Cheap Apartments for Rent in the North Central San Mateo Neighborhood of San Mateo, CA from $1,300 (16 Rentals)

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Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in the North Central San Mateo area of San Mateo.

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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Brickline Flats
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Brickline Flats

303 Baldwin AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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116 Elm St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

116 Elm St

116 Elm StSan Mateo, CA 94401
  • Utilities Included
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816 Highland Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

816 Highland Ave

816 Highland AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Kiku Crossing
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Kiku Crossing

480 E 4th AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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227 Elm St
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

227 Elm St

227 Elm StSan Mateo, CA 94401

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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243 N. Ellsworth
1 to 4 Bedroom Apartments

243 N. Ellsworth

243 N Ellsworth AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Gateway Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Gateway Apartments

438 N El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Park Central
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Park Central

724 Laurel AveSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Park Royal Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Park Royal Apartments

651 N El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94401
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Highland Apartments
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Highland Apartments

115 Highland AveBurlingame, CA 94010
  • Utilities Included

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.

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128 Lorton Ave
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

128 Lorton Ave

128 Lorton AveBurlingame, CA 94010

North Central San Mateo, San Mateo, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Available North Central San Mateo Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in the North Central San Mateo area of San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at Country Club priced from $2,075. Fourth Circle has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $2,215. Here are the most affordable North Central San Mateo apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Country ClubStudioStudio,1BA$2,075
Fourth CircleStudioStudio,1BA$2,215
243 N. Ellsworth1 bed 1 Bath1BR,1BA$2,250
Royal Pines1 Bed 1 Bath1BR,1BA$2,450
Ryan TowerStudioStudio,1BA$2,599

Best Value Apartments for Rent in North Central San Mateo, CA

As of January 13, 2026 the best value apartment in the North Central 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 North Central San Mateo apartment is the 2 Beds, 1 bath Model at 515 N El Camino Real starting at $2,995 with a $3.00 price per square foot in the Central San Mateo neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for North Central San Mateo apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
21 El Cerrito Ave, Unit 2121 El Cerrito Ave2BR,2.5BA$2.47
515 N El Camino Real2 Beds, 1 bath2BR,1BA$3.00
603 Woodside Way, Unit 2603 Woodside Way2BR,1.5BA$4.00
111 Elm St2 bed 1 bath2BR,1BA$3.50
Two Clark Drive Apartments1 Bedroom/1 Bathroom1BR,1BA$3.44
Royal Pines1 Bed 1 Bath1BR,1BA$3.27
Park Laurel ApartmentsFully Renovated 1 Bed/1 Bath1BR,1BA$4.93
888 San Mateo ApartmentsJR-1 (B) AVAIL 02/06/2026Studio ,1BA$4.57
Colonial Garden ApartmentsPlan 11BR,1BA$4.87
Fourth CircleStudioStudio ,1BA$4.43

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.

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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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Quick 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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Pet Friendly Lifestyle
North Central San Mateo, San Mateo, CA

Ranked #22

Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

4.0
Pet Friendly

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap North Central San Mateo Apartments

What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in North Central San Mateo?

Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in North Central San Mateo is at Country Club listed at $2,075.

How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom North Central San Mateo Apartment?

The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom North Central San Mateo Apartment is $2,250 at 243 N. Ellsworth.

What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom North Central San Mateo Apartment for rent?

Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in North Central San Mateo is starting from $2,944 at Colonial Garden Apartments.

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.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

decorative image for A Renters Guide for Tips on Writing Your Notice for Not Renewing Your Apartment article

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.

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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.

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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.

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How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate!