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Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA

37 rentals available

Creekside
$2,575
1600 East 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 445-0816
Rent Savings
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport + more
Prime Location
Spacious home in a dynamic neighborhood
Located in the heart of San Mateo, Creekside offers cost-effective living, priced well below the metro average. Residents love the convenient access to transportation, parks, and shopping centers. The inclusion of in-unit laundry and updated interiors make these apartments truly homey.
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Hillsdale Garden - Affordable Housing
$2,390
3500 Edison St, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 880-6104
Rent Savings
affordable
26 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Recently renovated, Gym, Pool + more
Community Charm
Pet-friendly haven with unbeatable Bay Area amenities.
Hillsdale Garden offers a welcoming retreat with exceptional amenities like a pool, spa, and gym at your disposal. Nearby shopping centers, grocery stores, and public transportation make day-to-day tasks effortlessly convenient. Residents cherish the serene environment paired with responsive management. Pet owners will adore the dedicated dog park enhancing the community's pet-friendly charm.
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Chesapeake Point Apartments
$3,116
1633 Marina Court, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 215-6214
Rent Savings
10 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Nature Serenity
Waterside tranquility near San Mateo's vibrant core.
Chesapeake Point Apartments offer a serene escape by the lagoon with spacious layouts filled with natural light. Residents love the scenic waterfront views and proximity to parks and trails. This pet-friendly community features numerous amenities, including a year-round pool and luxury spa.
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Metropolitan Apartments
$4,121
338 South Fremont Street, San Mateo, CA 94401
(878) 313-2578
11 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Luxurious Downtown Living with Top-Notch Amenities
Metropolitan Apartments offers an exceptional living experience in the heart of Downtown San Mateo with a Walk Score of 95. Residents enjoy proximity to shops, dining, and the vibrant Farmer's Market. Cats and dogs are equally welcome, adding to the community's charm. The property is celebrated for its architectural design, a PCBC Gold Nugget Merit Award recipient.
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Hillsdale Garden - Affordable Housing 046244C
Studio • 1 Bath • 567 sqft
Monthly rent
$2,395
Available
Now
338 Catalpa Street #7
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 720 sqft
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Available
Oct 20
Creekside 2306
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 600 sqft
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Available
Nov 13
46 22nd AVE 1 Bed
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 600 sqft
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CitySouth 203
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 563 sqft
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Laurel Crossing Apartment Homes
$2,764
203 Laurie Meadows Drive, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 419-8529
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Pet Paradise
Charming haven in a lively San Mateo setting.
Laurel Crossing Apartment Homes is perfectly situated in the popular Hillsdale neighborhood of San Mateo. Residents love the vibrant setting with an abundance of parks, shopping centers, and dining options just a short stroll away. The community's pet-friendly environment, complemented by a fantastic dog park, ensures that four-legged friends feel right at home.
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The Apartment Collection at Bay Meadows
$3,995
3098 Kyne Street West, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 200-2704
14 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction, Garage + more
Vibrant Lifestyle
Live brilliantly at Bay Meadows' vibrant community.
The Apartment Collection at Bay Meadows offers a dynamic living experience in the heart of San Mateo. Enjoy modern comforts and a vibrant community, with stylish studios to three-bedroom apartments. Residents love the pet-friendly environment and luxury amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an energetic lifestyle.
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Azara
$3,985
1650 South Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94402
(650) 405-1988
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Modern Comfort
Convenience and modern amenities in San Mateo.
Azara offers a delightful living experience in San Mateo with its modern amenities and friendly staff. Enjoy the ease of access to countless services and entertainment options within a mile. Pet lovers will be thrilled with the dedicated facilities for their four-legged friends.
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The Lark
$3,526
1950 Elkhorn Court, San Mateo, CA 94403
(218) 292-9935
3 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Urban Oasis
Charming, modern homes with excellent local amenities.
The Lark in San Mateo's Beresford Park offers a genuine urban living experience. Enjoy a vibrant community with an array of modern amenities such as a resort-style pool and fitness center. Located near a wealth of parks, schools, and restaurants, convenience is just steps away.
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4.0
MONTEREY GARDEN APARTMENTS
$4,199
150 West 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402
(650) 750-0503
Top rated for Location
“I gave the it a rating because even though it’s expensive however we are happy with it! Thanks!”
2 units available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Cable included + more
Perfect Convenience
Ideal location near downtown and transit
