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Studio Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA

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  • /227

    Starting at $2,520 Per Month

    • Studio - 2 Beds

    6410 Schmidt Ln, El Cerrito, CA 94530

    All renderings, 3D Tours, Walkthrough Video Tours, Matterport Tours, and other multimedia materials are provided for illustrative and reference purposes only. Renderings are an artist’s conception and may not accurately represent the actual features, materials, finishes, or layout of any specific unit. Actual units may vary in detail, design, and appearance. Features, dimensions, pricing, and

    The Village at Town Center

    (341) 999-2544

    6410 Schmidt Ln, El Cerrito, CA 94530
  • /71

    Starting at $2,073 Per Month

    • Studio - 2 Beds

    11600 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, CA 94530

    Mayfair Station features luxury Studio, 1 & 2 bedroom apartment homes. At Mayfair Station, ease and convenience are integrated into every aspect of our property. Now more than ever, we understand that life is on the go. That’s why we’ve designed an efficient home base, providing access to a plethora of transit options only steps away from your front door. Strategically located near downtown El

    Mayfair Station

    (341) 444-2252

    11600 San Pablo Ave, El Cerrito, CA 94530

Why Live in El Cerrito

El Cerrito, CA, meaning "Little Hill" in Spanish, is a Bay Area city with a population of around 24,000. Originally a refuge for San Francisco residents after the 1906 earthquake, El Cerrito has evolved into a suburb known for its affordability and outdoor activities. The city is adjacent to the San Pablo Ridge, offering scenic views and proximity to open spaces. Residents enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and trail running in areas like Hillside Natural Area and Wildcat Canyon Regional Park. The city boasts 16 parks covering 175 acres, including Cerrito Vista Park, which hosts the annual 4th of July Festival. El Cerrito's midcentury-era homes include cottages, bungalows, Craftsmans, and Mediterranean styles, with many properties on the hilly east side offering views of San Francisco Bay or the Golden Gate Bridge. San Pablo Avenue is the main commercial strip, featuring a mix of chain stores and local restaurants such as Los Moles Beer Garden and New Dumpling. El Cerrito Plaza offers additional shopping options with stores like Trader Joe’s and Barnes & Noble. The West Contra Costa Unified School District serves the city, providing college and career readiness resources. Transportation is facilitated by Interstate 80, Interstate 580, and two BART stations, making commutes to Oakland or San Francisco about 30 minutes. San Francisco International Airport is approximately 25 miles away. While violent crime rates are lower than the national average, the city faces risks from wildfires and earthquakes due to its proximity to wilderness areas and the Hayward Fault.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in El Cerrito, CA?
The median rent for a home in El Cerrito, CA is $2,845 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in El Cerrito, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in El Cerrito, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $113,800 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 $2,845 per month in El Cerrito, CA, renters typically need to show $8,535 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 El Cerrito, CA?
In El Cerrito, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 35.1, 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 El Cerrito, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in El Cerrito, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include North Berkeley, West Berkeley, Downtown Berkeley, South Berkeley and Watergate, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends in El Cerrito, CA

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
2
Median Rent
$2,845
Median Single Family Home Rent
$4,150
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,850
Median Condo Rent
$2,695
How to Rent a Home