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Santa Cruz, CA Homes for Rent

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  • /105

    Starting at $2,599 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    200 Button St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Welcome home to Hidden Creek in sunny Santa Cruz, California. You will find our beautiful community centrally located just minutes away from the major freeways and walking distance to shopping centers and restaurants. We are an easy commute to Silicon Valley and major schools such as UCSC and Cabrillo College. Whether it is going downtown, relaxing at one of the sunny beaches in Santa Cruz or

    Hidden Creek Apartments

    200 Button St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /41

    Starting at $2,200 Per Month

    • Studio

    833 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    *Availability and applications can be found on our website here: stgeorgeapartmentssc .comWelcome to St. George Apartments, located at 833 Front Street in downtown Santa Cruz. Enjoy the convenience of our prime location, steps away from shops, dining, UC Santa Cruz, and more.Experience the best of downtown Santa Cruz living at St. George Apartments. Choose from our studio, one,

    St. George Apartments

    833 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /114

    Starting at $3,395 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    222 Columbia St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    LIVE STEPS FROM THE SAND! Discover a restful retreat at Oceanview Apartments, a peaceful beach-side Community located just moments from everything that Santa Cruz has to offer. Oceanview offers beautifully remodeled one and two bedroom apartment homes and is conveniently situated near scenic Santa Cruz beaches, famous surf spot, Steamer Lane, and is adjacent to the beautiful

    Oceanview

    222 Columbia St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /41

    Starting at $3,000 Per Month

    • Studio - 1 Bed

    555 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Five55 is a brand new beachside apartment community offering luxury living in the heart of Santa Cruz. We offer a collection of well-designed residences sure to please even those with the most discriminating tastes. Whether you want to host a dinner party at the outdoor kitchen and pizza ovens, catch a sunset from the rooftop deck or walk into downtown or along the beach, Five55 is the perfect

    Five55

    555 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /40

    Starting at $2,995 Per Month

    • Studio - 2 Beds

    414 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Opening in January 2026RiverRow is a new mixed-use community along the San Lorenzo River that brings modern living to the heart of Santa Cruz. Featuring 175 studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartmentsincluding affordable homesRiverRow blends contemporary and traditional design to support a diverse and vibrant downtown neighborhood. Ground-floor shops and restaurants activate the street, creating a

    River Row

    414 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /60

    Starting at $2,295 Per Month

    • Studio - 2 Beds

    630 Water St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    The Breakers offers apartments in Santa Cruz, CA with the finest amenities. Visit our website for more information.

    The Breakers

    630 Water St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /55

    Starting at $3,489 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    1240 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Immerse yourself in the views at Pacific Shores. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments for rent in beautiful Santa Cruz, CA, bring the California dream to you with garden-style elegance set adjacent to Natural Bridges Beach, Wilder Ranch, and Antonelli Pond Nature Preserve with views of the sea overlooking the Pacific Ocean in this iconic, historic city. Close to University of California Santa Cruz and the

    Pacific Shores

    1240 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /55

    Starting at $3,058 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    1010 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    1010 Pacific Apartments offers sleek urban living in the heart of Santa Cruz, just moments from the boardwalk near Highway 1 and 17. Responding specifically to your needs, sophisticated designs feature one, two and three bedroom arrangements. Homes showcase upgraded interior finishes including maple cabinets, designer flooring and countertops, culinary kitchens with Energystar Maytag appliances

    1010 Pacific Apartments

    1010 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /44

    Starting at $2,479 Per Month

    • 1 Bed

    201 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Discover modern coastal living in the heart of Santa Cruz at 201 River Street Apartments. This brand-new, 12-unit community features four one-bedroom and eight studio apartments designed for comfort, style, and convenience. Each apartment offers an open-concept layout that maximizes every square foot, with sleek finishes, expansive windows that fill the space with natural light, and private

    201 River Street Apartments

    201 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /24

    Starting at $2,802

    Total Monthly Price

    • Studio - 2 Beds

    101 Felix St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Located just a few short blocks from downtown Santa Cruz, Cypress Point offers a superbly convenient location close to all the best the area has to offer! The nearby University of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, along with popular attractions and amazing beaches, make this location central to an abundance of educational and recreational opportunities – all within a beautifully maintained

    Cypress Point

    101 Felix St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /15

    Starting at $3,150 Per Month

    • 1 Bed

    1804 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    18 unit, secure access building located on Santa Cruz's west side. Conveniently located near UC Santa Cruz campus, downtown, and boardwalk. We have cozy Jr. One Bedroom units as well as Grand Loft one bedroom unit. Please inquire for more details.