MONTEREY GARDEN APARTMENTS offers an enviable location just a short walk from downtown San Mateo, placing shops, restaurants, and entertainment at your doorstep. Residents appreciate the spacious layouts with formal living and dining rooms, along with two fantastic rooftop decks for relaxation. Rated as a cost-effective option being priced below the metro average, it also ensures easy commuting through nearby CalTrain and major freeway access.
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Mode
$2,988
2089 Pacific Blvd, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 667-8781
Rent Savings
8 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime locale
Central living in vibrant Hillsdale neighborhood.
Mode offers a sophisticated community in the vibrant Hillsdale neighborhood. Residents enjoy modern, well-maintained amenities that enhance their living experience. Its central location provides convenient access to dining, shopping, and public transportation, ensuring a lifestyle of ease and excitement.
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Luxury apartments
Top units for an elevated lifestyle.
7 treetop ln 3 Bed
3 Beds • 3 Baths
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Available
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312 23rd AVE 3 Bed
3 Beds • 3 Baths • 2010 sqft
Monthly rent
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Available
Now
1815 Randall RD 4 Bed
4 Beds • 2 Baths • 1815 sqft
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Now
2016 Fairmont Drive 3 Bed
3 Beds • 2.5 Baths
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Available
Now
460 East 28th Avenue 2 Bed
2 Beds • 2.5 Baths • 1490 sqft
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Available
Nov 7
55 West 5th Avenue
$2,871
85 West 5th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402
(415) 548-8607
Rent Savings
6 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Gym, and Package receiving
Renovated Charm
Delight in San Mateo's lively core
Discover the vibrant charm of West 5th Apartments, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Mateo. Residents rave about the quick and friendly maintenance service and enjoy the leasing staff's dedicated professionalism. With both cats and dogs welcome, along with features like a gym and private balconies, the property offers a refreshing retreat at a cost-effective rate.
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West 5th Apartments
$3,834
55 West 5th Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402
(650) 538-8401
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime Location
Ideal spot near downtown San Mateo with superb amenities.
Located just a block from downtown San Mateo, West 5th Apartments boasts a prime location with easy access to shops, restaurants, and Central Park. Residents love the pet-friendly environment and modern amenities like in-unit laundry and a fitness center. With convenient access to Caltrain and the 101, commuting is seamless.
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4.0
Park Place at San Mateo
$3,469
1101 Park Place, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 445-0814
Top rated for Location
“I’m comparing this place to others I’ve stayed at around the world, and for the size of the complex, I would expect a larger gym. The parking area could also be improved; it might benefit from new paint as it currently feels a bit grimy. Additionally, due to the location of the apartment, you can hear the pool pump house running constantly, which is quite noticeable.”
29 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Prime Location
Steps from restaurants and parks, upgraded modern amenities.
Park Place at San Mateo provides an unbeatable location with restaurants, parks, and a Whole Foods effortlessly accessible. Enjoy an upgraded lifestyle with newly renovated apartments and luxurious amenities like a heated pool and fitness center. Residents appreciate the responsive maintenance team and the safety offered by the courtesy patrol.
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CitySouth
$2,695
3055 La Selva, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 590-5748
Rent Savings
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher + more
Commuter's Haven
Premiere amenities and stellar location in San Mateo.
CitySouth boasts a stunning array of amenities, including a heated pool, 24-hour gym, and spacious modern apartments. Conveniently located near major highways, parks, and shopping centers, the property offers an exceptional living experience. Both cats and dogs are welcome, making it perfect for pet lovers.
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Bay Terrace
$2,994
3204 Casa de Campo, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 200-2340
5 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Cable included, Carport + more
Prime Location
Convenience in Marina Lagoon
Bay Terrace is ideally situated in the Marina Lagoon neighborhood of San Mateo, offering unparalleled access to nearby shopping and dining options. Residents love the proximity to Los Prados Park for leisurely walks and recreational activities. This pet-friendly community welcomes both cats and dogs, making it perfect for pet owners. Positive reviews frequently highlight the peaceful environment and friendly neighbors.
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5.0
Park Royal
$2,768
651 N El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 830-7975
Top rated for Location
“Perfect place to live”
6 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport + more
Elegant Living
Modern living with exceptional amenities in San Mateo.
Park Royal offers a chic lifestyle in the heart of San Mateo, with modern kitchens and in-home laundry that make daily living enjoyable. Located near top dining options and just moments from superb shopping areas like Hillsdale Shopping Center and Burlingame Avenue, it's perfect for those who love convenience. Plus, with nearby access to major highways and public transport, commuting is a breeze.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Mateo is $3,275, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $4,118. Rent rates updated 3 days ago

