
Cheap Apartments for Rent in the Waterfront Neighborhood of Santa Barbara, CA from $1,700 (36 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in the Waterfront area of Santa Barbara.

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.
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.

Prime 8-Unit Apartment Building in West Beach
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.
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.
Waterfront, Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Waterfront?
Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
---|---|---|---|
Waterfront Studio Apartments | $2,795 | $2,795 | $2,795 |
Waterfront 1 Bedroom Apartments | $4,641 | $4,050 | $5,500 |
Waterfront 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,910 | $3,395 | $4,995 |
Waterfront 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,750 | $4,750 | $4,750 |
Browse Apartments in this Neighborhood
There are currently 36 rentals with your search options within a 2 mile radius of the Waterfront Neighborhood of Santa Barbara, CA.
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Waterfront, Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide
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Cheapest Available Waterfront Apartments for Rent
 Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
---|---|---|---|
201 Ladera St | 2/1.5 | 2BR,1BA | $3,395 |
Sea Cliff Apartments | 1x1 - Bldg 80 - 792 SF | 1BR,1BA | $3,900 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Waterfront, CA
As of October 21, 2025 the best value apartment in the Waterfront area is the $4.92 price per square foot 1x1 - Bldg 80 - 792 SF Model at Sea Cliff Apartments in the in the Waterfront neighborhood starting from $3,900. The second greatest value Waterfront apartment is the 3/2 Model at 201 Ladera St starting at $4,395 with a $87.90 price per square foot in the Waterfront neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Waterfront apartments based on price per square foot:
Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
---|---|---|---|
Sea Cliff Apartments | 1x1 - Bldg 80 - 792 SF | 1BR,1BA | $4.92 |
201 Ladera St | 3/2 | 3BR,2BA | $87.90 |
Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know
From the lounge to the laundry room, understand your rights and responsibilities in shared apartment spaces. Get tips on pet rules, noise, and security.
Read ArticleDon'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 ArticleQuick Rent Budget Calculator
How much rent can you afford?
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Pet Friendly LifestyleWaterfront, Santa Barbara, CA
Ranked #26
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
2.5Pet Friendly
Getting Around the Waterfront Neighborhood in Santa Barbara, CA
Walk Score®
56 / 100
Somewhat Walkable
Some errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
77 / 100
Very Bikeable
Biking is convenient for most trips
Transit Score®
31 / 100
Some Transit
A few nearby public transportation options
What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?
- Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
- Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
- Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Waterfront Apartments
What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom Waterfront Apartment for rent?
Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in Waterfront is starting from $3,395 at 201 Ladera St.
Expert Rental Resources
Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips
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.

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!

The Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist: A Guide for Renters
Written by: Trey Huguley
The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in.

Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
For many people, obstacles can arise during the rental application process for a variety of issues.