
Cheap Apartments for Rent in the San Marcos Neighborhood of Walnut Creek, CA from $1,500 (57 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in the San Marcos area of Walnut Creek.


2732 Eccleston Ave

1726 Crescent Dr

Total Monthly Price
310 N Civic Dr, Unit 418, Unit 418

Newell Vista

Creekside Terrace

Park Regency Apartments

The Grove at Walnut Creek

Avalon Walnut Ridge

101 Kinross Dr
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.

Castlewood Apartments

Four Seasons Apartments

100 Kinross Dr, Unit 15, Unit 15

Oak & Iron

Alpine Park

Walnut Hill

The Arbors

Park Place Apartments

490 N Civic Dr, Unit 108, Unit 108

Birchwood Apartments
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.

eaves Walnut Creek

The Retreat at Walnut Creek

Carmel House

Diablo Pointe Apartments

Avalon Walnut Creek

2323 San Juan Ave

The Meridian

7011 Sunne Ln, Unit SI FL3-ID1502

Flora

Kingston Place 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.

The Boulders

Vista Terrace Apartments

Shutters Apartments

Stoneridge Luxury Apartments

Total Monthly Price
Atrium Downtown

450 N Civic Dr

Carmel Pines Senior 55+

Sunnyvale Terrace Apartments

Diablo Villa Apartments

The Alterra: Beautiful One-Bedroom Apartments in the Heart of Downtown Walnut Creek
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.

Trinity Terrace Apartments

310 N Civic Dr

Main Street Terrace

101 Kinross Dr

Sandpiper Apartments

Ming Tree Apartments

490 N Civic Dr

Walnut Terrace

Walnut Creek Apartments

Casa Sierra
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.
San Marcos, Walnut Creek, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Marcos?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Marcos Studio Apartments | $2,222 | $1,800 | $3,361 |
| San Marcos 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,543 | $1,780 | $4,672 |
| San Marcos 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,121 | $2,191 | $5,118 |
| San Marcos 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,219 | $3,204 | $5,180 |
Browse Apartments in this Neighborhood
There are currently 57 rentals with your search options within a 2 mile radius of the San Marcos Neighborhood of Walnut Creek, CA.
See all Apartments in Walnut CreekExplore Walnut Creek
San Marcos, Walnut Creek, CA Local Guide
- Nearby Walnut Creek neighborhoods
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Cheapest Available San Marcos Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in the San Marcos area of San Francisco, CA is a Studio unit found at Diablo Oaks Apartments priced from $1,800. Newell Vista has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,822. Here are the most affordable San Marcos apartments for rent in San Francisco, CA:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diablo Oaks Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,800 |
| Newell Vista | ne-stu | Studio,1BA | $1,822 |
| Park Regency Apartments | The Cambridge C2 | Studio,1BA | $1,895 |
| The Grove at Walnut Creek | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,928 |
| Avalon Walnut Ridge | 510 | Studio,1BA | $1,948 |
| Castlewood Apartments | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,950 |
| Four Seasons Apartments | A - STUDIO 462 | Studio,1BA | $1,950 |
| Oak & Iron | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath B - 1100 Lincoln Ave | 1BR,1BA | $1,994 |
| Alpine Park | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,995 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA
As of April 26, 2026 the best value apartment in the San Marcos area is the $3.06 price per square foot Plan 2B Townhome + Rooftop Deck Model at Agora at South Main in the in the Downtown Walnut Creek neighborhood starting from $4,947. The second greatest value San Marcos apartment is the 2Bed/2Bath Model at Geary Road Townhomes starting at $3,825 with a $3.06 price per square foot in the Gregory Gardens neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Marcos apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agora at South Main | Plan 2B Townhome + Rooftop Deck | 2BR,2.5BA | $3.06 |
| Geary Road Townhomes | 2Bed/2Bath | 2BR,2BA | $3.06 |
| Diablo Pointe Apartments | Large Two Bedroom Split-Level | 2BR,1.5BA | $2.74 |
| Shutters Apartments | 2x2 | 2BR,2BA | $2.61 |
| Kingston Place Apartments | Cantabury | 2BR,1.5BA | $2.55 |
| Main Street Terrace | Two Bedroom | 2BR,1BA | $2.92 |
| Walnut Terrace | 1x1 Balcony | 1BR,1BA | $2.93 |
| The Meridian | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2.97 |
| Newell Vista | ne-stu | Studio ,1BA | $2.60 |
| The Arbors | 1bdrm/1bth 1st Floor | 1BR,1BA | $3.15 |
10 Hidden Costs of Renting You Should Budget for Before Signing a Lease
Avoid financial stress when renting. Learn about the 10 most common hidden costs—from pet fees to utilities—you must budget for before you sign a lease.
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 ArticleCash 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.
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.
Best Local Schools in San Marcos, Walnut Creek, CA
Indian Valley Elementary
Walnut Creek Intermediate
School data provided by Great Schools
Lifestyle Ratings
ApartmentHomeLiving brings you our detailed rental analysis called 'Lifestyle Ratings' - a comparison of rentals in areas across the United States, including Walnut Creek. Our Lifestyle Ratings help you zero-in on the perfect place to call home. This takes in many factors including searching for the best amenities, and outdoor amenities like tennis courts, apartment complexes for the kids, raising pets, transit options, and much more. These search options are in the site filters at the top of this page.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap San Marcos Apartments
What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in San Marcos?
Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in San Marcos is at Diablo Oaks Apartments listed at $1,800.
How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom San Marcos Apartment?
The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom San Marcos Apartment is $1,994 at Oak & Iron.
What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom San Marcos Apartment for rent?
Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in San Marcos is starting from $2,191 at Oak & Iron.
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
Written by: Shannon Hilson
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
Written by: Shannon Hilson
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

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.

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.