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Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz, CA

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River Row - Photo 1 of 1
Rent special

19h ago

9.1

Excellent

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River Row

444 Front St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Balcony

Studio–2 beds

1–2 baths

$2,995–$7,500

Apartment for rent

Downtown apartments with rooftop deck & riverwalk

Located in Downtown Santa Cruz, these apartments feature hardwood floors, in-unit laundry, walk-in closets, and balconies or patios. The community includes a rooftop deck, fitness center, co-working spaces, garage parking, and direct riverwalk access - near the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and hundreds of restaurants within walking distance.

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Chestnut Street - Photo 1 of 1

10h ago

9.4

Excellent

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Verified

Chestnut Street

143 Chestnut St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Balcony | Central heat | Hardwood floor

1–2 beds

1–2 baths

$2,937–$4,249

Apartment for rent

Pet-friendly 1-2 BR apartments near Santa Cruz Beach

Set in Santa Cruz's Westside, these seaside-inspired apartments include 1-2 bedroom townhome-style layouts with private patios or balconies, hardwood floors, and ample storage. The community features two enclosed dog parks, barbecue areas, and assigned parking - minutes from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and downtown with easy access to highways 1, 9, and 17.

Summary of resident reviews

Tenants at Chestnut Street praise responsive management, particularly Daniela for her helpful communication and Carlos for reliable maintenance. Many appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, proximity to beach/UCSC, and feeling safe. The apartments are described as beautiful and homey, ideal for students and families alike.

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Hidden Creek Apartments - Photo 1 of 1

13h ago

9.3

Excellent

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Hidden Creek Apartments

200 Button St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Garage parking | On-site laundry | Swimming pool

1–2 beds

1 bath

$2,000–$3,875

Apartment for rent

Pet-friendly Eastside apartments with pool & BBQ

Set in Santa Cruz's Eastside, these apartments feature luxury vinyl plank flooring, vaulted ceilings, stainless steel appliances, and private balconies. The community includes a pool, playground, BBQ area, garage parking, and on-site management - a good fit for pet owners with nearby dog parks and pet services.

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1 Berkeley Ct - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

1 Berkeley Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher

3 beds

2.5 baths

$4,500

House for rent

2436 Paul Minnie Ave - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

2436 Paul Minnie Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher

4 beds

2.5 baths

$5,895

House for rent

812 Isbel Ct - Photo 1 of 1
3D tour

1d ago

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Verified

812 Isbel Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Hardwood floor

3 beds

2.5 baths

$4,995

House for rent

Available Jul 22

Find the right neighborhood for you

901 River St - Photo 1 of 1

23h ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

A Light-Filled Home with Room to Work in the Heart of Santa Cruz

901 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | On-site laundry

1 bed

1.5 baths

$2,495

House for rent

Mixed-use 1-bed house with commercial space

Set in Santa Cruz, CA, this unique 1-bed, 1.5-bath house offers flexible leasing with 995 sqft residential space plus 595 sqft commercial storefront. The 1,590 sqft property features abundant natural light, private garage/workshop, and back deck access. Located on active River Street with easy access to downtown, Highway 9, and Highway 17 - a fit for entrepreneurs and remote workers.

Breakwater Apartments - Photo 1 of 1

27m ago

8.1

Very good

Breakwater Apartments

1630 Merrill St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry

1–3 beds

1–2 baths

$2,931–$4,744

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 1

Pet-friendly coastal apartments near UCSC & beach

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, these coastal apartments offer 1-3 bedroom layouts and townhomes with stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring, in-unit washer/dryer, and private balconies or patios. The community features a heated outdoor pool, fitness center, and beach access steps away, near UCSC and Santa Cruz Harbor - a good fit for pet owners with nearby grooming services, pet stores, and Chanticleer Dog Park within a mile.

