
Cheap Homes for Rent in Downtown San Mateo Neighborhood of San Mateo, CA from $2,600 (10 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in the Downtown San Mateo area of San Mateo.


111 Elm St

337 S Fremont St

337 S Fremont St
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.

338 S Fremont St

230 W 5th Ave, Unit 303
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.
Downtown San Mateo, San Mateo, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent a home in Downtown San Mateo?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown San Mateo 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,500 | $3,100 | $6,000 |
| Downtown San Mateo 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $5,200 | $5,200 | $5,200 |
| Downtown San Mateo 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $23,500 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
Browse Homes for Rent in this Neighborhood
There are currently 10 rentals with your search options within a 2 mile radius of the Downtown San Mateo Neighborhood of San Mateo, CA.
Explore San Mateo
Downtown San Mateo, San Mateo, CA Local Guide
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Cheapest Available Downtown San Mateo Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in the Downtown San Mateo area of San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at Fourth Circle priced from $2,230. De Sabla Apartments has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $2,425. Here are the most affordable Downtown San Mateo apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fourth Circle | Studio | Studio,1BA | $2,230 |
| De Sabla Apartments | Skyline | Studio,1BA | $2,425 |
| One Three Four Elm Apartments | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2,715 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Downtown San Mateo, CA
As of November 26, 2025 the best value apartment in the Downtown San Mateo area is the $3.97 price per square foot 2x1 Model at Monterey Garden in the in the Central San Mateo neighborhood starting from $4,714. The second greatest value Downtown San Mateo apartment is the 2 bed 1 bath Model at 111 Elm St starting at $3,100 with a $3.44 price per square foot in the Central San Mateo neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Downtown San Mateo apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monterey Garden | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.97 |
| 111 Elm St | 2 bed 1 bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.44 |
| Metropolitan | Plan 1GR | 1BR,1BA | $5.65 |
| One Three Four Elm Apartments | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $3.53 |
| West 5th | 1 Bedroom Large | 1BR,1BA | $4.38 |
| Park Laurel Apartments | Fully Renovated 1 Bed/1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $4.93 |
| Two50 Downtown | Studio 540 sq ft | Studio ,1BA | $6.29 |
| Fourth Circle | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $4.46 |
| Ryan Tower | Studio | Studio ,1BA | $6.39 |
| De Sabla Apartments | Skyline | Studio ,1BA | $5.91 |
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.
Read ArticleThe 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 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.
Pet Friendly LifestyleDowntown San Mateo, San Mateo, CA
Ranked #28
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
4.0Pet Friendly
Frequently Asked Questions about Downtown San Mateo
What type of rentals are currently available in Downtown San Mateo?
There are currently 178 Apartments for Rent in Downtown San Mateo, CA with pricing that ranges from $2,230 to $6,465. There are also 17 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Downtown San Mateo ranging from $2,650 to $23,500.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Downtown San Mateo?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Downtown San Mateo ranges from $2,650 to $23,500 with an average monthly rent of $8,962.
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.

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!

The Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist: A Guide for Renters
Written by: Trey Huguley
The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in.



