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

Average rent

$3,490
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224 Laurel St #A304 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

Downtown Santa Cruz house for rent in Santa Cruz

Air conditioning | On-site laundry | Balcony

1 bed

1 bath

$2,000

House for rent

Description

This beautiful, light-filled one-bedroom loft offers a serene retreat in downtown SantaCruz, perfectly blending sophistication with coastal charm. Nestled on the third floor, it features soaring ceilings and oversized windows overlooking a tranquil, tree-lined street. The open-concept living space flows seamlessly into a modern kitchen equipped with granite countertops, updated glass stovetop and oven, and dishwasher ideal for both culinary adventures and casual entertaining. The loft-style bedroom perches above the living area, illuminated by natural light, while the spac

ELM2 - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

8.3

Very good

ELM2

210 Elm St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

2 beds

1 bath

$3,315

Apartment for rent

RT - Photo 1 of 1

1d ago

8.8

Very good

RT

101 Soquel Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry | Elevator

1 bed

1 bath

$3,200

Apartment for rent

318 Chestnut St #2 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz house for rent in Santa Cruz

Cozy 1BD/1BA Apartment in Santa Cruz, CA

318 Chestnut St #2, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assigned parking | Carpet | Dishwasher

1 bed

1 bath

$2,550

House for rent

Available Sep 4

318 Chestnut St #1 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz condo for rent in Santa Cruz

COSIGNERS ACCEPTED: Stylish 1BR Apartment | Prime Santa Cruz Location

318 Chestnut St #1, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assigned parking | Carpet | Dishwasher

1 bed

1 bath

$2,550

Condo for rent

Available Oct 1

318 Chestnut St #6 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Downtown Santa Cruz house for rent in Santa Cruz

318 Chestnut St Apartments

318 Chestnut St #6, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Assigned parking | Carpet

1 bed

1 bath

$2,550

House for rent

Available Aug 1

Find rentals with popular amenities

On-Site Laundry

Dishwasher

Assigned Parking

Elevator

145 Myrtle St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

145 Myrtle St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher | Oven

3 beds

2 baths

$5,700

$5,345

Price drop

House for rent

Description

This beautiful vintage yet renovated home on Myrtle Street, near downtown Santa Cruz is available for rent! This home offers 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, which features a nice big living room for gathering, spacious kitchen and laundry located on the property. Just blocks from downtown Santa Cruz and all the fun shops and restaurants, walk down to the wharf to see the sea lions, have some fun at the Boardwalk, or easily access the bus lines down the block on Laurel Street for easy access to UCSC campus! UNIT DETAILS: · 1,171 sq. ft. · 3 bedrooms · 2.0 bathrooms · Hardwood floo

19 Mary Case Ln - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside house for rent in Santa Cruz

3 beds

2 baths

$5,200

$5,000

Price drop

House for rent

Description

Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the Seaside Cottages enclave near the beach, Neary Lagoon, and downtown Santa Cruz. Features include hardwood floors on the main level, new carpet and paint upstairs, two potential primary suites, and updated appliances. Includes a private yard, back deck, one-car garage with opener, and washer/dryer hookups. Part of a quiet, well-maintained 8-unit PUD built in 1998. No pets allowed. For showings, drive by first, then contact Bailey Property Management at (831) 685-8588.

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Chestnut Street - Photo 1 of 1
Rent special

4d ago

9.9

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

$2,899–$4,257

Apartment for rent

Call

448 May Ave #1 - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

Eastside townhouse for rent in Santa Cruz

448 May Ave #1, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Balcony | Hardwood floor

3 beds

2 baths

$3,900

House for rent

Description

This new 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 two m

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Nearby rental good for eco-living

320 Soquel Ave Unit C1 #C1 - Photo 1 of 1

3d ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

320 Soquel Ave Unit C1 #C1, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

In-unit laundry | Swimming pool | Central heat

1 bed

1 bath

$2,995

$2,700

Price drop

Condo for rent

Description

To view this property, please visit our public showing schedule on our website for available days and times. No appointment needed. - Pacific Terrace | Gated Complex - 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Spacious First Floor Condo - Unit Features New Carpet, New Interior Paint, Wood Shutters & Updated Kitchen - Living Room w/ Decorative Fireplace & Access To Patio w/ Privacy Fence - Kitchen w/ Tile Flooring, Refrigerator, Electric Range/Oven, Dishwasher, Built-In Microwave & Garbage Disposal - Separate Dining Area - Main Bedroom Suite w/ Two Closets & Shower/Tub Combo - Central Heat - Wate

