If you’re living in California or considering a move to the Golden State, understanding the rental market is crucial—especially given how drastically prices can vary depending on where you choose to settle. A recent article from KTLA highlights the most and least expensive cities for renters across California, and the findings might surprise you.
The Most Expensive California Cities for Renters
It’s no secret that California is home to some of the priciest cities in the U.S. But just how steep can rent get? Here are the top contenders:
1. San Francisco
San Francisco has long held the crown for sky-high rent. Known for its tech-driven economy and iconic Golden Gate views, the city’s limited housing stock and high demand continue to push rent prices through the roof. As of early 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $3,000 per month—and it only goes up from there depending on location and amenities.
2. San Jose
Another tech hub in the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose follows closely behind. With giants like Google and Apple nearby, it’s no wonder that demand for housing remains high. Renters here face average monthly costs in the ballpark of $2,700 for a one-bedroom, and competition for units can be intense.
3. Los Angeles
From Hollywood to Santa Monica, Los Angeles offers variety—but that comes at a price. While there are pockets of affordability, the average one-bedroom rent is still hovering around $2,500. The closer you are to the beach or the action, the more you’ll pay.
The Least Expensive California Cities for Renters
But it’s not all sky-high prices. If you’re open to living away from the coasts and metro centers, there are affordable gems scattered across the state.
1. Hanford
Located in the Central Valley, Hanford is a small city with big savings. The cost of living here is about 1.6% below the national average, and housing costs are roughly 31% lower than the typical U.S. city. This makes Hanford a strong choice for renters who prioritize affordability.
2. Merced
Another Central Valley standout, Merced is home to a University of California campus and offers a charming mix of student life and small-town living. Renters benefit from a cost of living that’s 0.5% lower than the national average, with housing prices 23% cheaper than the U.S. norm.
3. El Centro
Near the Mexican border, El Centro is one of the most affordable spots in the state. Rent prices are 22% below the national average. However, it’s worth noting that utility costs in the area tend to be higher than average, which may affect your total monthly budget.
Why Are Rents So Different?
There are several reasons for the rent price disparities across California:
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Economic Hubs vs. Rural Centers: Cities like San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles are magnets for job seekers, especially in tech and entertainment. This demand drives prices up. On the other hand, cities in the Central Valley typically have more housing available and a slower pace of growth.
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Proximity to the Coast: Coastal living in California is highly coveted—and expensive. Inland cities may lack ocean views but make up for it in savings.
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Housing Supply & Demand: Areas with limited housing stock and high demand naturally see higher rents. Meanwhile, cities with room to grow can offer more competitive prices.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a renter in California, your zip code can make a massive difference to your bottom line. Whether you’re dreaming of a beachfront apartment in LA or seeking space and savings in the Central Valley, it pays to do your research.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Zillow, RentCafe, or Apartments.com to compare average rents and explore up-to-date listings. And always budget for utilities, transportation, and cost of living—not just rent alone.
Source:
KTLA. These are the most and least expensive California cities for renters.
https://ktla.com/news/california/these-are-the-most-and-least-expensive-california-cities-for-renters/