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Apartments for Rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA

Average rent

$3,527
increased by17%

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Great for

Social life
Wellness
Eco-living

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River Row - Photo 1 of 1
Rent special

1d 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

$3,225–$7,500

Apartment for rent

Call

2030 N Pacific Ave #338 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Downtown Santa Cruz condo for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | Balcony | Assigned parking

1 bed

1 bath

$3,800

Condo for rent

Description

Welcome to 2030 North Pacific #338, an exceptional luxury condo in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. Enjoy the ultimate in convenience with top-rated restaurants, boutique shopping, and vibrant entertainment just steps from your door, while still being moments from the areas natural beauty. World-class beaches, the scenic San Lorenzo River, and miles of hiking and biking trails are all within easy reach. This secure building offers an impressive suite of amenities, including a fully equipped fitness center, sparkling pool, and underground gated parking with elevator access

RT - Photo 1 of 1

2d 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

314 Chestnut - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.4

Very good

314 Chestnut

314 Chestnut St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

4 beds

1 bath

$5,000

Apartment for rent

ELM2 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.4

Very good

ELM2

210 Elm St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,690

Apartment for rent

318 Chestnut St #5 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Lease Pending 318 Chestnut St Apt. 5

318 Chestnut St #5, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry

1 bed

1 bath

$2,600

Apartment for rent

Available May 29

Find rentals with popular amenities

Assigned Parking

In-Unit Laundry

Elevator

Dishwasher

2030 N Pacific Ave #440 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

2030 N Pacific Ave #440, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Garage parking

3 beds

2 baths

$4,750

Apartment for rent

Chestnut Street - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

9.4

Excellent

Our team has verified this company

Verified

Chestnut Street

143 Chestnut St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Balcony | Central heat | Hardwood floor

1–2 beds

1–2 baths

$2,997–$4,709

Apartment for rent

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448 May Ave #4 - Photo 1 of 1

1h ago

Eastside townhouse for rent in Santa Cruz

448 May Ave #4, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Deck

3 beds

2 baths

$4,350

House for rent

Description

This bright and spacious 3 bedroom plus office/den and 2-bathroom home is a renter's dream come true. While a short drive to Whole Foods, Staff of Life, The Buttery, and Santa Cruz downtown, it provides fast access to all freeways should you have to commute to work. It is one of a total of four townhouse-style homes, all located off May Avenue near Market and the Branciforte Creek The home features a reversed floorplan. One large bedroom, a full bathroom with walk-in shower and the home office are located downstairs off a spacious lobby with a coat closet. Upstairs are tw

510 Lincoln St #3 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

510 Lincoln St #3, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Assigned parking | Walk-in closets

1 bed

1 bath

$3,395

House for rent

Description

Tucked away in a private setting, this beautifully renovated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom residence at 510 Lincoln Street, Apt 3 offers modern comfort, thoughtful design, and high-quality finishes throughout. Spanning approximately 726 square feet, the home features a spacious, light-filled living area that flows seamlessly into an open-concept kitchen, creating an ideal space for both relaxing and entertaining. The kitchen is fully updated with sleek Caesar stone countertops, a stainless steel gas range, refrigerator, concealed dishwasher, microwave, and a deep stainless sink

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Nearby rental good for pet owners

320 Main St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Beach HIll house for rent in Santa Cruz

House for rent

Description

Must see on Beach Hill! You'll love this charming one-story home tucked behind a triplex. It has cool period details like tongue and groove walls. Beautiful kitchen with all of the bells and whistles. Lovely landscaping and wood laminate floors throughout. There is one extra-large bedroom, two good-sized bedrooms and one that is on the smaller size, but easily fits a twin bed and smaller furniture. Generous living room with built-ins. One-and-a-half very short blocks to the main beach/wharf/Cowells, about a half-mile from downtown Santa Cruz and 3.5 miles from UCSC. Weekly

212 Everson Dr - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

212 Everson Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Swimming pool | Dishwasher

1 bed

1 bath

$2,800

Apartment for rent

Description

DO NOT DISTURB OCCUPANTS - Welcome to your new home at our beautiful one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in Santa Cruz, California! This spacious and stylish apartment boasts newly installed hardwood floors that add a touch of sophistication and warmth to the living space. The open layout of the apartment allows for plenty of natural light to flow in, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen is fully equipped with all the modern appliances you'll need to cook up a storm, and there's plenty of counter space for meal prep. The bedroom is a peaceful retreat, wi

