Cheap Apartments for Rent in the West San Rafael Neighborhood of San Rafael, CA from $1,800 (60 Rentals)

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

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Hammondale
1 Bedroom Apartments

Hammondale

5 Hammondale CtSan Rafael, CA 94901
  • Utilities Included
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San Rafael Manor
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

San Rafael Manor

1030 Los Gamos RdSan Rafael, CA 94903
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22 N San Pablo Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

22 N San Pablo Ave

22 N San Pablo AveSan Rafael, CA 94903
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1704 Lincoln Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

1704 Lincoln Ave

1704 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901

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.

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Flores Apartments
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Flores Apartments

102-110 Merrydale RdSan Rafael, CA 94903
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280-282 Linden Ln
2 Bedroom Apartments

280-282 Linden Ln

280-282 Linden LnSan Rafael, CA 94901
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20 Sirard Ln
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

20 Sirard Ln

20 Sirard LnSan 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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Merrydale Meadows
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Merrydale Meadows

163 Merrydale RdSan Rafael, CA 94903
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1736 Grand Ave
Studio Apartments

1736 Grand Ave

1736 Grand AveSan 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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1476 Lincoln
1 Bedroom Apartments

1476 Lincoln

1476 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Northgate Apartments
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Northgate Apartments

825 Las Gallinas AveSan Rafael, CA 94903
  • Utilities Included
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Park Hill
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Park Hill

1747 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Deer Valley
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Deer Valley

2500 Deer Valley RdSan Rafael, CA 94903
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Nova at Terra Linda
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Nova at Terra Linda

175 Nova Albion WaySan Rafael, CA 94903
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McInnis Park
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

McInnis Park

10-90 North AveSan Rafael, CA 94903
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Alterra
2 Bedroom Apartments

Alterra

155 Nova Albion WaySan Rafael, CA 94903
  • Utilities Included

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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Terra Linda Manor
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Terra Linda Manor

101 Nova Albion WaySan Rafael, CA 94903
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The Oak View Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Oak View Apartments

195 Nova Albion WaySan Rafael, CA 94903
  • Utilities Included
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1477-1483 Lincoln
2 Bedroom Apartments

1477-1483 Lincoln

1477-1483 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
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Deer Park Apartments
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Deer Park Apartments

99 Professional Center PkySan Rafael, CA 94903
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Merrydale Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Merrydale Apartments

11-17 Merrydale RdSan Rafael, CA 94903
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1563 Lincoln Ave
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

1563 Lincoln Ave

1563 Lincoln AveSan Rafael, CA 94901
  • Utilities Included

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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16 Pacheco Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

16 Pacheco Ave

16 Pacheco AveFairfax, CA 94930
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185-B Forrest Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

185-B Forrest Ave

185-B Forrest AveFairfax, CA 94930
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1-9 Main Ct
1 Bedroom Apartments

1-9 Main Ct

1-9 Main CtFairfax, CA 94930
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18 Sierra Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

18 Sierra Ave

18 Sierra AveSan Anselmo, CA 94960
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66 Willow Ave
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

66 Willow Ave

66 Willow AveFairfax, CA 94930
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103 Live Oaks Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

103 Live Oaks Ave

103 Live Oaks AveFairfax, CA 94930
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33-35 Maple Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

33-35 Maple Ave

33-35 Maple AveFairfax, CA 94930

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.

West San Rafael, San Rafael, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Available West San Rafael Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in the West San Rafael area of San Francisco, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Marinian Towers Apartments priced from $2,095. Park Hill has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $2,425. Here are the most affordable West San Rafael apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Marinian Towers Apartments1BR/1.0BA1BR,1BA$2,095
Park Hill1X1ARStudio,1BA$2,425
Highlands of MarinNapa (A1A)1BR,1BA$2,661
Deer ValleyPlan 1A1BR,1BA$2,829
McInnis ParkBirch1BR,1BA$2,950
Nova at Terra Linda2x12BR,1BA$3,025
Alterra2x12BR,1BA$3,100
Prospect Hill Apartments2 bedroom 2 bath2BR,2BA$3,100
Bella Vista (06/25)Two Bedroom One Bath2BR,1BA$3,295

Best Value Apartments for Rent in West San Rafael, CA

As of May 31, 2026 the best value apartment in the West San Rafael area is the $2.82 price per square foot 2 bedroom 2 bath Model at Prospect Hill Apartments in the in the Black Canyon neighborhood starting from $3,100. The second greatest value West San Rafael apartment is the Two Bedroom One Bath Model at Bella Vista (06/25) starting at $3,295 with a $3.47 price per square foot in the Santa Venetia neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for West San Rafael apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Prospect Hill Apartments2 bedroom 2 bath2BR,2BA$2.82
Bella Vista (06/25)Two Bedroom One Bath2BR,1BA$3.47
Marinian Towers Apartments2BR/1.0BA2BR,1BA$2.77
Nova at Terra Linda2x12BR,1BA$3.56
Alterra2x12BR,1BA$3.78
Deer ValleyPlan 1A1BR,1BA$4.01
McInnis ParkBirch1BR,1BA$4.23
Highlands of MarinNapa (A1A)1BR,1BA$4.09
Park Hill1X1ARStudio ,1BA$5.51

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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Real 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.

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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
West San Rafael, San Rafael, CA

Ranked #11

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

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

4.0
Pet Friendly

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Lifestyle Ratings

ApartmentHomeLiving brings you comprehensive Lifestyle Ratings of rentals in cities across the United States including West San Rafael, San Rafael, and the greater San Francisco area. Lifestyle Ratings show you the best fit for your needs and interests. This takes in many factors including rankings of the best places for convenient access to the outdoors, luxury amenities, pet-friendly features, family-friendly amenities, proximity to transit, in addition to floorplans, availablity, and pricing. Find Lifestyle Search in the filter options (above). Happy Searching!

Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap West San Rafael Apartments

How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom West San Rafael Apartment?

The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom West San Rafael Apartment is $2,095 at Marinian Towers Apartments.

What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom West San Rafael Apartment for rent?

Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in West San Rafael is starting from $2,629 at Marinian Towers 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

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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

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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

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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

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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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Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent

Written by: Robin Stewart

Apartment-hunting can be a gargantuan task. Renters have a wish list of items—some luxuries, some necessities—but finding what you seek in the right place is perhaps the most important part of the journey.

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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.

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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.

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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.