    1804 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /19

    Starting at $3,450 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    3141-3151 Thurber Ln, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

    Welcome to Thurber Apartments, a beautifully maintained community offering renovated townhome-style living in Santa Cruz. Our spacious two-bedroom residences feature updated interiors with new appliances, luxury vinyl flooring, fresh paint throughout, and bright two-story floor plans designed for comfortable everyday living. Residents enjoy thoughtfully landscaped grounds with an open lawn area,

    Thurber Apartments

    3141-3151 Thurber Ln, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
  • /31

    Starting at $4,175 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    801 Nobel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Townhome Living in Upper West Side – the best of Santa Cruz! •Westmont Place is a charming, established residential neighborhood with gorgeous tree-lined streets •A tranquil setting - adjacent to UCSC and University Terrace Park - close enough to enjoy all the downtown amenities but just far enough from the hustle and bustle•Our community offers quaint 2-story townhomes with two

    Westmont Townhomes

    801 Nobel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /31

    Starting at $2,959 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    525 Laurel St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    We offer Self-Guided Tours by Appointment Only. Experience the essence of Santa Cruz living at Chestnut Street apartments in Santa Cruz, CA. Choose from our selection of one- and two-bedroom apartment homes for rent including multilevel, townhome-style floor plans. Our charming, seaside-inspired exteriors welcome you home to comfortable residences that feature efficient layouts and ample storage

    Chestnut Street

    525 Laurel St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /30

    Starting at $3,545

    Total Monthly Price

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    363 Western Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Live above the rest at The Hilltop Apartments! You'll find our beautiful apartment community located at the top of the hill on Western Drive on the westside area of Santa Cruz. We are just 1.4 miles from UCSC, on the bus line and just a few minutes to gorgeous beaches and the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. Many of our apartment homes feature scenic views of the pacific ocean, canyons and enchanting

    The Hilltop

    363 Western Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /35

    Starting at $2,706 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    2500 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

    Welcome to Emerald Bay Apartments in well located mid-county Santa Cruz California offering One, Two and Three-Bedroom apartment homes. Section 8 voucher accepted. Non-smoking community. Well maintained and professionally managed. APARTMENT AMENITIESDouble-pane energy efficient windowsCeiling fans, Microwave ovenUtilities included: water, garbage, custom window

    Emerald Bay Apartments

    2500 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
  • /3

    Starting at $1,860 Per Month

    • Studio

    1344 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    The Palomar Hotel in downtown Santa Cruz was designed by the prominent early 20th century architect William Henry Weeks. Built in 1929 then remodeled in 1985 and 1990, the building represents a commitment to quality construction and details of design that are rare today. The Palomar was the pride of the Santa Cruz Community when built and it remains a beautiful and historic downtown landmark.

    The Palomar Inn

    1344 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /12

    Starting at $3,250 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    306 Cliff St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    These recently remodeled, sunny corner apartments are available now. Choose to end the lease on June 15th, 2027 or August 31st, 2027. Leases are renewable. The building is a four minute walk to the Main Beach, a ten-minute walk downtown and a six-minute walk to the #19 bus to UCSC!One cat allowed.* Comes with your own hammock and chairs outside on the balcony* The gated building

    306 Cliff St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /20

    $6,650 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,900 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    701 Bay St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Property Id: 2738542 Available now! Open House: Saturday, July 25, 2026 12:00p-2:00p We are seeking tenants who are able to begin their lease with an August move-in. If you're interested, please send a brief introduction about your group, desired move-in date, and whether everyone has reviewed the rental requirements. Located on Santa Cruz's Westside, this 4-bedroom,

    701 Bay St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /8

    $3,600 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • House for Rent

    918 N Branciforte Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Property Id: 2708991 2 bedroom rental house on top of a commercial property in downtown Santa Cruz that has a balcony and has stair access to get to it.

    918 N Branciforte Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /20

    $4,995 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,774 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    812 Isbel Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    This well-maintained traditional multi-story home offers **1,774 square feet** of thoughtfully designed living space in a peaceful Santa Cruz neighborhood. Freshly painted siding, shingle roofing, and manicured landscaping create a welcoming first impression, while two balconies provide inviting outdoor spaces to relax and enjoy the surrounding views.Inside, wood flooring flows throughout

    812 Isbel Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /20

    $7,085

    Total Monthly Price

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,421 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    3665 Tiffani Ct Unit SI ID1573481P, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

    The advertised rate of $7,086/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of November 7, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can

    3665 Tiffani Ct Unit SI ID1573481P, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
  • /8

    $4,200 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 931 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    228 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Property Id: 63743 Beautiful furnished 2 Bed/2 Bath condo in gated Mariner’s Cove community. Bright & sunny furnished end-unit features large capacity washer/dryer, hardwood/travertine floors, updated bathrooms, patio & BBQ. Unit faces heated pool & spa. One parking space in attached garage shared with other tenants included. Plenty of additional parking. Within walking distance to

