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Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz, CA

137 rentals

103 Charles Hill Ct #2 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

Furnished Redwood Retreat - Valley Views, Pool/Spa

103 Charles Hill Ct #2, Santa Cruz, CA 95065

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Air conditioning

1 bed

1 bath

$4,300

House for rent

Mountain Retreat With Stunning Valley Views

Embrace modern mountain living in this fully furnished 1-bedroom ADU set on four picturesque acres of redwoods. The contemporary Bauhaus-style home features an open layout with tinted glass windows and walk-around decks for breathtaking sunset views. This 700 sq. ft. gem, built in 2020, includes a fully equipped kitchen, in-unit laundry, and access to community amenities like a pool, spa, and courts for tennis and pickleball, all in a serene, gated setting.

630 Water St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Apartment for rent

Vibrant Community Living Near Santa Cruz Beach

Explore the charm of this spacious 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in a pet-friendly community, perfect for enjoying Santa Cruz's coastal lifestyle. With 909 square feet of well-appointed living space, residents can relish the balance of serene suburban life and urban convenience, all while being just a stone’s throw from the iconic Beach Boardwalk and downtown attractions. Enjoy easy access to local amenities and a welcoming atmosphere to connect with neighbors.

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

Spacious & Bright Family Home near Campus

This beautifully renovated 4-bedroom, 2-bath house offers ample space and a peaceful cul-de-sac location. Enjoy a large living room, dining room, and a kitchen equipped with a washer and dryer. The property features mature fruit trees and the convenience of a gardener included. With a 2-car garage and driveway space for two more, this home is close to shopping, bus lines, and dining, making it an ideal choice for families, students, or anyone seeking comfort in a vibrant neighborhood.

630 Water St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Apartment for rent

Charming Studio in Santa Cruz with Urban Convenience

Embrace the unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban access in this stylish 310 sq. ft. studio apartment. Located near downtown, minutes from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, this pet-friendly community offers quality finishes and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for connecting with neighbors while enjoying the vibrant local culture. Experience comfortable living in a prime location!

124 Torrey Pine Ter - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside condo for rent in Santa Cruz

3 beds

2 baths

$7,400

Condo for rent

Remodeled Condo Ideal for Campus Life & Comfort

This bright and clean 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo offers a desirable end-unit location, just steps from UC and local amenities. Enjoy modern living with in-unit laundry, a cozy fireplace, and two spacious patios perfect for relaxation. Off-street parking and a convenient layout make this home a must-see for students and professionals alike. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a vibrant community.

119 Donna Ct - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

119 Donna Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher

5 beds

3 baths

$9,600

House for rent

Spacious Home with Canyon Views on Quiet Cul-de-Sac

This large 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom home features a recently remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, along with newer flooring throughout. Enjoy a spacious living room and scenic views of the canyon from the backyard. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac, it's a short walk to parks, UC, and recreational facilities. The property includes non-coin-op laundry, garage and driveway parking, and a gardener. Perfect for families or students seeking comfort and convenience in a desirable neighborhood.

1322 River St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

1322 River St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher

5 beds

3.5 baths

$9,600

House for rent

Spacious Riverfront Retreat with Scenic Views

Enjoy breathtaking views in this roomy 5-bedroom, 3.25-bath home featuring 1,963 sq ft of living space. Highlights include a charming back deck, two bedrooms with private sinks and entrances, skylights, and wood beam ceilings. The well-equipped kitchen comes with a 4-burner stove and refrigerator. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts with close proximity to hiking, parks, and shopping, plus convenient off-street parking and in-unit laundry. Perfect for a larger family or group.

1744 Foster Ct - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

Rooms for rent in quite safe neighborhood house

1744 Foster Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Garage parking

5 beds

2.5 baths

$1,400

House for rent

Available Mar 1

Reverse Floor Plan with Scenic Decks & Hot Tub

Nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac beside serene green spaces, this furnished Santa Cruz house features a reverse floor plan with vaulted ceilings. Enjoy a well-equipped kitchen, spacious decks with BBQs, and a large hot tub. The property includes parking and high-speed Wi-Fi, ideal for single occupancy. With easy access to parks, experience a tranquil living environment with communal conveniences.

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218 Highland Ct - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

218 Highland Ct, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Garage parking

3 beds

2 baths

$8,000

House for rent

Available Aug 11

Luxurious Executive Home with Private Backyard Oasis

This stunning fully furnished 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom executive home boasts a coffered ceiling family room with a cozy fireplace and French doors leading to a private backyard with a gazebo and fire pit. The gourmet kitchen features quartz countertops and upscale appliances. The primary suite offers a spa-like bath with a soaking tub. Located in the desirable Upper West Side, it’s just minutes from UCSC and the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, making it a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.

Showing 51 - 59 of 59 results
Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz
Updated: May 4, 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.

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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?

As of 2025, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Santa Cruz is $2,594, while a 2-bedroom apartment averages $3,628 per month.

Are rents going up or down in Santa-Cruz, CA?

Rents in Santa Cruz have generally decreased, with the average rent dropping by about 3%. Specifically, 1-bedroom rents decreased by 5%, and 2-bedroom rents dropped by 7%.

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

The best time to look for an apartment in Santa Cruz is in October or December when rents are lower and competition is less intense compared to the peak in April.

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

The best neighborhoods for renting in Santa Cruz include Beach Hill, Downtown Santa Cruz, Eastside, and Westside, known for their vibrant culture and community atmosphere.

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

For budget-conscious renters, the Eastside neighborhood is a great option, with 1-bedroom rents averaging 10% lower than the city median.

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

Yes, Santa Cruz has a good number of pet-friendly apartments, with about 42% of listings accommodating pets.

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

Utilities are included in approximately 30% of rental listings in Santa Cruz.

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.

Looking for apartments in Santa Cruz, CA near you?

🔑Available apartment rentals137
💰Best rent deal1744 Foster Ct
Popular amenities, ,
🧦In-unit laundry
🍽With dishwasher
🏠With photos