137 Clay St #2 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

In-unit laundry | On-site laundry | Carpet

1 bed

1 bath

$2,600

Apartment for rent

Available Sep 3

Description

Available now is a beautiful 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit located on Clay Street in the highly sought-after Seabright neighborhood of Santa Cruz. Enjoy being just minutes from top-rated schools, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Wharf, Downtown Santa Cruz, and popular Seabright Beach. This central location also offers quick access to Ucsc, shopping, dining, public transportation, and scenic hiking and biking trails. This Home Features: ***Spacious Floor plan ***Fresh Paint ***Designated Parking ***Additional Street Parking ***Shared Laundry ***Quiet 4-Plex Community Setti

328 Main St #13 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Beach HIll condo for rent in Santa Cruz

Le Beau Soleil

328 Main St #13, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Furnished | Air conditioning | On-site laundry

2 beds

1 bath

$8,500

Condo for rent

Available Oct 1

Description

Property Id: 2096176 A beautiful gem on historic beach hill surrounded by glamorous mansions of yesteryear, this condo is on the top floor looking at the treetops and rooftops. Close to the beach and downtown with easy access to UCSC and the freeway this spot is perfect for escaping from the bustle of daily life. Lounge in the extra large tub or wander along the beach to dine out on the wharf while enjoying the show put on by the marine mammals frolicking below. Sometimes the whales come in so close you can hear them spout!!!!

610 Pacific Ave #5 - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

Hardwood floor | High ceilings | On-site management

1 bed

1 bath

$2,880

$2,400

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Available Sep 5

Description

Now available is a well-appointed 1 bedroom, 1 bath apartment ideally situated in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. Enjoy the convenience of being just steps away from local shopping, restaurants, entertainment, the beach, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Wharf, and easy access to public transportation and major commute routes. Whether you're looking for vibrant downtown living or coastal relaxation, this location offers the best of both worlds. This Home Features: ***Open Concept Layout ***Private Deck for Outdoor Enjoyment ***Charming Hardwood Floors ***Vaulted Ceili

308 River St #C12 - Photo 1 of 1

7h ago

Condo for rent in Santa Cruz

$3,400 - 2 Bed / 1 Bath Condo With Garage In Santa Cruz With Gorgeous Amenities

308 River St #C12, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Furnished | Garage parking

2 beds

1 bath

$3,900

$3,400

Price drop

Condo for rent

Available Sep 15

Description

This beautifully updated 2-bedroom condo, available furnished or unfurnished, is just a 7-minute walk from Downtown Santa Cruz, offering easy access to theaters, shops, restaurants, and the freeway. The open, bright living room flows to a private patio through sliding doors and features a cozy gas fireplace. The updated kitchen is equipped with maple cabinetry, an induction cooktop, range, water purification system, and durable vinyl plank flooring. The spacious primary bedroom includes a queen bed, dresser, desk, and mounted TV, while the secondary bedroom is set up with

124 Shelter Lagoon Dr - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside townhouse for rent in Santa Cruz

124 Shelter Lagoon Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Assigned parking | Swimming pool

2 beds

1 bath

$3,500

House for rent

Description

This quiet and bright two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is conveniently located walking distance to downtown Santa Cruz, the Boardwalk, Depot Park and the Nearly Lagoon Wildlife Refuge. These highly sought-after townhomes rarely come onto the market, so this is your opportunity to enjoy all the amenities including tennis courts and a pool while living in a nice, quiet community surrounded by mature trees and wildlife. The best of both worlds! This is a two story townhome with tall, beautifully stained vaulted wood ceilings and will be freshly painted prior to move in. The ki

Find sweet deals near Downtown Santa Cruz

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

207 Storey St - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

207 Storey St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Assigned parking | Storage

Studio

1 bath

$1,875

Apartment for rent

Available Aug 10

Description

Welcome to 207 Storey, a well-located studio apartment featuring 1 dedicated off-street parking space and a gated outdoor shared patio space Nestled on Santa Cruz’s desirable Westside, this studio offers unbeatable convenience: Bikeable to the beach, downtown shops, restaurants, and local businesses Just 3 minutes to UCSC Only 5 minutes to Downtown Enjoy coastal living with easy access to everything Santa Cruz has to offer — all from a comfortable, private, and efficient studio space. UNIT INFORMATION: - Spacious studio - Washer and Dryer on site -NO FEE - Ample sto

708 Riverside Ave Apt A #Apt A - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

2 beds

1 bath

$3,300

Apartment for rent

Available Sep 9

Description

Welcome to 708 Riverside Avenue, Unit A – a bright and beautifully renovated upstairs unit offering the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and convenience. This inviting home is filled with natural light and features stylish finishes throughout, including an updated, functional kitchen designed for modern living. Enjoy the ease of being just a six-minute drive to the University of California, Santa Cruz, and moments from downtown shops, restaurants, beaches, and scenic river paths. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply looking to enjoy the vibrant Santa Cruz life

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313 Barson Apts. - Photo 1 of 1

9h ago

Apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

313 Barson Apts.

313 Barson St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

On-site laundry

Studio

1 bath

$1,795

Apartment for rent

Description

Upstairs studio. Good living space freshly painted. functional kitchen with refrigerator and stove counter. Air conditioning unit available. This complex is close to Boardwalk, downtown and Main beach.