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San Lorenzo Apartments - Photo 1 of 1

3h ago

8.2

Very good

San Lorenzo Apartments

120 San Lorenzo Blvd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Garage parking | On-site laundry | Balcony

Studio–2 beds

1 bath

$1,925–$3,615

Apartment for rent

Pet-friendly apartments with pool near Santa Cruz

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, these pet-friendly apartments feature spacious open floor plans, walk-in closets, balconies, and dishwashers. The community includes garage parking, a landscaped courtyard, on-site laundry, and 24-hour emergency maintenance - near the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and downtown dining.

Summary of resident reviews

San Lorenzo Apartments residents praise the welcoming staff, pet-friendly amenities including hot tub, pool, gym, playground, dog park, and pickle ball court. Many appreciate the prime location near beach, downtown, and shopping within walking distance. Tenants highlight responsive maintenance, clean grounds, and friendly neighbors. The management team receives consistent praise for professionalism and care. Some note minor concerns about parking lot privacy during tourist season and occasional noise from San Lorenzo Blvd, though most find the community generally quiet.

803 Laurel St #8 - Photo 1 of 1

4h ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

803 Laurel St #8, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | On-site management | Business center

2 beds

1 bath

$2,695

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 31

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In-Unit Laundry

Dishwasher

Outdoor Space

Assigned Parking

206 Vista Prieta Ct - Photo 1 of 1

6h ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

206 Vista Prieta Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

On-site laundry | Assigned parking | Elevator

1 bed

1 bath

$2,450

Condo for rent

1005 3rd St Beach Hill Beauty - Photo 1 of 1

7h ago

8.4

Very good

1005 3rd St Beach Hill Beauty

1005 3rd St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

4 beds

1 bath

$7,100

Apartment for rent

630 Water St - Photo 1 of 1

7h ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Studio

1 bath

$2,525

$2,331

Price drop

Apartment for rent

155 Felker St #20 - Photo 1 of 1

16h ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

155 Felker St #20, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Air conditioning | Balcony | Assigned parking

1 bed

1 bath

$2,850

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 1

Pacific Shores - Photo 1 of 1

18h ago

8.6

Very good

Pacific Shores

1240 Shaffer Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Garage parking | Assigned parking | Swimming pool

1–2 beds

1–2 baths

$3,527–$4,857

Apartment for rent

Ocean view apartments near Natural Bridges Beach

Located in Santa Cruz's Westside, these 1-2 bedroom apartments sit adjacent to Natural Bridges Beach and Wilder Ranch with Pacific Ocean views. Units include high-speed internet and electric, plus a fitness center, pool, garage parking, and courtyard. Close to UC Santa Cruz and the Monarch Butterfly Trail - a good fit for remote workers and pet owners.

Summary of resident reviews

Pacific Shores residents praise helpful staff who quickly resolve issues like lockouts and noise complaints, with a 7-day open leasing office. Many love ocean views, pool, gym, and proximity to campus/stores. Staff receives high marks for friendliness and maintenance responsiveness. However, soundproofing between floors can be problematic with noise from upstairs neighbors.

1203 Mission St - Photo 1 of 1

22h ago

9.1

Excellent

1203 Mission St

1203 Mission St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Balcony | Assigned parking

2 beds

2 baths

$4,295–$4,500

Apartment for rent

2BR/2BA above Copal with fireplace & downtown

Located in Santa Cruz's Westside, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment sits above Copal Restaurant with 1,175 square feet, vaulted ceilings, fireplace, and in-unit laundry. The building includes assigned parking and places residents steps from 205 restaurants, 60 cultural venues, and downtown - a good fit for social life and walkable dining.

Average rent

The average rent in Santa Cruz, as of August 2026, is down 3.59% compared to last month and down 3.86% year-over-year.
$3,500
decreased by4%

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411 Pennsylvania Ave - Photo 1 of 1

22h ago

8.5

Very good

411 Pennsylvania Ave

411 Pennsylvania Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Assigned parking

3 beds

2 baths

$5,200

Apartment for rent

Coastal Comfort Steps from Seabright Beach

Located in Eastside, this charming retreat offers the ideal mix of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a cozy fireplace and an open living area that seamlessly flows into a modern kitchen. The attached garage provides ample storage for surfboards and beach gear. Just moments away from Seabright, indulge in shopping, dining, and the vibrant beach scene. Embrace the laid-back Santa Cruz lifestyle and experience beach life at its finest!