Studio: $2,898Trending down
1 Bed: $3,275Trending down
2 Beds: $4,118Trending down
3+ Beds: $5,431Trending down

* Averages are based on the rental prices of properties listed on Apartment List

Top neighborhoods in San Mateo

Hillsdale

What it’s like to live in Hillsdale

Transit-oriented convenience distinguishes Hillsdale, where this central San Mateo neighborhood surrounds the popular shopping center and Caltrain station. Apartments range from garden-style communities to newer transit-oriented developments with amenities targeting Silicon Valley professionals. The neighborhood provides excellent access to both San Francisco and San Jose employment through convenient transportation options, though El Camino Real can become congested during peak periods.

Great for

Affluent Families

Luxury Renters

Professionals

Retirees

Neighborhood vibe

Scenic

Established

Residential

Northwest Heights

What it’s like to live in Northwest Heights

Hillside living offers panoramic Bay views near Sugarloaf Mountain. Renters face $3k+ median rents for earthquake-retrofitted 1960s homes and narrow 25% grade roads challenging icy commutes.

Great for

Affluent Families

Luxury Renters

Professionals

Retirees

Neighborhood vibe

Scenic

Established

Residential

Marina Lagoon

What it’s like to live in Marina Lagoon

Water views distinguish Marina Lagoon, where this San Mateo neighborhood borders both the lagoon and San Francisco Bay creating scenic vistas from many properties. Apartments and townhomes often feature balconies capitalizing on the water views and cool breezes. The neighborhood offers excellent access to both Highway 101 connections to San Francisco and Silicon Valley employers, though rental rates reflect the premium waterfront location and desirable San Mateo schools.

Great for

Families

Retirees

Professionals

Young Renters

Commuters

Neighborhood vibe

Mixed-Use

Peaceful

Mixed-Use & Commercial

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

1 Bedroom Apartments in San Mateo (18)

Price

Amenities

Property Type

San Mateo Short-term Apartments (5)

Find an apartment for rent in San Mateo, CA

Searching for an apartment for rent in San Mateo, CA? Look no further! Apartment List will help you find a perfect apartment near you. There are 37 available rental units listed on Apartment List in San Mateo. Click on listings to see photos, floorplans, amenities, prices and availability, and much more!

The average rent in San Mateo is $2,898 for a studio, $3,275 for a one-bedroom apartment, and $4,118 for a two-bedroom apartment. If you are looking for a deal, keep an eye out for a red pulsing icon that indicates rent specials.

Tired of browsing? Take our personalized quiz. You’ll answer a couple of simple questions and we’ll put together a list of San Mateo apartments that are best for you. We’ll also factor in your commute, budget, and preferred amenities. Looking for a pet-friendly rental, or an apartment with in-unit washer and dryer? No problem, we’ll provide you with apartments that match that criteria.

You can trust Apartment List to help you find your next San Mateo, CA apartment rental! After all, everyone deserves a home they love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

In San Mateo, the average rent is $2,898 for a studio, $3,275 for a 1-bedroom, $4,118 for a 2-bedroom, and $5,431 for a 3-bedroom. For more information on rental trends in San Mateo, check out our monthly San Mateo Rent Report.

You can find the lowest-priced apartments in San Mateo by using the cheap apartments filter or you can search by apartments that are offering move-in specials.

You can use the pet-friendly filter to find San Mateo apartments that allow pets.

The answer to this question depends on your household income and a couple of other factors. You can use our Rent Calculator to figure out how much you should spend on rent in San Mateo.

You can use the off-campus housing filters to find apartments near colleges located in or around San Mateo. Some of the colleges and universities in the area include University of California-Hastings College of Law, California Institute of Integral Studies, Skyline College, Contra Costa College, Berkeley City College, and Laney College.

Having trouble with Craigslist San Mateo? Can't find that special apartment for rent on Apartment Finder or Zillow? Apartment List is here to help!

San Mateo, California

Salutations, one and all, and welcome to the online nerve center for your San Mateo, California apartment hunting escapades! Conveniently located just 15 miles from San Francisco, San Mateo is a scenic alternative to the hustle and bustle of the “City by the Bay.” So what do you say? Are you ready to join the 93,000-plus proud peeps who call San Mateo home? Of course you are! But before you pack your windbreaker and your 49ers jersey and hit the streets in search of your future home, take a few moments to learn what life is really like in arguably San Fran’s most aesthetic suburb …

San Mateo is a Landlord’s Market

Sorry, Left Coast leasers, but it’s true. Apartments are generally available in some capacity, but unlike much of the country, San Mateo isn’t experience a massive housing surplus at the moment (less than 2.5 percent of residential buildings are currently vacant). Because the supply and demand for rentals is about even, landlords very rarely offer dynamite move-in specials or other bargain-bin incentives to attract new leasers. On the bright side, it’s not like it’s impossible (or even all that difficult) to find available apartments, lofts, or even condos in San Mateo.

