420 Laurel Ave
San AnselmoCA94960
Cheap Homes for Rent in San Rafael, CA from $1,800 (9 Rentals)
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$2,2501 Bedroom Apartments Available May 28
16 Pacheco St, Unit 6
16 Pacheco StSan Rafael, CA 94901
1531 Sir Francis Drake Blvd
San AnselmoCA94960
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$2,4001 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
125 Nova Albion Way
125 Nova Albion WaySan Rafael, CA 94903
What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much
Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.
195 Melville Ave
San AnselmoCA94960
100 Wildomar St
Mill ValleyCA94941
15 Bank St
San AnselmoCA94960
170 Upper Via Casitas
LarkspurCA94904
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.
10 Professional Center Pkwy
San RafaelCA94903
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San Rafael, CA Local Guide
How much does it cost to rent a home in San Rafael?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Rafael 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,297 | $2,950 | $7,000 |
| San Rafael 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $5,617 | $3,900 | $7,500 |
| San Rafael 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $12,284 | $5,500 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Homes for Rent in San Rafael
Explore San Rafael
San Rafael, CA Local Guide
- San Rafael Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
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- Local Counties
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Cheapest Available San Rafael Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in San Rafael, CA is a Studio unit found at 1 H St in the West End San Rafael neighborhood priced from $1,895. 215 Bayview Apartments in the West End San Rafael neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,975. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Rafael apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 H St | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,895 |
| 215 Bayview Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,975 |
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $2,095 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Rafael, CA
As of May 27, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Rafael area is the $2.64 price per square foot 2 bedroom 2 bath Model at Prospect Hill Apartments in the in the Black Canyon neighborhood starting from $2,900. The second greatest value San Rafael apartment is the 2x1 Model at Skylark Apartments starting at $3,793 with a $3.51 price per square foot in the College Park neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Rafael apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prospect Hill Apartments | 2 bedroom 2 bath | 2BR,2BA | $2.64 |
| Skylark Apartments | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.51 |
| The Meridian | 3x2 | 3BR,2BA | $3.57 |
| Aqua Terra Apartments | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.56 |
| Highlands of Marin | Larkspur (B2A) | 2BR,2BA | $3.38 |
| Lone Palm Court Apartments | Two bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $2.74 |
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $2.77 |
| Bella Vista (06/25) | Two Bedroom One Bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.47 |
| Franciscan Manor | Apartment | 2BR,1BA | $3.30 |
| Nova at Terra Linda | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.56 |
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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Local 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 ArticleReal Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University
From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.
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 Rafael, CAPopulation: 58,704
Ranked #647
in US Census Population by City
Best Local Schools in San Rafael, CA
Sun Valley Elementary
San Rafael City Elementary School District
Public School - Grades K-5 (523)
10 out of 10
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore San Rafael, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Rafael, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about San Rafael
What type of rentals are currently available in San Rafael?
There are currently 687 Apartments for Rent in San Rafael, CA with pricing that ranges from $1,895 to $8,831. There are also 43 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in San Rafael ranging from $1,875 to $19,500.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in San Rafael?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in San Rafael ranges from $1,875 to $19,500 with an average monthly rent of $5,473.
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
A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back
Written by: Lauren Harrington
I’m going to talk with you as a seasoned property manager and friend. So, let’s start with your security deposit. I want you to think about this guide as insider information. You deserve your deposit back.
Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts
Written by: Lauren Harrington
This article is based on first-hand experience managing apartment communities and helping renters adapt to their spaces after moving in.
What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much
Written by: Lauren Harrington
This article draws from first-hand renter experiences and recurring financial challenges reported after moving in.
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.