Cheap Apartments for Rent in the Montecito Neighborhood of San Rafael, CA from $1,700 (128 Rentals)

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Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in the Montecito area of San Rafael.

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111 Laurel Pl
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

111 Laurel Pl

111 Laurel PlSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Hammondale
1 Bedroom Apartments

Hammondale

5 Hammondale CtSan Rafael, CA 94901
  • Utilities Included
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320 C St
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

320 C St

320 C StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Riviera Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Riviera Apartments

4 Point San Pedro RdSan Rafael, CA 94901
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1012 Irwin
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1012 Irwin

1012 Irwin StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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16 Elaine Way
2 Bedroom Apartments

16 Elaine Way

16 Elaine WaySan Rafael, CA 94901

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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1409 5th Ave
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

1409 5th Ave

1409 5th AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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608 C St
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

608 C St

608 C StSan Rafael, CA 94901
Furnished
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289 Woodland Ave
1 Bedroom Apartments

289 Woodland Ave

289 Woodland AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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1704 Lincoln Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1704 Lincoln Ave

1704 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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31 Valencia Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

31 Valencia Ave

31 Valencia AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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575 Canal St
Studio Apartments

575 Canal St

575 Canal StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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415 Mission Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

415 Mission Ave

415 Mission AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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12 Woodland
Studio Apartments

12 Woodland

12 Woodland AveSan Rafael, CA 94901

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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17 Hillcrest Dr
2 Bedroom Apartments

17 Hillcrest Dr

17 Hillcrest DrSan Rafael, CA 94901
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531 D St
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

531 D St

531 D StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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12 Laurel Pl
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

12 Laurel Pl

12 Laurel PlSan Rafael, CA 94901
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17 Taylor St
1 Bedroom Apartments

17 Taylor St

17 Taylor StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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16 Charlotte Dr
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

16 Charlotte Dr

16 Charlotte DrSan Rafael, CA 94901
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460 Canal St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

460 Canal St

460 Canal StSan Rafael, CA 94901
  • Smoke Free
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420 Belle Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

420 Belle Ave

420 Belle AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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163 Novato St
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

163 Novato St

163 Novato StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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3757 Kerner
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

3757 Kerner

3757 KernerSan Rafael, CA 94901

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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182 Mission Ave
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

182 Mission Ave

182 Mission AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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1516 Lincoln Ave
Studio Apartments

1516 Lincoln Ave

1516 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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32-34 Warner Ct
2 Bedroom Apartments

32-34 Warner Ct

32-34 Warner CtSan Rafael, CA 94901
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5 Elaine Way
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

5 Elaine Way

5 Elaine WaySan Rafael, CA 94901
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21 Marian Ct
2 Bedroom Apartments

21 Marian Ct

21 Marian CtSan Rafael, CA 94901
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440 Canal St
3 Bedroom Apartments

440 Canal St

440 Canal StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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410 D St
Studio Apartments

410 D St

410 D StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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2-2A Prospect Dr
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

2-2A Prospect Dr

2-2A Prospect DrSan Rafael, CA 94901
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1424 Lincoln Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

1424 Lincoln Ave

1424 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901

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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210 Mission Ave
2 to 4 Bedroom Apartments

210 Mission Ave

210 Mission AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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166 Park St
1 Bedroom Apartments

166 Park St

166 Park StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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15 Marian Ct
2 Bedroom Apartments

15 Marian Ct

15 Marian CtSan Rafael, CA 94901
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540 Canal St
1 Bedroom Apartments

540 Canal St

540 Canal StSan Rafael, CA 94901
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144 Bungalow Ave
Studio Apartments

144 Bungalow Ave

144 Bungalow AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Six Laurel Place
2 Bedroom Apartments

Six Laurel Place

6 Laurel PlSan Rafael, CA 94901
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1223 Grand Ave
Studio Apartments

1223 Grand Ave

1223 Grand AveSan Rafael, CA 94901

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.

Montecito, San Rafael, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Available Montecito Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in the Montecito area of San Francisco, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Clock Tower Apartments priced from $1,995. One55 Lofts has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $2,198. Here are the most affordable Montecito apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Clock Tower Apartments1 Br 1 Ba1BR,1BA$1,995
One55 LoftsStudioStudio,1BA$2,198
Park Hill1x1A1BR,1BA$2,285
Lone Palm Court ApartmentsTwo bedroom2BR,1BA$2,600
Rafael Town Center Apartments1 Bedroom 1C1BR,1BA$2,721
Second & B StreetClay Model1BR,1BA$2,999
The Meridian3x23BR,2BA$3,603

Best Value Apartments for Rent in Montecito, CA

As of March 14, 2026 the best value apartment in the Montecito area is the $3.43 price per square foot 3x2 Model at The Meridian in the in the Canal neighborhood starting from $3,603. The second greatest value Montecito apartment is the Two bedroom Model at Lone Palm Court Apartments starting at $2,600 with a $2.74 price per square foot in the East San Rafael neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Montecito apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
The Meridian3x23BR,2BA$3.43
Lone Palm Court ApartmentsTwo bedroom2BR,1BA$2.74
Clock Tower Apartments1 Br 1 Ba1BR,1BA$2.85
Second & B StreetClay Plus Model1BR,1BA$4.86
Rafael Town Center Apartments1 Bedroom 1C1BR,1BA$4.41
One55 LoftsOne Bedroom Loft1BR,1BA$4.93
Park Hill1x1A1BR,1BA$5.19

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
Montecito, San Rafael, CA

Ranked #21

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

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

3.0
Pet Friendly

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Montecito Apartments

What is the price of a cheap apartment in Montecito?

The cheapest apartment in Montecito is Clock Tower Apartments which is listed at $1,995, while the average apartment in Montecito costs $3,603.

What types of apartments are the cheapest in Montecito?

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 1 regular apartments in Montecito 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.

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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

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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.

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18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.

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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.