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

Average rent

$3,790
decreased by7%

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Great for

Social life
Eco-living
Wellness

All rentals

River Row - Photo 1 of 1
Rent special

5d+ ago

9.7

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

RT - Photo 1 of 1

12h ago

8.8

Very good

RT

101 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry | Elevator

1–2 beds

1 bath

$2,999–$3,899

Apartment for rent

ELM2 - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

8.3

Very good

ELM2

210 Elm St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,500

Apartment for rent

412 Maple St #4 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

412 Maple - 4

412 Maple St #4, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

2 beds

1 bath

$3,200

Apartment for rent

Available Jun 25

116 Maple St #4 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

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

1 bed

1 bath

$2,495

Apartment for rent

Available May 6

Chestnut Street - Photo 1 of 1
Rent special

21h ago

9.4

Excellent

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Verified

Chestnut Street

143 Chestnut St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Balcony | Central heat | Hardwood floor

1 bed

1 bath

$2,919–$2,939

Apartment for rent

Call

Find rentals with popular amenities

In-Unit Laundry

Dishwasher

Assigned Parking

Fitness Center

309 Chestnut St #309 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

Chestnut - 309

309 Chestnut St #309, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

5 beds

2 baths

$8,000

House for rent

Available Jun 10

Description

Live the Santa Cruz Dream in this Remodeled Downtown Home! This charming 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem offers spacious living. 4 bedrooms are standard size and one is larger, all are carpeted. 1/2 garage for storage, and driveway parking—everything you need for comfort and convenience! All new flooring and paint, new mini-split and AC, new electric applicances, wash/dry included. Located just blocks from all the action on Laurel Street, you'll be steps away from trendy cafés, unique shops, and vibrant nightlife. Commuting is a breeze with easy access to bus lines, HWY 1 & H

901 River St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ 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

$2,849

House for rent

Description

Discover a light-filled home with a unique, non-traditional layout at 901 River Street in Santa Cruz. This spacious one-bedroom home with an additional flex room offers over 1,000 sq ft of adaptable space, ideal for those seeking a live/work setup, creative studio space, or a home that breaks away from a typical residential floor plan. The property's residential and community commercial zoning supports a more versatile lifestyle, making it especially appealing for creatives, remote workers, or commuters looking for extra functional space beyond a standard bedroom layout.

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145 Myrtle St - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

145 Myrtle St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher | Oven

3 beds

2 baths

$5,820

House for rent

Description

Beautifully renovated 3BR/2BA on coveted Myrtle Street blends historic character with modern comfort. This lovingly restored vintage gem features original pocket doors, elegant wainscoting, soaring high ceilings, and beautifully refinished hardwood floors throughout. Every square foot is optimally used, with all three bedrooms thoughtfully arranged around a spacious central living room anchored by a stunning period fireplace. Two distinctive bathrooms: Jack and Jill with original clawfoot tub, plus modern bathroom with shower stall. The generous kitchen offers abundant s

320 Main St - Photo 1 of 1

3d 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

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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

215 Blackburn St #215 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

215 & 219 Blackburn - 215

215 Blackburn St #215, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

3 beds

1 bath

$4,600

House for rent

Available Jul 1

Description

Perfect location off of Laurel Street! Downtown Santa Cruz is just right down the street and Main Beach is 5-10 minutes as well! UCSC bus stop on Laurel street is about a block away for easy access to campus or up to Mission Street. So many amenities and shopping, recreation are within blocks of this great spot! This house is 3 bedrooms, 1 full bath with an inverted layout with a huge dining room and living room. There is parking for 3 cars tandem in the driveway and street parking with a purchased permit. Laundry is included. The fenced in backyard is huge and offe

