Cheap Homes for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA from $1,200 (9 Rentals)

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Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in Santa Cruz County.

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.

Cheapest Available Santa Cruz County Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in Santa Cruz County, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Copa Cabanas in the Escolona neighborhood priced from $1,602. Aptos Apartments has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,995. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Santa Cruz County apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Copa CabanasA11BR,1BA$1,602
Aptos ApartmentsStudioStudio,1BA$1,995
Seaside StudiosStudioStudio,1BA$2,035

Best Value Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA

As of January 07, 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 D Model at Baytree Apartments starting at $2,985 with a $2.90 price per square foot in the Western neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Santa Cruz County apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Clay Residences2BR-2BA Town House2BR,2BA$3.58
Baytree ApartmentsD2BR,2BA$2.90
Scotts Valley Apartments2x12BR,1BA$3.38
Landing at CapitolaPlan 12BR,2BA$3.62
514 Washington St, Unit Unit A514 Washington St3BR,1BA$3.67
538 Ocean View Ave538 Ocean View Ave2BR,1BA$3.54
Emerald Bay ApartmentsTwo Bedroom2BR,1BA$3.98
114 Park Ave, Unit 114 Park114 Park Ave2BR,1BA$4.00
714 Pine St, Unit #3714 Pine St2BR,1BA$3.89
Copa CabanasA11BR,1BA$2.86

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Cruz County

What type of rentals are currently available in Santa Cruz County?

There are currently 694 Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz County, CA with pricing that ranges from $800 to $10,000. There are also 66 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in Santa Cruz County ranging from $1,250 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 $1,250 to $12,950 with an average monthly rent of $4,574.

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 $2,995 to $10,000, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $2,500 to $5,850. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $1,400 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $7,900.

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

decorative image for How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips article

How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips

Written by: Justin Habersaat

Getting your apartment ready for the holidays can be exciting but sometimes challenging in a smaller space. Here are some modern tips to keep things festive, safe, and inviting this season.

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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.

decorative image for Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know article

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.

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How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate!