Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a townhouse in San Mateo, CA?
The median rent for a townhouse in San Mateo, CA is $4,350 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 San Mateo, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in San Mateo, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $176,600 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 $4,415 per month in San Mateo, CA, renters typically need to show $13,245 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 San Mateo, CA?
In San Mateo, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 32.1, 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.
Rental Home Trends in San Mateo, CA
There are currently 1 townhouses available for rent in San Mateo, CA. The median rent is $4,350 per month, with 2-bedroom townhouses renting at $3,950, 3-bedroom townhouses at $5,800 and 4-bedroom townhouses at $6,850.
Number of Townhouses for Rent
1
Median Townhouse Rent
$4,350
Median 2 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$3,950
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$5,800
Median 4 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$6,850