505 Walnut Ave #B - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 15

Description

1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom $2,200 per month + Deposit ***OPEN HOUSE THIS SATURDAY, 6/13, FROM 11:00AM - 12:00PM*** PROPERTY DESCRIPTION AND HIGHLIGHTS Must See! A Great place to call home. Near downtown and 4 minutes to UCSC (1.4miles). Conveniently located near dining, entertainment, shopping and transportation. This darling apartment is nestled in a prime location close to downtown, offering the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Whether you're a professional seeking easy access to city amenities or someone who enjoys the vibrant energy of urban living, this apartme

217 Broadway #A - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

BWAY - A

217 Broadway #A, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,400

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 1

Description

Upstairs one bedroom apartment in unique location near downtown Santa Cruz. Breakfast bar. On site parking, private deck. Access down private road of Roberts St. Quiet setting. Unit amenities Carpet, Cat friendly, Heat, Private patio, Refrigerator, oven range, Vinyl floors, Window coverings

121 Coulson Ave - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

4 beds

2 baths

$7,900

House for rent

Description

Beautiful 4 bedroom 2 bath house close to campus. Newly renovated city park next door. Peaceful end of street cul-de-sac home. Gardener included, close to shopping and bus lines. Includes washer and dryer (not coin-op). 2 car garage, room for 2 cars in the driveway. Large living room and dining room. Mature fruit trees on the property. Close to restaurants, downtown, bus lines. Good commute location. At time of lease signing first months rent and deposit (deposit equals one months rent) are due. Credit check will be run. If student, co-signer required and credit check wi

108 Sycamore Street - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

8.3

Very good

108 Sycamore Street

108 Sycamore St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,875

Apartment for rent

Find sweet deals near Downtown Santa Cruz

These rentals are 10%-30% cheaper than the local average price for similar rentals.

BB3 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

BB3

107 Blackburn St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Storage | Controlled access

2 beds

1 bath

$3,525

Apartment for rent

Description

Downtown Santa Cruz Gem with Private Yard! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom downstairs apartment offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and convenience. Enjoy a private fenced yard, ideal for relaxing outdoors, along with a gated entrance for added security, covered parking, and a storage closet. The kitchen features beautiful granite countertops and a brand-new dishwasher, while the in-unit washer and dryer make everyday living easy. The apartment is located within a quiet, beautifully maintained complex surrounded by mature Japanese maples and drought-tolerant

WLNT - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

WLNT

317 Walnut Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,450

Apartment for rent

Description

This adorable 1-bedroom cottage offers timeless charm with hardwood floors throughout and a cozy built-in dining nook. The spacious living room and generous closet space make for comfortable living, while the lush, landscaped gardens and inviting common areas create a peaceful outdoor retreat. Additional features include a back utility entrance and access to a shared laundry room. Nestled in a character-rich complex, this gem blends comfort, charm, and convenience in a beautiful historic setting. Walking distance to local shops, entertainment, and public transportation. Pe

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320 - 328 California Street - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.6

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

Description

Welcome to your 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) located on a multi-unit property in Santa Cruz. This modern and stylish unit features vinyl flooring throughout & stainless steel electric appliances. Situated on the lower west side of Santa Cruz, this ADU offers a convenient and central location, with Pacific Avenue and Mission Street just a stone's throw away. You'll enjoy easy access to grocery stores, dining options, and the beautiful beach is just a short bike ride away. 1 year Lease Tenant responsible for all utilities Street Parking Only and Permi

135 May Avenue - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.1

Very good

135 May Avenue

135 May Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

3 beds

2 baths

$4,950

Apartment for rent

Description

- 3 bedrooms 2 baths - About 1150sqft - 1 car garage - Laundry hookups - Garbage disposal - Central Heat - Nice backyard space - Last house on the block with only one neighbor adjacent to home - Walking trails behind home for easy access downtown Location Overview: - In the heart of downtown Santa Cruz❤ - 10min walk to all the restaurants, shops, and venues downtown☕