140 Spaten Way - Photo 1 of 1

22h ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | On-site laundry

3 beds

2 baths

$4,800

House for rent

Available Sep 1

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RT - Photo 1 of 1

23h ago

8.9

Very good

RT

101 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry | Elevator

1–2 beds

1 bath

$3,100–$3,899

Apartment for rent

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment with balcony

Located in Downtown Santa Cruz, this apartment features a private balcony, new vinyl plank flooring, and a living room. Utilities including water, sewer, and trash are included in rent, plus onsite laundry, elevator access, and high-speed internet - near Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, numerous restaurants, and cultural venues.

2895 Capitola Rd #14 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

On-site management | Business center

2 beds

1 bath

$2,895

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 16

611 Soquel Ave #1 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | On-site management | Business center

2 beds

1 bath

$2,795

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 9

2895 Capitola Rd #17 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

On-site management | Business center

3 beds

1 bath

$3,895

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 10

116 Maple St #2 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | On-site management | Business center

1 bed

1 bath

$2,650

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 10

234 High St - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

7.7

Very good

234 High St

234 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

2 beds

1 bath

$2,950

Apartment for rent

Central Location with Easy Access to Nature & Fun

Residents of 234 High St enjoy a cozy one-bedroom apartment in a charming complex. Utilities, including garbage and water, are included for added convenience. This pet-friendly community is just minutes from UCSC and a quick walk to Mission Plaza Park, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With downtown Santa Cruz's vibrant shops and restaurants only a short stroll away, life here is all about comfort and connectivity!

121 Sylvar Street - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

9

Excellent

121 Sylvar Street

121 Sylvar St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,400

Apartment for rent

Cozy Apartment Close to It All

Nestled in Downtown Santa Cruz, this well-maintained 1-bedroom apartment combines comfort and convenience. A functional kitchen features original tile details, abundant cabinetry, and a gas stove. With easy access to shops, restaurants, UCSC, and local beaches, plus on-street permit parking and a secure bike room—this location is perfect for those seeking to enjoy vibrant community living. Experience the best of Santa Cruz right at your doorstep!

508 Caledonia St #4 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

On-site laundry | Assigned parking | Carpet

2 beds

1 bath

$3,345

$3,195

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 20

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126 Hunolt St #A - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

126 Hunolt St #A, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | On-site laundry

3 beds

2 baths

$4,395

House for rent

Available Jul 30

320 - 328 California Street - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

8.5

Very good

320 - 328 California Street

320 320 - 328 California Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Dishwasher

2 beds

1 bath

$3,300

Apartment for rent

2-bed ADU in Westside near Pacific Ave & beach

Set in Santa Cruz's Westside, this modern 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom ADU features vinyl flooring and stainless steel appliances. Located near Pacific Avenue and Mission Street with easy access to dining, grocery stores, and the beach just a short bike ride away - a good fit for social life with 203 restaurants within a mile and walkable mixed-use areas nearby.

