
Cheap Apartments for Rent in the West San Rafael Neighborhood of San Rafael, CA from $1,800 (60 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in the West San Rafael area of San Rafael.


Marinian Towers Apartments

Bella Vista (06/25)

Prospect Hill Apartments

33 North Apartments

The Oaktops Apartments

Hammondale

San Rafael Manor

22 N San Pablo Ave

1704 Lincoln Ave
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.

Flores Apartments

Senior Housing Redevelopment Project

280-282 Linden Ln

20 Sirard Ln

1516 Lincoln Ave

Hidden Knolls Apartments

239-241 Glen Park Ave

Merrydale Meadows

4-Multifamily & Development Site

1736 Grand Ave
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.

1476 Lincoln

Northgate Apartments

21 Merrydale Apartments

The Northview Apartments

Park Hill

Marin Gardens Apartment Homes

Deer Valley

Nova at Terra Linda

McInnis Park

Alterra
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.

Terra Linda Manor

Merrydale Apartments

Lincoln Vista Apartments

The Oak View Apartments

1477-1483 Lincoln

Deer Park Apartments

Ranchitos Park Apartments

Merrydale Apartments

1563 Lincoln Ave

San Pablo Apartments
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.

16 Pacheco Ave

185-B Forrest Ave

1-9 Main Ct

1531 Sir Francis Drake Blvd

1512--1516 San Anselmo Ave

18 Sierra Ave

66 Willow Ave

1598 Sir Francis Drake Blvd

103 Live Oaks Ave

33-35 Maple Ave
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

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in West San Rafael?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| West San Rafael 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,765 | $2,095 | $3,950 |
| West San Rafael 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,461 | $2,629 | $4,750 |
| West San Rafael 3 Bedroom Apartments | $3,798 | $3,150 | $4,446 |
Browse Apartments in this Neighborhood
There are currently 60 rentals with your search options within a 2 mile radius of the West San Rafael Neighborhood of San Rafael, CA.
See all Apartments in San RafaelExplore San Rafael
West San Rafael, San Rafael, CA Local Guide
- Nearby San Rafael neighborhoods
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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 Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 1BR/1.0BA | 1BR,1BA | $2,095 |
| Park Hill | 1X1AR | Studio,1BA | $2,425 |
| Highlands of Marin | Napa (A1A) | 1BR,1BA | $2,661 |
| Deer Valley | Plan 1A | 1BR,1BA | $2,829 |
| McInnis Park | Birch | 1BR,1BA | $2,950 |
| Nova at Terra Linda | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3,025 |
| Alterra | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3,100 |
| Prospect Hill Apartments | 2 bedroom 2 bath | 2BR,2BA | $3,100 |
| Bella Vista (06/25) | Two Bedroom One Bath | 2BR,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 Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prospect Hill Apartments | 2 bedroom 2 bath | 2BR,2BA | $2.82 |
| Bella Vista (06/25) | Two Bedroom One Bath | 2BR,1BA | $3.47 |
| Marinian Towers Apartments | 2BR/1.0BA | 2BR,1BA | $2.77 |
| Nova at Terra Linda | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.56 |
| Alterra | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.78 |
| Deer Valley | Plan 1A | 1BR,1BA | $4.01 |
| McInnis Park | Birch | 1BR,1BA | $4.23 |
| Highlands of Marin | Napa (A1A) | 1BR,1BA | $4.09 |
| Park Hill | 1X1AR | Studio ,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.
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.
Pet Friendly LifestyleWest San Rafael, San Rafael, CA
Ranked #11
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
4.0Pet Friendly
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

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
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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.

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.

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

Neighborhood and Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent
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A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back
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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.