251 High Street A-J - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

9.2

Excellent

251 High Street A-J

251 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Dishwasher

1 bed

1 bath

$2,700

Apartment for rent

Description

AVAILABLE JULY 2026 Contemporary 1 bedroom upstairs apartment close to UCSC, Downtown, & local transit. Modern finishes, natural gas fireplace, and dual pane windows. In home laundry (washer/dryer included), high ceilings, and private patio. Fully loaded kitchen with maple cabinets & quartz counters.. Designated off street covered parking garage, secure garbage enclosure, and monthly landscaping provided. 1 year lease No utilities included

Hidden Creek Apartments - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

9.3

Excellent

Our team has verified this company

Verified

Hidden Creek Apartments

200 Button St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Garage parking | On-site laundry | Swimming pool

1–2 beds

1 bath

$2,000–$3,895

Apartment for rent

Call

Clinton & Pine St - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

Spacious 3BR Home Near Seabright Beach – Potential for 5 Bedrooms

Clinton & Pine St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | On-site laundry | Walk-in closets

3 beds

2 baths

$4,750

House for rent

Description

Welcome to Seabright Beach living! This spacious home offers a rare opportunity to lease a large portion of a five-bedroom property in one of Santa Cruz's most desirable neighborhoods. Located within walking distance of Seabright Beach, local restaurants, shopping, and neighborhood amenities, this home combines convenience with a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The lease currently includes three private bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite with a private ensuite bathroom, dual sinks, vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and a large walk-in closet. Residents also e

Pine & Clinton St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz Living at Its Best – 1 Bed, 1 Bath Loft with Bonus Room

Pine & Clinton St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Assigned parking

1 bed

1 bath

$3,250

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 1

Description

*One-year lease. No cosigners. 690+ credit score. No pets. No smoking* A charming 1-bedroom, 1-bath loft apartment that offers comfort, character, and flexibility. This unique home includes a bonus room and a private 1-car garage, providing extra space for your lifestyle needs. The bonus room is perfect for use as an office, media room, hobby space, or additional living area; however, please note that it is not approved for use as a second bedroom. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and local amenities, this property offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy comfort

537 S Branciforte Ave #5 - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

BR40 - 5

537 S Branciforte Ave #5, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Central heat | Storage | Microwave

Studio

1 bath

$2,195

Apartment for rent

Available Jul 3

Description

This beautifully remodeled studio offers a stylish and modern living space featuring granite countertops, brand-new vinyl plank flooring, and sleek stainless steel appliances—including a gas range and microwave hood. Enjoy your own private courtyard, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Covered carport parking and storage locker is included for added convenience. Located in the highly desirable Seabright neighborhood, you're just moments away from local shops, restaurants, public transportation, the beach, and vibrant Downtown Santa Cruz. Don't miss this rare opportunity

Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results
Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz > Downtown Santa Cruz Apartments For Rent
Updated: June 14, 2026

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Learn more about renting in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA

What is the average apartment size in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA?

Downtown Santa Cruz apartments average around 561 sqft across all unit types. One-bedroom units typically offer about 508 sqft, while two-bedroom apartments provide around 764 sqft of living space.

What type of apartment is most common in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA?

Downtown Santa Cruz, a neighborhood in Santa Cruz, CA, sees about 7 one-bedroom listings available per month, making them the most common rental type. Two-bedroom apartments average about 3 listings monthly, while three-bedroom units and studios each see about 1-2 listings per month.

Why Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz is a great place to live

Downtown Santa Cruz stands out for its strong focus on social living and environmental sustainability. The neighborhood's commitment to eco-friendliness is evident in its use of non-toxic paint, waste recycling and composting programs, rainwater harvesting, and community solar projects. Residents can also enjoy easy access to parks and recreation areas, further enhancing the area's green credentials. A high walk score and excellent transit links make it simple for residents to get around without relying on cars. This combination of sustainability and accessibility also contributes to a thriving social scene, with a variety of restaurants and a strong sense of safety, making Downtown Santa Cruz an attractive choice for renters who value both their social life and the environment.

What type of apartment is least common in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA?

Three-bedroom apartments have averaged about 1 listing per month in Downtown Santa Cruz. Studios are also relatively uncommon with about 2 listings available monthly.

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 Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA near you?

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💰Best rent deal200 Button St
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🍽With dishwasher
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