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Kensington, CA Homes for Rent

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  • /20

    $5,300 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,377 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    257 Trinity Ave, Kensington, CA 94708

    AVAILABLE NOW! Panoramic View 3 Bed 2 Bath 2 Parking in Kensington w/Golden Gate, SF Bay, Mt. Tam Showing by appointment only. Due to the volume of inquiries, no phone calls please. Please send us message by clicking on "Request a tour" or "Check Availability" or "Email" with your credit score and email address, we will contact you to schedule an appointment. Check out our 3D

    257 Trinity Ave, Kensington, CA 94708
  • /12

    $2,395 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 762 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    369 Colusa Ave, Kensington, CA 94707

    Great Kensington one bedroom near Kensington Circle, Kensington Circus Pub, Farmer's Market, Semifreddis, Benchmark Pizzeria and also Berkeley/Solano Ave. Award-winning Kensington elementary school, small-town feel; not far from shopping, hiking trails, Tilden Park, UC Berkeley, downtown Oakland, San Francisco and BART.1 Bed1 BathSpacious living room/dining roomHardwood

    369 Colusa Ave, Kensington, CA 94707

Why Live in Kensington

Kensington, CA, a serene enclave in the Berkeley Hills of Contra Costa County, is known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere. Located approximately 12 miles from Oakland and just under 20 miles from San Francisco, this primarily residential area offers a variety of home styles, from 1920s Tudors and Spanish Revivals to contemporary designs. Homes here are spacious, averaging nearly 2,000 square feet, and are neatly arranged on small lots. Kensington Hilltop Elementary and El Cerrito High are highly rated schools within the West Contra Costa Unified School District, providing quality education options for families. The community is active, with residents frequently enjoying the nearby 740-acre Tilden Nature Area, which features over 10 miles of trails, and the 11-acre Blake Garden. Arlington Avenue serves as the main commercial hub, featuring local favorites like Raxakoul Coffee & Cheese and Inn Kensington Restaurant. Public transportation is accessible via several AC Transit bus stops, and drivers can easily reach Oakland and San Francisco via Interstate 80. The Kensington Community Council fosters a strong sense of community through events like the annual movie night at Kensington Park and a weekly farmers market on Colusa Avenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Kensington, CA?
The median rent for a home in Kensington, CA is $3,847 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of September 2026, townhouses tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Kensington, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Kensington, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $153,880 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 $3,847 per month in Kensington, CA, renters typically need to show $11,541 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 Kensington, CA?
In Kensington, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 36.2, 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 Kensington, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Kensington, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Solano Hill, West Berkeley, North Berkeley, Richmond Annex and Downtown Berkeley, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
2
Median Rent
$3,847
Median Single Family Home Rent
$5,700
Median Townhouse Rent
$5,300
How to Rent a Home