218 Alhambra Avenue - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

8.4

Very good

218 Alhambra Avenue

218 Alhambra Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

2 beds

1 bath

$2,900

Apartment for rent

228 Everson Dr - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Westside condo for rent in Santa Cruz

2 Bed 2 Bath Condo Near Boardwalk and Pier

228 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Garage parking

2 beds

2 baths

$4,700

$4,000

Price drop

Condo for rent

Available Aug 1

308 River St Unit B11 #B11 - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

308 River St Unit B11 #B11, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Balcony

2 beds

1 bath

$3,595

$3,445

Price drop

Condo for rent

860 Prospect Hts - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

860 Prospect Hts, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

Garage parking | Outdoor space

3 beds

2 baths

$4,900

$4,600

Price drop

House for rent

147 Market St - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

9.4

Excellent

147 Market St

147 Market St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Balcony | Assigned parking

2 beds

1 bath

$3,649

Apartment for rent

Tranquil Treetop Retreat Minutes from the Coast

147 Market St offers a charming escape nestled among the trees, providing privacy and convenience just moments from Santa Cruz's stunning beaches. This pet-friendly triplex features a modern gourmet kitchen, spacious bedrooms, and a private balcony perfect for relaxation. With ample closet space and an onsite laundry facility, comfort is a priority here. Enjoy serene living with quick access to downtown delights and highways—idyllic coastal life awaits!

105 Jacobs Ln - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Eastside townhouse for rent in Santa Cruz

105 Jacobs Ln, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Dishwasher

3 beds

3.5 baths

$4,950

House for rent

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657 24th Avenue - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.3

Very good

657 24th Avenue

657 24th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Swimming pool

1 bed

1 bath

$2,595

Apartment for rent

Santa Cruz apartment near Pleasure Point beaches

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, this downstairs apartment at Granada Gardens features quartz countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and an outdoor patio with assigned parking and on-site laundry. The park-like community includes lush greenery and a swimming pool, with a bike score of 84 and close proximity to beaches and Pleasure Point.

Broadway (Rooms 1-5) - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

7.2

Very good

Broadway (Rooms 1-5)

514 Broadway, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

2 baths

$1,295–$1,695

Apartment for rent

WLNT - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.6

Very good

WLNT

317 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,450

Apartment for rent

1-bed cottage with hardwood floors near downtown

Located in Santa Cruz's Westside, this 1-bedroom cottage features hardwood floors throughout, a built-in dining nook, and generous closet space. The property includes lush landscaped gardens, shared laundry access, and utilities covered in rent. Walking distance to shops and transit with top-rated schools nearby - a good fit for remote workers with included utilities and coworking spaces within a mile.

SCZ T 231 Blackburn - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.6

Very good

SCZ T 231 Blackburn

231 Blackburn St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry

1 bed

1 bath

$2,400

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Cozy Downtown Retreat with Bonus Storage Space

Located in Westside, this updated one-bedroom home offers a prime downtown location, just a short walk to restaurants and shopping. The spacious bedroom includes a large closet and an additional storage room, perfect for bike or camping gear. The kitchen features full-sized appliances and room for dining. Enjoy included utilities and a quiet community in a charming 7-unit complex. Coin-operated laundry on-site completes this inviting urban lifestyle!

Mountain View - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.4

Very good

Mountain View

324 Mountain View Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Microwave

2 beds

1 bath

$3,690

Apartment for rent

2BR near Seabright Beach with new kitchen

Located in Santa Cruz's Eastside, this newly remodeled downstairs 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit sits just 3 minutes from Seabright Beach. Features include a brand-new kitchen with stainless steel appliances, all new flooring, modern finishes, backyard, on-site laundry, and assigned parking - great for coastal living with easy bike access to downtown.

Emerald Bay Apartments - Photo 1 of 1
Income restricted

3d ago

8.5

Very good

Emerald Bay Apartments

2500 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

On-site laundry | Controlled access | Outdoor space

2 beds

1 bath

$3,381

Apartment for rent

Remodeled 2BR apartments in Santa Cruz

Located in Santa Cruz, CA, these completely remodeled two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments feature modern kitchens, new flooring, beautiful cabinetry, and large bedrooms with linen storage closets. Units include private patios or balconies with abundant natural light, plus onsite laundry, controlled access, basketball courts, and 24-hour emergency maintenance.

Summary of resident reviews

Emerald Bay Apartments residents praise the convenient location near stores, well-maintained grounds with excellent landscaping, and professional management led by office manager Zoila. Many highlight the clean, quiet environment, large apartments, guaranteed parking, and security presence. The community is noted for ongoing improvements and attentive maintenance staff. While most reviews are positive, experiences may vary by individual unit and timing of residency.

