Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz, CA (381 Rentals)

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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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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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317 Spruce St
2 Bedroom Apartments

317 Spruce St

317 Spruce StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
  • Utilities Included
  • Smoke Free

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.

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307-309 Raymond St
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

307-309 Raymond St

307-309 Raymond StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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Seabright Apartments
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Seabright Apartments

116 Seabright AveSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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Copa Cabanas
Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments

Copa Cabanas

1112 Mission StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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755 14th Ave
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

755 14th Ave

755 14th AveSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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Shearwater Apartments
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Shearwater Apartments

2333 Portola DrSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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240 River Street
Studio Apartments

240 River Street

232-240 River StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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Seaside Studios
Studio Apartments

Seaside Studios

108 2nd StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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Coronado Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Coronado Apartments

133 Morrissey BlvdSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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803 Laurel St
2 Bedroom Apartments

803 Laurel St

803 Laurel StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
  • Utilities Included

How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

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Live Oak Crossing
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Live Oak Crossing

1135 17th AveSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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Garden Street
2 Bedroom Apartments

Garden Street

3711-3715 Garden St ExtSanta Cruz, CA 95062
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Chestnut Street
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Chestnut Street

143 Chestnut StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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816 Riverside Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

816 Riverside Ave

816 Riverside AveSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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Clay Residences
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Clay Residences

132 Clay StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
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123 Pearl St
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

123 Pearl St

123 Pearl StSanta Cruz, CA 95060
Showing Results 1-50, Page 1 of 8

Santa Cruz, CA Local Guide

Photo of Justin Habersaat - Editing Staff
Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

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Santa Cruz Overview

Known across the globe for its famed redwood trees and sweeping ocean views, Santa Cruz is a darling city of the California scene. Home to plenty of historic hot spots as well as an inviting downtown mixture of nightlife and retail shopping, this west coast destination should be on the 'must-consider' list for anyone seriously considering a move to Cali.

What is the history of Santa Cruz?

By 1847 the city had established a basic wharf as well as a black smithery, and California Powder Works called the area home through much of the Civil War. Steadily growing in popularity over the years thanks to its impressively mild climate, Santa Cruz became a bedstone of progressive and liberal politics throughout the 1970s. Today, this thriving west coast epicenter continues to draw a large mix of young and older residents, with a current city population of just over 60K.

How is the weather in Santa Cruz?

California weather doesn't get much better than life in a Santa Cruz apartment. Sunny, warm summers are the norm, with winters generally mild and requiring only a light jacket. Autumn and spring are likewise spectacular, with cool oceanic breezes and plenty of sunshine.

How do I get around town?

Santa Cruz Metro Transit provides plenty of bus lines for locals, and Greyhound also has a station in the city for longer trips. Amtrak likewise can be found with ease, and while many living in Santa Cruz rentals rely on a personal auto for most typical travel needs, bicycling and even skateboarding are both hugely popular as well. Trendy semi-electric tourist trains can also be found near the boardwalk district, and the San Jose International Airport is about half an hour drive away.

What is the Santa Cruz commute like?

State Route 17 and 1 are both primary roadways in and around Santa Cruz, with the aptly-titled Ocean Street acting as a default main drag through the city center. Those working in the downtown region will have little trouble traversing the city on most days, although those commuting from Santa Cruz apartments to the job markets of San Francisco or San Jose may have to deal with that notorious California traffic on most days.

What are the local media outlets?

Print news is dominated by the 'Santa Cruz Sentinel', while the events weekly 'Good Times' covers much of the arts and entertainment options in the city. Broadcast television is wide reaching as well, with local hubs such as KAAP and KION both popular in their programming. Radio is a pleasing mix of classic rock, modern pop and the heavier end of the spectrum thanks to the infamous KPIG 107.5 FM.

Why live in Santa Cruz, CA?

Why in the world not? Easily one of the most in-demand locales of the entire west coast, life in a Santa Cruz apartment for rent is about as good as it gets. Flush with area schools and plenty of employers such as Plantronics, this forward-thinking and environmentally-conscious hotspot is a fantastic place to call home.

What Santa Cruz landmarks should I see?

The local redwood forest is simply a must-see, and nature lovers will also undoubtedly want to stroll among the floral glory at the UCSC Arboretum. The Looff Rollercoaster is a visual and historic high point of the boardwalk, while the Golden Gate Villa hallmarks the city architecture flourishes.

What is there to do around Santa Cruz?

Spend an afternoon seaside at the boardwalk, trying your luck at games of chance or feasting on fried dough, an easy commute from most apartments in Santa Cruz. The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is an excellent spot to stroll and contemplate, while the famous Santa Cruz Skatepark often draws big name athletes on the regular.

Any annual festivals or Santa Cruz events to know?

Santa Cruz is home to a number of yearly events, including the popular Wharf to Wharf Race, which has been ongoing for over three decades. The Santa Cruz Film Festival is always a star-studded affair, and Shakespear in the Park is a constant summer appearance.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

Visit Alcatraz and other famous hot spots with a trip to San Francisco, located about 90 minutes from the city, or spend a long weekend camping and exploring much of inland California. Of course, with fishing and boating right at your fingertips, a stay-cation is always a winning option as well for those calling Santa Cruz apartments home.

Where is the best place to move in Santa Cruz?

From the sweeping ocean views of the historic boardwalk region to the bustle of the retail center, Santa Cruz apartments for rent are as varied as the individuals that make up the ever-growing population. Start your search for that next great California rental in your life today! 

Best Local Schools in
Santa Cruz, CA

School data provided by Great Schools

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Getting Around Santa Cruz, CA

Walk Score®

81 / 100

Very Walkable

Most errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

93 / 100

Biker's Paradise

Daily errands can be accomplished on a bike

Transit Score®

36 / 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 Santa Cruz

How much are Studio apartments in Santa Cruz?

There are currently 58 Studio Apartments in Santa Cruz with rent ranges from $1,750 to $4,020 with an average price of $2,783.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Santa Cruz Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Santa Cruz ranges from $2,400 to $5,095 with an average monthly rent of $3,401.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Santa Cruz cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Santa Cruz range from $2,900 to $6,100. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $4,838.

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.

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Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

Written by: Cheryl Bowman

A fantastic way to save money and enjoy a built-in community is to share an apartment. However, a bad roommate situation can turn your dream rental into a nightmare.

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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Written by: Marie Brown

You’ve scrolled through countless listings, walked through a blur of rentals, and finally found what feels like the one. The pictures? Fantastic. The neighborhood seems just right.

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Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting an apartment or house isn’t just about looking through online ads, choosing a few apartments or homes you want to tour, filling out an application, and putting down a deposit. Those things are all necessary and important.

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The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters

Written by: Bobbi Jackson

If you’re looking to relocate right now, a popular solution that may best fit your current rental needs is a short-term lease.