San Mateo Sells Itself

Property managers probably won’t admit it, but the greatest amenity of most San Mateo apartments is the city itself. True, there are some quality digs in the city, and more than a few feature snazzy amenities like balconies, vaulted ceilings, scenic city views, and live-in maids (not really on that last one; just checking to see if you’re still with us). However, you should know that, as a San Mateo renter, you’ll be paying more for what lies outside your walls than what lies within them.

San Mateo's neighborhoods

The city also boasts a number of distinct neighborhoods. San Mateo Park is an attractive part of the city, but it’s dominated by single-family houses. A few apartments can be found in the area. The downtown area puts renters in the hub of the city’s shopping and cultural destinations and is also located close to the BART and Caltrain stations that haul commuters expediently to both San Francisco and Palo Alto. San Mateo Hills showcases a mixture of freestanding houses, apartments, townhouses, and high rises. Hillsdale on the southern edge is a suburban stomping ground that features multiple high rise apartments, while other ‘hoods for renters include Hayward Park, Baywood, and Sugarloaf. Generally speaking, the more modern units are situated west of El Camino Real, while East San Mateo apartments are generally a bit older.

San Mateo is Convenient

San Mateo residents have easy access to the surrounding communities, which the BART and Caltrain rail services provide. The SamTrans fleet of city buses do an adequate job servicing the city itself, so it’s quite possible (especially if you live in the walker-friendly downtown or near a BART or Caltrain station) to survive in the city without a car. Traffic, unfortunately, can get ugly on the El Camino Real getting in and out of the city (especially during rush hour), so do yourself and your blood pressure a favor and hop aboard one of the rail lines for your daily commute if at all possible.

San Mateo is Attraction-Filled

Attractions include a vibrant downtown shopping district, an arboretum, a tea garden, performing arts center, numerous scenic hiking and biking trails, and a pair of beachside parks.

San Mateo is Going Fast

When an attractive apartment at a decent price becomes available, it’s usually not on the market for long before someone swoops in to claim it. In other words, if you’re lucky enough to find an amazing apartment deal, don’t hesitate too long to fill out a leasing application or wait around for the price to drop, because it’s not going to happen. As always, have the basics in tow when submitting a leasing app, including proof of income, banking info, and a list of previous residences.

And now it’s time to hit the streets and scour the interwebs for the perfect apartment for you, so best of luck and happy hunting!

Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA

Creekside

Hillsdale Garden - Affordable Housing

Chesapeake Point Apartments

Metropolitan Apartments

Laurel Crossing Apartment Homes

The Apartment Collection at Bay Meadows

Azara

The Lark

MONTEREY GARDEN APARTMENTS

Mode

55 West 5th Avenue

West 5th Apartments

Park Place at San Mateo

CitySouth

Bay Terrace

Park Royal

Average rent in San Mateo, California

Top neighborhoods in San Mateo

More Rental Options

Find an apartment for rent in San Mateo, CA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

San Mateo, CA Rental Market Trends

San Mateo Rent Report: October 2025

San Mateo Rent Report: October 2025

Living in San Mateo, CA

San Mateo Apartment Renter's Guide

San Mateo Apartment Renter's Guide

Keywords

Apartments for Rent in San Mateo, CA

Creekside

Hillsdale Garden - Affordable Housing

Chesapeake Point Apartments

Metropolitan Apartments

Laurel Crossing Apartment Homes

The Apartment Collection at Bay Meadows

Azara

The Lark

MONTEREY GARDEN APARTMENTS

Mode

55 West 5th Avenue

West 5th Apartments

Park Place at San Mateo

CitySouth

Bay Terrace

Park Royal

Average rent in San Mateo, California

Top neighborhoods in San Mateo

More Rental Options

Find an apartment for rent in San Mateo, CA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is rent in San Mateo?

How can I find a cheap apartment in San Mateo?

How can I find a pet-friendly apartment in San Mateo?

How much should I pay for rent in San Mateo?

How can I find off-campus housing in San Mateo?

San Mateo, CA Rental Market Trends

San Mateo Rent Report: October 2025

San Mateo Rent Report: October 2025

Living in San Mateo, CA

San Mateo Apartment Renter's Guide

San Mateo Apartment Renter's Guide

Keywords