SCZ T 231 Blackburn - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.6

Very good

SCZ T 231 Blackburn

231 Blackburn St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry

1 bed

1 bath

$2,100

Price drop

Apartment for rent

Description

This updated one-bedroom home is located conveniently in downtown, a short walk to restaurants, shopping, and all other attractions. This unit is located away from the street and the parking lot, tucked into the middle of this adorable little community. The home is a one bedroom with one full bath off the very spacious bedroom. The kitchen features plenty of cabinets and shelving, a full-sized fridge, and a full-sized gas stove and range. The kitchen area has enough room to accommodate a dining table and chairs. The bedroom has a very spacious closet and a rare feature:

321 2nd Street - Photo 1 of 1

9h ago

Beach HIll apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

321 2nd Street

321 2nd St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,600

Apartment for rent

Description

Here’s your chance to live just steps from the beach in this charming downstairs one-bedroom, one-bath apartment. Enjoy a spacious private deck with peek-a-boo views of the ocean, perfect for relaxing, or just listening to the waves. Inside, you’ll find a clean kitchen, a generous living room, a large closet, and a cozy bathroom. The property also includes one off-street parking space, onsite coin-operated laundry, and secure shared bike storage. This apartment combines the best of coastal living with everyday convenience. Located only moments from the sand and close to

234 High St - Photo 1 of 1

2d ago

Westside apartment for rent in Santa Cruz

234 High St

234 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

1 bed

1 bath

$2,200

Apartment for rent

Description

- 1 bedroom 1 bath unit in small charming complex - Garbage, water, sewer and electricity included. - Complex at end of the road- no neighbors on one side of complex - Shared laundry room in complex Great central location!!! - 5min drive to UCSC - 5min walk to the Mission Plaza Park - 10min walk to Downtown Santa Cruz and all the shops and restaurants - High Street is off of Mission- Close to all the shops and restaurants off Mission - Great commuter location- Super easy access to freeway Address: 234 High street unit 9 Garbage, water, sewer and electricity included!

320 - 328 California Street - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

8.6

Very good

320 - 328 California Street

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

4 beds

2 baths

$5,500

Apartment for rent

Description

This 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is located right on California Street — just minutes from everything, and packed with personality. It’s not a luxury home, but it’s got charm, space, and all the essentials for comfortable student living. Think: an old-school Santa Cruz vibe, a cute bonus loft tucked upstairs — accessible via a spiral staircase (a favorite hangout spot for past tenants). It's a great setup for a group of people looking for a functional, well-located place to call home. The layout includes four full bedrooms, two bathrooms, a shared kitchen with updated cou

251 High Street A-J - Photo 1 of 1

4d ago

8.9

Very good

251 High Street A-J

251 High St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

In-unit laundry | Dishwasher

2 beds

1 bath

$4,000

Apartment for rent

Description

Contemporary 2 bedroom downstairs 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, & stainless steel appliances. Designated off street covered parking garage, secure garbage enclosure, and monthly landscaping provided. Small pets accepted 1 year lease Co-Signers accepted No Utilities Included

219Fern - Photo 1 of 1

5d+ ago

8.3

Very good

219Fern

219 Fern St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Studio

1 bath

$1,900

Apartment for rent

Description

This property is close to many local favorites including: *Shanty Shack Brewery *Urbani Cellar aka "Bocci's Cellar" *The Tanari Arts Center *Bistro One Twelve Cafe *Costco *The Gateway Plaza Unit Details: *1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom *Carpet *Full Size Oven and Fridge *Has Private Balcony *1 Off Street Parking Spot * Laundry on site So sorry no pets or animals Address: 219 Fern Street Unit #2

Showing 1 - 25 of 25 results
Home > Apartments in Santa Cruz > Downtown Santa Cruz Apartments For Rent
Updated: September 15, 2025

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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 rent for 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA?

The average rent for 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz is $2550 per month. There are 4 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA.

What is the average rent for 2 bedroom apartments for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA?

The average rent for 2 bedroom apartments for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz is $3699 per month. Currently, there is 1 2 bedroom apartment for rent in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA.

How expensive is it to rent an apartment in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA?

The average rent price in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3699 per month. Downtown Santa Cruz average rent price is above the average national apartment rent price which is $1750 per month for a 2 bedroom apartment. Aside from rent price, the cost of living in Downtown Santa Cruz is also important to know. Cost of living includes but is not limited to: groceries, gas, utilities, water, and electric.

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 527 square feet. The average size of a 2 bedroom apartment rental in Downtown Santa Cruz is 650 square feet. The average size of a 3 bedroom apartment rental in Downtown Santa Cruz is 1017 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 deal313 Barson St
Popular amenities, ,
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