With a vacancy rate of 18%, you might assume it will be easy to find a home for rent in Morro Bay. But the catch is that 84% of those vacancies are seasonal. Unless you're willing to live month to month here in the off-season, you might have some trouble finding homes, apartments, and townhouses for rent. This is why it is best to be prepared with your checkbook and a few pay stubs in case you luck out and find your dream home right away.
On the upside, considering that this city is so popular among tourists, it's still pretty affordable. The median home purchase price is only a little above California's average, and the rental price is actually a little cheaper than the median in this state. Now that's something to look forward to! Well, that and those amazing views of the Pacific Ocean you'll be getting in your next house or apt for rent here.
There are three main neighborhoods here. Once you know what makes each one unique, you can choose the right one for you.
Atascadero Road and Main Street: If you want a waterfront home, this neighborhood will suit your needs. Of course, you'll pay a little extra for the access to the ocean, but those views and the varied housing will make it worth your while. This area has detached homes, townhouses, mobile homes, and apartments for rent. Plus, it features Cloisters Community Park, Taco Temple, Spencer Fresh Market, and other places to shop and eat. The Cabrillo Highway running through this area makes transportation a breeze, too.
Harbor Street and Main Street: This area has lots of rental apartments and is a little south of Atascadero Road. It features Morro Bay State Park and lots of hotels and inns, so apparently this is the place to be if you want to relax, whether you're a resident or from out of town.
City Center: This is another area with lots of apartment complexes and single-family homes. Many of the homes and businesses here are slightly more inland, including Monty Young Park and Morro Bay Golf Course, though Fairbank Point and Anchor Street Park are still along the coast.
When you live in Morro Bay, the best way to make the most of it is to play outdoors as much as possible. You can hit the trails at Morro Bay State Park or go fishing, surfing, or sightseeing at Morro Strand State Beach. Other outdoor destinations here include the Heron and Cormorant Rookery, Morro Rock, and Morro Bay National Estuary.
If you prefer to stay indoors while you get close to nature, visit the Museum of Natural History. You can also check out the shops and eateries in Old Town, as well as unique places like Treasures Antique Mall and Suite 1 Gallery. If these attractions and home options appeal to you, start your search for a home in Morro Bay!