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Apartments for Rent in Santa Cruz, CA

123 rentals

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 bath

$3,195

House for rent

Unique Light-Filled Space with Versatile Living Options

This spacious one-bedroom home with a flex room offers over 1,000 sq ft of adaptable space, perfect for creative professionals or remote workers. Natural light floods the interior through multiple skylights, while a large garage includes an updated office/studio space. Enjoy outdoor areas with a back deck and front patio, all nestled near vibrant shops and riverwalk paths. Pet-friendly with a welcoming community vibe, this property offers a rare blend of living and working opportunities.

1715 Matthews Ln - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

House for rent in Santa Cruz

1715 Matthews Ln, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

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

3 beds

2 baths

$4,850

House for rent

Available Jan 15

Charming Corner Home with Ample Outdoor Space

This pristine three-bedroom, two-bathroom home is move-in ready, featuring updated bathrooms and a spacious layout on a sunny corner lot. Enjoy hardwood floors, a cozy fireplace, and ample storage throughout. The outdoor space includes a large fenced yard and a walk-in shed, perfect for gardening or relaxation. Located near Sunny Cove, this pet-friendly rental emphasizes comfort and convenience in a welcoming environment.

2-1171 2-1171 East Cliff Drive - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Townhouse for rent in Santa Cruz

3 beds

2 baths

$4,100

House for rent

Bright Townhome Steps from the Beach & Pool

This inviting 3-bed, 2-bath townhouse offers a peaceful retreat just blocks from the beach. Featuring tall ceilings, hardwood floors, and abundant natural light, the open layout is perfect for relaxation. The spacious kitchen includes ample storage, while the living area and dining room both access the backyard and pool. Upstairs, a master suite awaits, alongside two additional bedrooms with great views. Plus, enjoy the community pool for the ultimate beachside lifestyle.

63 S Branciforte Ave - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

63 S Branciforte Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Garage parking | Balcony

2 beds

3 baths

$4,800

House for rent

Available Nov 21

Coastal Retreat with Ocean Views & Resort Amenities

This inviting 2-bed, 3-bath home features stunning ocean views and is located in a gated community of just 25 units. Enjoy resort-style amenities including a pool, jacuzzi, and racquetball court. With a welcoming floor plan offering great natural light, the residence comes equipped with modern appliances and an attached 2-car garage. Conveniently located near grocery stores, bakeries, and parks, this home perfectly blends comfort and coastal lifestyle in Santa Cruz.

Undisclosed Address #297 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

3 BR, 2 BA in Bonny Doon

Undisclosed Address #297, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Outdoor space

3 beds

2 baths

$3,895

Apartment for rent

Available Nov 6

Bright & Modern Home with Expansive Outdoor Space

Enjoy serene living in this newly built 3-bedroom, 2-bath home on a private acre in Santa Cruz. With approximately 1,600 sq ft, this residence features spacious bedrooms, modern bathrooms, and an open-concept kitchen and living area, perfect for entertaining. The expansive outdoor space is ideal for gardening, pets, or simply relaxing in nature, offering the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility. Pet-friendly and ready for long-term tenancy!

318 Chestnut St #4 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz condo for rent in Santa Cruz

Modern 1 Bed 1 Bath Apartment in Santa Cruz

318 Chestnut St #4, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry | Assigned parking | Carpet

1 bed

1 bath

$2,500

Condo for rent

Available Jan 22

Renovated 1-Bedroom Condo Steps from Downtown

This recently renovated 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo features a spacious living room with abundant natural light and a kitchen equipped with white cabinets and essential appliances. With a prime first-floor location in a quiet 6-plex, enjoy off-street parking and proximity to downtown's vibrant restaurants, shopping, parks, and the beautiful Santa Cruz Beach, just 1.1 miles away. Ideal for those seeking convenience and comfort in a central location!

Address not disclosed - Photo 1 of 1
New construction

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

House for Rent - SANTA CRUZ, CA

3 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms in Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Outdoor space

3 beds

2 baths

$3,875

House for rent

Modern Retreat on Private Acre with Bonus Room

Embrace tranquil living in this newly built 3-bedroom, 2-bath home, featuring an open-concept layout and bright spaces. A versatile bonus room offers endless possibilities for recreation or work. Enjoy expansive outdoor areas perfect for gardening and relaxation, all on a serene acre just minutes from Santa Cruz attractions. This contemporary retreat provides the ideal blend of privacy and modern comfort, with easy access for outdoor adventures.

204 Alhambra Avenue - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Eastside house for rent in Santa Cruz

West Side Charmer! 3x2 - Available 4/1/25

204 Alhambra Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

Furnished | Garage parking | Storage

3 beds

2 baths

$7,795

House for rent

Coastal Charmer with Spacious Yard & Garage

This beautifully furnished 3-bed, 2-bath coastal retreat spans 1,543 sq ft and is just moments from the Pacific Ocean. The bright layout features modern finishes, an inviting kitchen, and great living spaces for gatherings. Enjoy the private yard and benefit from a 3-car garage with two spaces available. Experience the vibrant Santa Cruz lifestyle with beaches, dining, and adventure right at your doorstep, all while enjoying pet-friendly living.

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1401 Laurent St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

1401 Laurent St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

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

3 beds

2 baths

$5,500

House for rent

Available Jan 20

Bright and Spacious Family Home Near UCSC

This beautifully refreshed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is nestled in a prime Westside location, just moments from UCSC and the beach. Featuring newly refinished hardwood floors and plush carpet, it boasts a sunlit living room with a cozy fireplace. The primary suite includes a private bath, while the expansive fenced yard and two-car garage offer ample space for storage and outdoor enjoyment. Enjoy the ease of in-home laundry and proximity to shopping, dining, and parks. Pet-friendly with approval.

127 Mason St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

House for rent

Modern 3-Bed Home with Spacious Backyard Retreat

This stylish 3-bedroom, 2-bath house features a chic design with fully remodeled bathrooms and elegant new VPL flooring. The attached two-car garage offers ample parking and storage, while the large backyard provides a sunny space for outdoor fun. Located in the vibrant westside of Santa Cruz, enjoy easy access to local amenities and the laid-back California lifestyle.

755 14th Ave #308 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

755 14th Ave #308, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

On-site laundry | Swimming pool | Fitness center

2 beds

1 bath

$3,300

Condo for rent

Bright Beachside Condo with Modern Upgrades

This stunning 2-bedroom, 1-bath end-unit condo features a completely remodeled kitchen and bathroom, complete with quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy abundant natural light and serene views from the large windows and balcony. The heated community pool, on-site gym, and barbecue area provide great amenities. Conveniently located near Twin Lakes State Beach and local favorites, this home offers the ultimate coastal living experience.

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822 Eaton St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

822 Eaton St, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | On-site laundry | Ceiling fan

1 bed

1 bath

$2,800

Condo for rent

Available Jan 20

Charming Beachside Condo Steps from the Shore

This beautifully remodeled 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo, just two blocks from the beach, combines modern comfort with coastal living. Bright and airy with vaulted ceilings, the space features contemporary finishes and includes washer/dryer hookups. Enjoy convenient off-street parking and a prime location near local shops and dining, making it the ideal spot for a vibrant lifestyle by the sea.

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 - 63 of 63 results
Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz
Updated: February 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.

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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 rentals123
💰Best rent deal318 Chestnut St #4
Popular amenities, ,
🧦In-unit laundry
🍽With dishwasher
🏠With photos