985 30th Ave - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

8.5

Very good

985 30th Ave

985 30th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

On-site laundry | Dishwasher

2 beds

1 bath

$3,100

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Updated 2BR Retreat Just Minutes from the Beach

This charming upstairs 2-bedroom unit offers a bright, inviting atmosphere with new flooring and paint. Enjoy added privacy with no shared walls and two assigned parking spaces. Convenient shared laundry on-site makes life easier. Located just minutes from Capitola Village and its beautiful beaches, shops, and restaurants, this well-maintained rental includes water and garbage in the rent. A perfect blend of comfort and convenience awaits!

41 Grandview St #208 - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

Westside condo for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | On-site management

2 beds

2 baths

$3,495

$3,349

Price drop

Condo for rent

Available Feb 10

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531 Dufour - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

8.4

Very good

531 Dufour

531 Dufour St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

3 beds

2 baths

$6,095

Apartment for rent

Tranquil Oasis with Private Yard Near Downtown

Residents of 531 Dufour enjoy a peaceful home set in a quiet neighborhood, offering a private entry and a beautiful yard perfect for relaxation. This unique rental features a newly renovated bathroom, fresh vinyl flooring, and a custom office space for work or study. The enclosed solarium and meditation room enhance comfort, while being only two blocks from the rail/trail pathway makes commuting a breeze. Just minutes to UCSC and downtown, it's a prime spot for convenience and serenity.

204 Castillion Ter - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

Westside condo for rent in Santa Cruz

Condo for rent

1504 Bay St #7 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Newly refurbished 2BD 1 BA upstairs apartment within walking distance of UCSC bus line

1504 Bay St #7, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Air conditioning | Assigned parking

2 beds

1 bath

$3,725

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 25

Garden Lane MHP - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.5

Very good

Garden Lane MHP

692 38th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

2 beds

2 baths

$3,200

Apartment for rent

2BR mobile home near beach and park in Santa Cruz

Set in Santa Cruz, CA, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath mobile unit sits in a family neighborhood with a short walk to the beach and a large grassy park next door. The unit includes range and refrigerator, with utilities included - near Pleasure Point, Capitola Beach, and local dining options.

508 Caledonia St #1 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

On-site laundry | Assigned parking | Ceiling fan

2 beds

1 bath

$3,475

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 16

Cozy First-Floor Apartment in Seabright Neighborhood

This updated 2BR/1BA apartment features a spacious living area with charming neighborhood views and an eat-in kitchen equipped with essential appliances. Enjoy baseboard heating and easy coin-operated laundry on-site. Located just moments away from parks, shopping, and dining, this inviting unit offers comfortable living in a prime location. Cat-friendly with one reserved parking space, this home is ready for you to make it your own!

2325 7th Ave - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

2325 7th Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | On-site laundry

3 beds

2 baths

$4,295

House for rent

Available Jul 25

122 Blackburn St #1 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

122 Blackburn Street - #1

122 Blackburn St #1, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

2 beds

1 bath

$3,400

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 5

125 Dake Ave #A - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

125 Dake Ave #A, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Air conditioning | Assigned parking

2 beds

2 baths

$3,500

House for rent

Available Aug 10

Eco-Friendly Modern Retreat in Santa Cruz

Experience sophisticated living in this stunning 2021 custom-built home featuring Mediterranean style and eco-friendly design. This bright two-bedroom, two-bath beauty showcases open-concept spaces with granite countertops and hardwood floors. The luxurious spa-like bathrooms invite relaxation, while the energy-efficient amenities, including 11 solar panels and a dedicated EV charger, ensure comfort and sustainability. A perfect blend of function and elegance awaits in this sunny retreat.

