
Cheap Homes for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA from $1,200 (9 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in Santa Cruz County.


315 Cypress Ave

1 CA-1

331 Mission St
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.

515 Corcoran Ave

119 Berkshire Ave

205 Seaview Ave

316 Fair Ave
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.

318 Chestnut St
Santa Cruz County, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent a home in Santa Cruz County?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz County 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $3,532 | $2,500 | $4,950 |
| Santa Cruz County 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,524 | $1,500 | $6,495 |
| Santa Cruz County 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $6,799 | $3,950 | $10,000+ |
| Santa Cruz County 5 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $8,500 | $7,500 | $9,500 |
Browse Homes for Rent in Santa Cruz County
Explore Santa Cruz County
Cheapest Available Santa Cruz County Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in Santa Cruz County, CA is a Studio unit found at Aptos Apartments priced from $1,895. Seaside Studios in the Ocean Street neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,925. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Santa Cruz County apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aptos Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,895 |
| Seaside Studios | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,925 |
| Pacific View Courts | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,995 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA
As of February 27, 2026 the best value apartment in the Santa Cruz County area is the $3.58 price per square foot 2BR-2BA Town House Model at Clay Residences in the in the Ocean Street neighborhood starting from $4,578. The second greatest value Santa Cruz County apartment is the TH15Y Model at Wilder Townhomes starting at $4,250 with a $3.48 price per square foot in the Eastside neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Santa Cruz County apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clay Residences | 2BR-2BA Town House | 2BR,2BA | $3.58 |
| Wilder Townhomes | TH15Y | 2BR,1.5BA | $3.48 |
| Acorn Court Apartments | 2-Bedroom, 2-Bath | 2BR,2BA | $3.30 |
| 395 Lagunita Dr, Unit In-Law Apt | 395 Lagunita Dr | 1BR,1BA | $2.70 |
| Scotts Valley Apartments | 2x1 | 2BR,1BA | $3.38 |
| Landing at Capitola | Plan 1 | 2BR,2BA | $3.63 |
| Emerald Bay Apartments | Two Bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $3.98 |
| 1804 Mission St | Standard Loft | 1BR,1.5BA | $3.58 |
| Baytree Apartments | 1/1 | 1BR,1BA | $3.51 |
| Six Hundred Park Avenue | Non-Remodeled 1 bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $3.71 |
Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Cruz County
What type of rentals are currently available in Santa Cruz County?
There are currently 689 Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA with pricing that ranges from $800 to $10,000. There are also 71 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Santa Cruz County ranging from $1,200 to $12,950.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in Santa Cruz County?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in Santa Cruz County ranges from $1,200 to $12,950 with an average monthly rent of $4,661.
How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in Santa Cruz County?
For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in Santa Cruz County range from $3,000 to $10,000, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $1,500 to $6,495. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $3,950 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $4,800.
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.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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.

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.

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.

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.