    228 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /19

    $2,800

    Total Monthly Price

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

    2135 Felt St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    2135 Felt St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /2

    $1,200

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,000 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    228 John St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Therew is a room in a house available starting August 1st. The lease is month to month, with preferably a minimum of 6 months.utilities not included and tend to be an additional ~180 for water, electricity, garbage, and wifi. Current occupants are one female and one male, both students in the last year at UCSC. Looking for someone who is clean and conscientious of the shared spaces. There is a

    228 John St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /10

    $3,500

    Total Monthly Price

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 880 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    320 Myrtle St Unit A, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Available immediately.Bright and private large 1-bedroom freestanding ADU with a bonus loft, ideal for guests, a home office, or additional storage. Recently gut renovated, the home features a spacious, fully enclosed private yard with outdoor shower just off the bedroom.Located on a shared property with a duplex at the front, residents also enjoy access to a large communal garden

    320 Myrtle St Unit A, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /8

    $1,150

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,100 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    155 Torrey Pine Terrace Unit Torrey larger DOUBLE, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    FOR RENT DOUBLE (shared bedroom)Desirable location upper West side Santa Cruz!Clean, natural lighting, relax in patio or warm up by cozy fireplace. Two bedroom, one and a half bath condo. One block from bus stop. Mouth of UC Santa Cruz. Great area!

    155 Torrey Pine Terrace Unit Torrey larger DOUBLE, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /24

    $4,150

    Total Monthly Price

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

    3293 Roland Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Wake up, grab your board, and be in the water in minutes this cute, beach-style home sits in one of Santa Cruz's favorite surf neighborhoods. Owned and lovingly maintained by the original owners, it's been extensively updated over the years and is move-in ready for a long-term tenant.Recent Updates:* Two fully renovated bathrooms* New LVP flooring throughout; new carpet in

    3293 Roland Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /7

    $2,900

    Total Monthly Price

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • 502 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    135 Camino Del Sol Unit 135A, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

    Midtown/Eastside Santa Cruz, ocean view studio (500 sq ft), cul de sac in peaceful neighborhood near greenbelt and trails. Bedroom nook, full kitchen, washer/dryer, utilities included. No pets.

    135 Camino Del Sol Unit 135A, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
  • /15

    $4,850

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 850 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    1415 Seabright Ave Unit B, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Unfurnished house with big backyard, Open House : Sep 1st 10 -12 pmStroll to restaurants, shops, and the beach from this stunning duplex featuring two 2BR/2BA single-story homes in one of the sunniest, hippest, and most sought after beach neighborhoods. Units benefit from remarkably high-end finishes, generous bedroom sizes, extra large closets, a primary en-suite bathroom, attached oversized

    1415 Seabright Ave Unit B, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /100

    $9,800 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,800 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    122 2nd Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Beach Bliss Views Serenaded by Ocean Waves from Deck, Loft BR, Living/Dining Rooms, and front yard of this Darling Vintage Chic 1,800 sf. Beach Cottage + additional 331 sf. Ocean View Deck w/BBQ Grill and Alfresco white resin wicker seating for 10. Private Indoor Laundry Room w/Samsung W/D; FREE On Street Parking-No Permit Needed. Upstairs Sleeping w/7 Beds for 8-9 persons, w/3 Twin Beds in 3rd

    Mary Faria Faria Family Co.

    122 2nd Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /21

    $6,200 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 1,450 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    217 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Property Id: 908087 This Beautiful renovated home is just a block from the beach. Enjoy the large spacious backyard with 2 gently used clean sheds to store and keep your larger belongings safe. There’s always plenty of parking.

    217 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /64

    $8,800 Per Month

    • 5 Beds
    • 4.5 Baths
    • 2,775 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    41 S Circle Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    For Lease! Tucked behind the gates of the exclusive Pasatiempo Estates, this refined Mediterranean style residence sits beautifully on a small cul de sac with views of the Monterey Bay and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk! Offering a rare ground floor primary, this property has 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths on the main level & a full 2 bedroom, 2 bath + living space on the lower floor. Set within one of

    Frank De Bernardo eXp Realty of Northern California, Inc.

    41 S Circle Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /15

    $3,345 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 900 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    508 Caledonia St Unit 4, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Welcome home to this charming second floor apartment nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz's highly sought after Seabright neighborhood. Filled with natural light and overlooking the surrounding neighborhood, this inviting two bedroom, one bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal charm.The spacious living area provides a warm and welcoming place to relax,

    508 Caledonia St Unit 4, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /14

    $5,450 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,829 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1742 Grey Seal Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Located in Santa Cruz, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 1855 sq ft of living space with versatile flooring including carpet, hardwood, laminate, and tile. The kitchen is equipped with a gas cooktop, electric oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator, providing functional meal preparation areas. Enjoy cozy gas-burning fireplace in the living room and central forced air gas heating for

