
Cheap Homes for Rent in San Rafael, CA from $2,100 (10 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in San Rafael.


511 D St, Unit Unit A

9 Forest Ln

938 Lea Dr

1115 Sir Francis Drake Blvd
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.

226 D St

1131 Magnolia Ave

104 Dockside Cir

Furnished Studio-San Rafael - Francisco Bl...

315 C St
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.
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 | $3,943 | $2,950 | $4,995 |
| San Rafael 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $5,177 | $3,695 | $7,000 |
| San Rafael 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $10,550 | $4,750 | $10,000+ |
| San Rafael 5 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $14,875 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
| San Rafael 6 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $19,995 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Homes for Rent in San Rafael
Explore San Rafael
San Rafael, CA Local Guide
- San Rafael Neighborhoods
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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 $1,950. 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 | $1,950 |
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $2,099 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Rafael, CA
As of December 31, 2025 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 3x2 Model at The Meridian starting at $3,800 with a $3.62 price per square foot in the Canal 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 |
| The Meridian | 3x2 | 3BR,2BA | $3.62 |
| Nova at Terra Linda | 2x1_Large | 2BR,1BA | $3.29 |
| Lone Palm Court Apartments | Two bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $2.74 |
| Bella Vista (06/25) | Two Bedroom One Bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.47 |
| Skylark Apartments | 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $3.13 |
| 1 H St | 1 bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $3.59 |
| Parkside | The Sonoma | 1BR,1BA | $3.60 |
| The Oaktops Apartments | 253 | 1BR,1BA | $3.65 |
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $3.39 |
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.
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 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
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.
Best Local Schools in San Rafael, CA
Sun Valley Elementary
James B. Davidson Middle
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 689 Apartments for Rent in San Rafael, CA with pricing that ranges from $1,795 to $10,011. There are also 44 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in San Rafael ranging from $2,100 to $19,995.
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 $2,100 to $19,995 with an average monthly rent of $9,535.
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.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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.

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.

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!