Cheap Apartments for Rent in the South San Mateo Neighborhood of San Mateo, CA from $2,100 (42 Rentals)

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40 28th Ave
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

40 28th Ave

40 28th AveSan 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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Glendora Gardens
Studio Apartments

Glendora Gardens

3245 Glendora DrSan Mateo, CA 94403
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20 22nd Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

20 22nd Ave

20 22nd AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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2830 Flores St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

2830 Flores St

2830 Flores StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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30-32 McAker Ct
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

30-32 McAker Ct

30-32 McAker CtSan 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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2712 Flores St
1 Bedroom Apartments

2712 Flores St

2712 Flores StSan Mateo, CA 94403
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131 24th Ave
Studio Apartments

131 24th Ave

131 24th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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Palos Verdes Apt
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Palos Verdes Apt

1326 Palos Verdes DrSan Mateo, CA 94403
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111 28th Ave
Studio Apartments

111 28th Ave

111 28th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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1401 Cedarwood Dr
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

1401 Cedarwood Dr

1401 Cedarwood DrSan Mateo, CA 94403

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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Westwood Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Westwood Apartments

1241 W Hillsdale BlvdSan Mateo, CA 94403
  • Utilities Included
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33 Lodato Ave
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

33 Lodato Ave

33 Lodato AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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The Pines
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Pines

1333 Palos Verdes DrSan Mateo, CA 94403
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Glendora Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Glendora Apartments

1300 Overland DrSan Mateo, CA 94403
  • Utilities Included

Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs

Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

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Parkview Terrace
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Parkview Terrace

1501 W Hillsdale BlvdSan Mateo, CA 94402
  • Utilities Included
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51 28th Ave
Studio Apartments

51 28th Ave

51 28th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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Peninsula Station
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Peninsula Station

2901-2907 S El Camino RealSan Mateo, CA 94403
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124 27th Ave
Studio Apartments

124 27th Ave

124 27th AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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40 22nd Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

40 22nd Ave

40 22nd AveSan Mateo, CA 94403
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Montara
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Montara

2775 S Delaware StSan Mateo, CA 94403
  • Utilities Included

Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

South San Mateo, San Mateo, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Available South San Mateo Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in the South San Mateo area of San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at Oakview priced from $2,205. Hillsdale Garden has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $2,519. Here are the most affordable South San Mateo apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
OakviewSTUDIOStudio,1BA$2,205
Hillsdale Garden1 Bed B1BR,1BA$2,519
Crown Towers Apartments1051BR,1BA$2,595
2727 EdisonBeresford1BR,1BA$3,277

Best Value Apartments for Rent in South San Mateo, CA

As of December 30, 2025 the best value apartment in the South San Mateo area is the $4.18 price per square foot 2 Bed D Model at Hillsdale Garden in the in the Western Hills neighborhood starting from $3,932. The second greatest value South San Mateo apartment is the 105 Model at Crown Towers Apartments starting at $2,595 with a $3.48 price per square foot in the Western Hills neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for South San Mateo apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Hillsdale Garden2 Bed D2BR,1BA$4.18
Crown Towers Apartments1051BR,1BA$3.48
2727 EdisonBeresford1BR,1BA$5.11
OakviewSTUDIOStudio ,1BA$4.39

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
South San Mateo, San Mateo, CA

Ranked #34

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

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

2.5
Pet Friendly

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap South San Mateo Apartments

What is the price of a cheap apartment in South San Mateo?

The cheapest apartment in South San Mateo is Hillsdale Garden which is listed at $2,519, while the average apartment in South San Mateo costs $4,950.

What types of apartments are the cheapest in South 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 10 regular apartments in South San Mateo that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.

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

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How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips

Written by: Justin Habersaat

Getting your apartment ready for the holidays can be exciting but sometimes challenging in a smaller space. Here are some modern tips to keep things festive, safe, and inviting this season.

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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!