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Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz
Updated: August 1, 2026

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Learn more about renting in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz is Spanish for “holy cross”, and serves as the county seat of Santa Cruz County on the coastline of Northern California. Its on the north edge of Monterey Bay and includes gorgeous beaches and historic structures that attract both surfers and tourists to the area. Spanish settlers founded the city in 1791, establishing Mission Santa Cruz. The establishment of the mission led to significant settlement growth, although the town was notorious throughout Alta, California, due to its lawlessness.

Santa Cruz was incorporated as a city in the mid-19th century. In 1907, the city raised its beach boardwalk, which helped solidify it as a tourist destination. The University of California educational system built its Santa Cruz campus in 1965, which brought college students to the city. Approximately 63,000 people live in Santa Cruz, and thousands visit the beach community every year.

The presence of the University of California Santa Cruz has a significant influence on the economy. Many neighborhoods surrounding campus cater to college students, and the university is the city's top employer. Other industries that affect the economy include agriculture, technology, and tourism.

The downtown area is known for its unique atmosphere, boasting small shops, local eateries, and nightclubs. Many performers and musicians also work the streets, while Pacific Avenue features the work of local artists on display.

This beachfront city has something for everyone, including amusement rides on the boardwalk and annual festivals.

Local insights: What it's like to live in Santa Cruz, CA

Santa Cruz, CA offers residents a blend of coastal charm and vibrant culture, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities like surfing and hiking. Many appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, highlighting the nearby beaches and local parks as key benefits of living here. The downtown area is celebrated for its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. However, some residents express concerns over the high cost of living and limited parking options, which can be frustrating for renters trying to navigate daily life. Overall, the balance of natural beauty and community engagement makes Santa Cruz a unique place to live, albeit with its challenges.

How much is the average rent in Santa Cruz, CA for 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments?

Based on Zumper's July 2026 data, one-bedroom apartments in Santa Cruz average around $2,660/month and two-bedrooms approximately $3,670/month, both relatively stable year over year.

When is the best time to look for an apartment in Santa Cruz, CA?

December offers the best rental deals in Santa Cruz, with rents running 17% lower than April's peak prices. November also provides good opportunities with the least competitive market conditions compared to the high-demand spring months of March and May.

What are the best neighborhoods to rent an apartment in Santa Cruz, CA?

Downtown Santa Cruz draws the highest renter interest at around $2,850/month for one-bedrooms, while Westside offers the largest inventory with 30% of available listings. Beach Hill and Eastside round out the top neighborhoods, all featuring excellent walkability and vibrant social scenes.

What areas of Santa Cruz, CA are best for budget-conscious renters?

Eastside offers the best value for budget-conscious renters, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around $2,240/month, running 11% below the city median. Looking at our current data, Eastside also provides a median rent of approximately $3,320 compared to Westside's $3,940.

Are there pet-friendly apartments in Santa Cruz, CA?

Based on our current listings, roughly 26% of Santa Cruz rentals are pet-friendly, with excellent options across Westside, Downtown, Beach Hill, and Eastside neighborhoods. These areas feature pet amenities like dedicated spaces, nearby dog parks, and pet waste stations.

Are utilities usually included in rent in Santa Cruz, CA?

In our current listings, utilities-included rentals are rare in Santa Cruz, showing up in under 0.1% of units. Studios lead at 0.18% of listings, while one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms each show around 0.06%.

Methodology: How we got this data

Zumper’s proprietary rental data fuels our analysis. Rent and market trends, availability, neighborhood popularity, and lifestyle scores are all calculated using real-time and 2026 rental inventory and prices.

Our Lifestyle Categories ("great for eco-living," "great for social life," "great for pet owners," etc.) are determined by set criteria, against which we score each listing and its available features. At the neighborhood level, we calculate the listing count for each category to determine which lifestyles best fit each area.

Zumper, founded in 2012, is North America’s largest privately-owned rental platform, offering over 1 million listings across the U.S. and Canada. Stay informed on the latest trends and shifts in the rental market with our monthly National Rent Report, your go-to resource for key insights into the evolving rental landscape.

Looking for apartments in Santa Cruz, CA near you?

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