    Jim Wilder Wilder Associates

    1742 Grey Seal Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /36

    $5,895 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,000 Sq Ft
    • Live Oak Beauty

    2436 Paul Minnie Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Looking for the perfect Santa Cruz spot? Jump on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to move into a highly desirable, commuter-friendly neighborhood right close to everything SC has to offer!This immaculate 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home has a warm, welcoming vibe that you’ll feel the second you walk in.- Massive rooms and a beautifully spacious, relaxing yard built for unwinding.- A

    2436 Paul Minnie Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
  • /8

    $3,600 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,025 Sq Ft
    • Apartment for Rent

    164 Pryce St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Located in Santa Cruz, this home offers 2 bedrooms and 1 full bathroom within 1,025 square feet. The kitchen is equipped with a gas cooktop, electric oven, dishwasher, refrigerator, and a pantry for storage. Laminate flooring extends throughout the living spaces. Heating is provided by central forced air gas. There is a designated dining area adjacent to the kitchen, and laundryroom includes a

    Jim Wilder Wilder Associates

    164 Pryce St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /20

    $3,200 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • Location, location, location! This gated community is 5 minutes walking distance to downtown Sant...

    250 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    2br / 1ba top floor Condo in a gated community. Hard wood flooring throughout the unit, newer stainless-steel appliances including the dishwasher, range, fresh paint. The unit has a spacious open floor plan with kitchen, dining room, and living room with small private deck. This is a top floor unit, with communal roof top deck. Furry friends welcomed. Tenant is responsible for PG&E. Owner will

    250 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /13

    $7,400 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,220 Sq Ft
    • New Remodel 3/2 condo walk to UCSC.

    124 Torrey Pine Terrace, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    Walking distance to UC (corner of Bay and Nobel). Whole unit recently remodeled. Close to shopping, parks, tennis courts, basketball court and bus stop, washer and dryer in unit (non-coin-op). Dishwasher, frig, off street parking including a carport. 2 patios. Fireplace in the living room. Desirable end unit. Clean and bright. Last months rent and deposit (equal to one month's rent) to reserve.

    124 Torrey Pine Terrace, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
  • /21

    $2,950 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 733 Sq Ft
    • Beautiful 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom 2 Story Condo in Downtown Santa Cruz

    156 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

    This ground floor, bi-level condo is located in walking distance to the boardwalk, downtown, and Wharf. There is a good-sized bedroom located upstairs with an adjoining bathroom. The unit has a washer/dryer in the unit and tons of storage: the bathroom has a large closet, there is a linen closet in the hallway as well as additional storage above the side-by-side Washer/Dryer, which are

    156 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

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Why Live in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz combines world-class surfing at Steamer Lane with the historic Beach Boardwalk amusement park along its stunning coastline. Nature lovers will find monarch butterflies migrating through Natural Bridges State Park and ancient redwoods towering in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. The Santa Cruz Wharf extends into Monterey Bay where sea lions bask in the sun, while downtown Pacific Avenue buzzes with local shops and street performers. The University of California Santa Cruz campus sits nestled among redwood forests, contributing to the city's educational atmosphere.

The Santa Cruz housing market includes a range of options across distinct neighborhoods. The median price for single-family homes is $1,510,000, with specific areas commanding different prices. Downtown Santa Cruz has a median single-family home price of $1,417,500, while Westlake homes reach $1,875,000. Live Oak presents more moderate options at $1,325,000, and Pasatiempo homes typically sell for $1,800,000. Twin Lakes properties have a median price of $1,697,000. Condominiums start at a median price of $575,000 for one bedroom units and $769,000 for two bedrooms. Townhomes in Santa Cruz have a median price of $1,080,000.

Property taxes in Santa Cruz County maintain a 0.62% effective rate. California applies a 1.00% state income tax rate for yearly salaries of $41,901, along with a combined sales tax rate of 8.80%. The city's educational system includes several highly rated schools. Santa Cruz High School and Harbor High School both earn A ratings, while private institutions like Gateway School and Kirby School receive A+ ratings. The Mediterranean climate keeps temperatures mild year-round, with summer highs between 65-75°F and winter temperatures from 45-60°F. Commuters can reach San Francisco in approximately 1.5 hours via Highway 17 and 280, though traffic may impact travel times.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Santa Cruz, CA?
The median rent for a home in Santa Cruz, CA is $3,995 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 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 Santa Cruz, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz, 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.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Santa Cruz, CA?
In Santa Cruz, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 29.0, 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 Santa Cruz, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Santa Cruz, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Live Oak, Downtown Santa Cruz, Lighthouse-The Circles, Western Drive-Nobel and Banana Belt, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
81
Median Rent
$3,995
Median Single Family Home Rent
$4,375
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,898
Median Condo Rent
$3,498
How to Rent a Home