112 Myrtle St #112 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

104, 108 & 112 Myrtle - 112

112 Myrtle St #112, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

3 beds

1 bath

$4,600

House for rent

Available Jun 24

Description

Well maintained Victorian house in a great location! 3 bedrooms, one of them being oversized, 1 bathroom. Open living room and kitchen letting in lots of natural light! The home has a washer and dryer in the basement and a driveway for off street parking. Santa Cruz Main Beach is within 10 minutes or get downtown to all the action in less than 5 minutes. This location is central and offers easy access to UCSC via the Laurel Street buslines. Quaint newer home in Downtown Santa Cruz

122 Rincon Street - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

7.9

Very good

122 Rincon Street

122 Rincon St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry | Storage

1 bed

1 bath

$2,100

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Description

Experience the charm of coastal living in this 1-bedroom apartment located near downtown Santa Cruz, CA. This apartment offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, featuring a spacious bedroom, a full bathroom, and ample storage space to accommodate your needs. The property also includes an on-site coin-operated laundry facility, eliminating the hassle of off-site laundry trips. Additionally, the apartment comes with a covered carport, providing a secure and convenient parking solution. With its prime location, you'll have easy access to the vibrant downtown area, m

228 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

7.8

Very good

228

228 Potrero St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,050

Apartment for rent

Description

Santa Cruz, Remodeled 1bd. 1ba. downstairs unit in a 4-plex, near downtown and shopping. Kitchen features newer cabinets and granite countertops, electric range, refrigerator and dishwasher. New carpet. Carport parking for 1 vehicle, street parking available. Coin-op laundry onsite. Cat ok w/ deposit (sorry no pet dogs). Water, Garbage & Hot water paid (tenant pays PG&E). -Renters’ insurance is required prior to move-in (contact office for more details). -NO smoking. -NO Co-signors/Guarantors - all occupants of the unit must qualify on their own (verifiable income (co

High St. - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

8.3

Very good

High St.

404 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Dishwasher

2 beds

1 bath

$3,990

Apartment for rent

Description

Bright and airy 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom featuring stainless steel appliances and abundant natural light. Conveniently located near UC Santa Cruz. Rental Criteria: Gross monthly income must be at least 3x the rent Minimum credit score of 700 No history of bankruptcy or eviction Utilities: Renter’s Insurance: $100,000 liability coverage required Electricity: Resident sets up and pays TV/Internet: Resident sets up and pays Water, Trash, Sewer: Set up by Millennium Property Management, paid by the resident Parking: Street parking available Assigned parking available for $50

Find sweet deals near Downtown Santa Cruz

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

251 High Street A-J - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

8.9

Very good

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

340 Highland - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.9

Very good

340 Highland

340 Highland Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

2 beds

1 bath

$3,200

Apartment for rent

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Hidden Creek Apartments - Photo 1 of 1

1d 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–$3,955

Apartment for rent

Call

611 Soquel Ave #7 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

On-site management | Business center

1 bed

1 bath

$2,650

Apartment for rent

Available Apr 25

Description

Available now is a charming 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartment in Santa Cruz. This home offers an ideal location just minutes from Downtown Santa Cruz, the beach, Boardwalk, Wharf, Ucsc, and convenient access to shopping, dining, and public transportation. This Home Features: ***Open Layout ***Prime Santa Cruz Location ***Upgraded Appliances ***Tile Flooring ***Close to Beaches, Downtown, and UCSC Tenant Pays: All utilities are included with a $135/mo utility fee, plus a $25 monthly home assistant fee. Applications available online at ccrentalpro. com We comply with all Fair

611 Soquel Ave #2 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

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

1 bed

1 bath

$2,250

Apartment for rent

Available Mar 21

Description

Available now is a charming 1 bedroom 1 bath apartment in Santa Cruz. This home is located within walking distance to shopping, dining, Downtown Santa Cruz, beaches, Boardwalk, Wharf and public transportation. This Home Features: ***New Floors ***Fresh Paint ***Updated Kitchen ***Great Location ***Washer/Dryer in Unit ***Designated Parking Spot Tenant Pays: Pge & Water, $25 monthly home assistant fee, plus garbage and sewer are include with a $135/mo utility fee. Applications available online at ccrentalpro. com We comply with all Fair Housing laws and provide equal

