San Rafael, CA Townhome for Rent

The median rent for a townhouse in San Rafael, CA is $2,900 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, townhouses tend to be the most affordable option while condos and single-family homes are currently more expensive.

To comfortably afford the median rent in San Rafael, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $159,800 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 $3,995 per month in San Rafael, CA, renters typically need to show $11,985 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.

In San Rafael, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 26.1, 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.

The best neighborhood for renting in San Rafael, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a townhouse include Marina Bay and West Berkeley, each with its own character and price range.