3.31 |
| Carlmont Apartments - Entire Building Remodeled - No Pet Fee | 2BR/2.0BA | 2BR,2BA | $3.41 |
| Belmont Square Apartments | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.05 |
| Two Clark Drive Apartments | 1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom | 1BR,1BA | $3.44 |
| Ralston at Belmont | R TMA 1+1 | 1BR,1BA | $3.50 |
| Oakview | 1x1C | 1BR,1BA | $3.54 |
| One Three Four Elm Apartments | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $3.53 |
| Crown Towers Apartments | 209 | 1BR,1BA | $3.48 |
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 ArticleCash 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.
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
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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.
San Mateo, CAPopulation: 105,025
Ranked #295
in US Census Population by City
Best Local Schools in San Mateo, CA
George Hall Elementary
San Mateo-Foster City School District
Public School - Grades K-5 (370)
8 out of 10
Parkside Montessori
San Mateo-Foster City School District
Public School - Grades PK-8 (418)
9 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
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 $2,608.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Mateo?
The cheapest apartment in San Mateo is Colonial Garden Apartments which is listed at $2,488, while the average apartment in San Mateo costs $5,029.
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 3 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 $736 which is $4,293 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in San Mateo.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.