630 Water St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Apartment for rent

Description

Welcome to The Breakers, Santa Cruz's charming rental community near downtown Santa Cruz, where quiet suburban life and urban convenience meet. Our studio, one, and two bedroom homes are spacious and well-appointed with quality finishes, and our pet-friendly community invites you to get to know your neighbors and make the most of our convenient location off Water Street near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

630 Water St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Apartment for rent

Description

Welcome to The Breakers, Santa Cruz's charming rental community near downtown Santa Cruz, where quiet suburban life and urban convenience meet. Our studio, one, and two bedroom homes are spacious and well-appointed with quality finishes, and our pet-friendly community invites you to get to know your neighbors and make the most of our convenient location off Water Street near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

Listings within 5 miles
357 Lee St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

House for rent

Description

4 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Loft Office Living Room Family Room Large deck Sauna Outdoor Shower Storage Two car garage Easy access to HWY 1. Quiet location. Creek view Clean and spacious. Email for appointment. Cypress Property Management. Must have good credit and references.

1320 River St - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

2 beds

2 baths

$4,600

$4,400

Price drop

House for rent

Description

Welcome to this brand new, never lived in 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home located on the west side of Santa Cruz, CA. This home boasts all new appliances, ensuring a modern and efficient living experience. The location is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts, being in close proximity to UCSC, mountain biking and hiking trails. It's also conveniently located near parks with public pool and downtown, offering a perfect blend of nature and city life. Plus, the property is right on the river, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Experience the best of Santa Cruz living in this pr

Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results
Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz > Downtown Santa Cruz Apartments For Rent
Updated: April 30, 2026

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

Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz apartment availability

Downtown Santa Cruz offers a good selection of rental listings, with an average of 19 listings available each month in 2024. The majority of rentals in this neighborhood are 1-bedroom apartments, followed by studios and 2-bedroom apartments. Many of these apartments offer convenient amenities, including in-unit laundry, elevators, and on-site laundry facilities, which are available in approximately 50-60% of the apartments. With its central location and range of amenities, Downtown Santa Cruz is a popular choice for renters in Santa Cruz, accounting for nearly 16% of the city's total listings.

Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz rental market trends

The Downtown Santa Cruz rental market experienced a significant shift in 2024, with average monthly rents (all bed counts and property types) reaching $3,144.73, a substantial decrease from the previous year. 1-bedrooms averaged $2,720.83 per month, 2-bedrooms $3,948.46, and studios $2,638.80, all reflecting a similar downward trend.

Rents in Downtown Santa Cruz tend to fluctuate throughout the year, with July typically seeing the highest prices, 38.3% higher than December, the month with the lowest rents. This suggests that summer is the peak season for rentals in the area. If you're looking for a new apartment, December may be a good time to find a deal, as prices are significantly lower than in the summer months. However, keep in mind that the rental market can be unpredictable, and prices may vary based on various factors.

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.

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 2024 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.

Downtown Santa Cruz Apartments for rent FAQ

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

The average size of a 1 bedroom apartment rental in Downtown Santa Cruz is 707 square feet. The average size of a 2 bedroom apartment rental in Downtown Santa Cruz is 822 square feet.

Can I afford an apartment for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA?

To help you better understand how much rent you can afford, check out Zumper's rent calculator. Our rent calculator can help you learn more about Downtown Santa Cruz average rent prices.

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

1 bedroom apartments are the most common type of rentals in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA right now.

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

2 bedroom apartments are the least common type of rentals in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA right now.

Looking for apartments in Downtown Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA near you?

🔑Available apartment rentals25
💰Best rent deal200 Button St
Popular amenities, ,
🍽With dishwasher
🏠With photos