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Ben Lomond, CA Home for Rent

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    $3,000

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,200 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    8787 Highway 9 Unit Main House, Ben Lomond, CA 95005

    Nestled among the towering redwoods just off CA-9, this unique mountain property offers three individually rentable units in the historic former Banana Slug Inn. Ideally located on the edge of Ben Lomond, halfway between Ben Lomond and Felton, the property provides a peaceful forest setting while remaining just minutes from local shops, dining, hiking trails, and everything the San Lorenzo Valley

    8787 Highway 9 Unit Main House, Ben Lomond, CA 95005

Why Live in Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond, California, is a small community nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, surrounded by towering redwoods and Douglas firs, just 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean. This area enjoys a sunnier microclimate compared to nearby towns like Felton and Boulder Creek, due to its position in a wide, flat valley. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do with the proximity to Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, both offering extensive hiking trails, creeks, and waterfalls. Local parks such as Highlands County Park and Ben Lomond County Park provide additional recreational options. The community features a variety of home styles, including ranch-style homes, cottages, luxurious cabins, and Traditional houses, many of which are situated in wooded surroundings. While Ben Lomond offers a more suburban feel compared to Boulder Creek, it retains a country charm that appeals to nature lovers. The area is at an increased risk of wildfires, as evidenced by the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire. Local amenities include Ben Lomond Market, Spanky’s Café, and Coffee Nine, with larger shopping and entertainment options available in downtown Santa Cruz, about 10 miles away. Students attend highly rated schools in the San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, including San Lorenzo Valley Elementary School and San Lorenzo Valley High School. State Route 9 serves as the main commuting route, connecting residents to Santa Cruz and Silicon Valley, with public transit options provided by Santa Cruz Metro bus lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Ben Lomond, CA?
The median rent for a home in Ben Lomond, CA is $4,500 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of August 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Ben Lomond, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Ben Lomond, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $180,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $4,500 per month in Ben Lomond, CA, renters typically need to show $13,500 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Ben Lomond, CA?
In Ben Lomond, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 18.3, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Ben Lomond, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Ben Lomond, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Live Oak, Western Drive-Nobel, Downtown Santa Cruz, Upper Seabright and Lighthouse-The Circles, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$4,500
Median Condo Rent
$4,500
How to Rent a Home