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Studio Apartment for Rent in Madera, CA

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    Starting at $1,050 Per Month

    • Studio

    1205 E Cleveland Ave, Madera, CA 93638

    Lakeland Apartments

    1205 E Cleveland Ave, Madera, CA 93638

Why Live in Madera

Madera, CA, is an agricultural city in the Central Valley with a population of approximately 70,000. Known for its historical roots in the timber industry, the city now thrives on almond orchards and grapevines. Madera's central location allows for easy commutes to Fresno, about 25 miles away. The city features a mix of housing styles, from Craftsman bungalows downtown to midcentury ranch-style homes and contemporary houses in new subdivisions. On the outskirts, farmhouses occupy multiacre lots. East Yosemite Avenue serves as the main downtown area, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Madera Marketplace and Bethard Square Shopping Center provide additional retail options. Dining highlights include The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar, known for its Italian cuisine and local wines. The city hosts several annual events, such as the Madera District Fair and the Downtown Madera Christmas Light Parade. Attractions include the Madera 2 Drive-In, the Madera County Historical Society museum, and the upcoming North Fork Casino. Recreational opportunities abound with over two dozen parks, including Lions Town & Country Park and Centennial Park. Madera is also a gateway to Yosemite National Park, located about 60 miles away. The city experiences severe heat in the summer and has extreme air quality risks due to highways and farming. Public transportation options include the Madera County Transportation Commission bus system and the Madera Amtrak Station.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Madera, CA?
The median rent for a home in Madera, CA is $2,434 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of August 2026, condos 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 Madera, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Madera, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $97,360 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 $2,434 per month in Madera, CA, renters typically need to show $7,302 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 Madera, CA?
In Madera, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 15.4, 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.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$2,434
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,500
Median Condo Rent
$2,000
How to Rent a Home