7 Most Affordable Cities in California [2025]

California is famous for its sunshine and booming job markets, but it also has some of the steepest housing costs in the nation. As of mid-2025, our data shows that California’s statewide average rent sits at $3,291, well above the national average of $2,102. That puts the Golden State nearly 57% more expensive than the U.S. overall, with cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles pushing up the average.

Renters looking to save, or at least live within their means, will find that not every city in California is out of reach. Our guide spotlights seven of the most affordable rental markets in the state, where rents fall well below the statewide figure while still offering access to jobs, amenities, and quality of life.

Key Insights: California’s Most Affordable Cities

Why Our Data Picks Matter

Simply browsing listings doesn’t always tell the full story. Verified rent averages prevent surprises and highlight markets where affordability is real and sustainable.

By focusing on both internal Apartment List data and cross-referencing it with other external sources, like RentCafe, we highlight cities where renters can expect lower rents and still enjoy reasonable access to California’s job hubs, universities, and cultural amenities.a

Sources We Used for 2025 Rent Figures

• Apartment List Rent Data (August 2025): Average rents, plus one-bedroom and two-bedroom splits for Sacramento and Long Beach.
• RentCafe Market Data (August 2025): Overall averages for additional cities like Vallejo and Hawthorne.
• CrimeGrade.org (August 2025): Crime scores, which show how safe each city is relative to other U.S. metros.

All rents reflect averages across unit types unless otherwise specified.

How Apartment List Measures Affordability in California

At Apartment List, we define true affordability as the percentage of income renters spend on rent—with a comfort threshold set at 30% or less.

Formula: (Average Rent ÷ Average Renter Income) × 100

This approach goes beyond sticker price. It helps renters understand how livable a city really is, factoring in both local wages and everyday costs like utilities and transportation. In high-cost states like California, it’s the most realistic way to spot where your budget will actually go further.

7 Most Affordable California Cities for Renters

Modesto

• Average rent across all units: $1,882
• Walk score: 48
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: 48
• Map of Modesto

Located in California’s Central Valley, Modesto consistently ranks as one of the state’s most affordable rental markets. Average rents are 40% below the state figure, making it attractive to budget-conscious renters who want to remain within reach of the Bay Area and Sacramento.

The city offers a suburban backdrop with cultural highlights like the Gallo Center for the Arts and local farmers' markets. Modesto’s economy is rooted in agriculture but includes growing healthcare and education sectors, creating stability for residents. While most errands require a car, renters find the affordability and access well worth the trade-off.

Find your ideal rental in Modesto today.

Fresno

• Average rent across all units: $1,900
• Walk score: 47
• Transit score: 33
• Bike score: 58
• Map of Fresno

Fresno is another Central Valley hub where renters save big compared to coastal metros. At just under $1,900 per month on average, housing costs are well below California’s $3,291 statewide rent. That makes Fresno appealing for families, students at Fresno State, and workers in the region’s strong agriculture and healthcare industries.

The city also serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park and the Sierra Nevada, offering outdoor recreation on top of urban amenities. Public transit is limited, but affordability and steady growth make Fresno one of the most balanced choices for renters seeking value in California.

Find your ideal rental in Fresno today.

Bakersfield

• Average rent across all units: $1,920
• Walk score: 37
• Transit score: 25
• Bike score: 44
• Map of Bakersfield

Bakersfield is one of the largest cities in inland California and remains far more affordable than coastal hubs. Average rents sit just under $2,000, and renters enjoy spacious apartments compared to other California markets. Bakersfield has long been known for agriculture and oil, but its healthcare and logistics industries are growing fast.

The city also offers access to the Sierra Nevada, Sequoia National Forest, and plenty of outdoor activities. While it is car-dependent and has limited transit, the mix of affordability and economic opportunity makes Bakersfield a top option for renters who want value without leaving California.

Find your ideal rental in Bakersfield today.

Hawthorne

• Average rent across all units: $1,980
• Walk score: 72
• Transit score: 45
• Bike score: 59
• Map of Hawthorne

Located in Los Angeles County, Hawthorne is a surprising pocket of relative affordability within the pricey LA metro. With average rents under $2,000, it’s cheaper than many nearby cities, including Torrance and Inglewood. The city is home to aerospace companies like SpaceX, providing jobs and a growing economic base.

Renters in Hawthorne enjoy proximity to both downtown Los Angeles and the beach cities, while still paying below the regional average of $2,770. While traffic is heavy, the city’s location and affordability make it appealing for commuters and professionals in the aerospace and entertainment industries.

Find your ideal rental in Hawthorne today.

Vallejo

• Average rent across all units: $2,087
• Walk score: 46
• Transit score: 28
• Bike score: 36
• Map of Vallejo

Vallejo, located in the North Bay, delivers affordability within commuting distance of San Francisco and Oakland. With rents averaging just over $2,000, it’s among the cheapest options in the Bay Area region. The city is also home to the Vallejo Ferry, which connects directly to downtown San Francisco, offering a unique commute option.

Cultural diversity, waterfront access, and ongoing revitalization projects make Vallejo attractive to renters who want Bay Area proximity without sky-high costs. While some neighborhoods still face challenges, affordability combined with location makes it a strong pick for value seekers.

Find your ideal rental in Vallejo today.

Sacramento

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,094
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,547
• Walk score: 49
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 67
• Map of Sacramento

Sacramento, the state capital, remains one of California’s more affordable large cities. With average rents around $2,336, it costs significantly less than coastal hubs like Los Angeles or San Diego, while offering steady government jobs and a growing healthcare and tech presence.

The city features a lively downtown, new housing developments, and a mix of historic and modern neighborhoods. Renters also appreciate Sacramento’s central location, with easy access to Lake Tahoe, Napa Valley, and the Bay Area. While prices are climbing modestly, it’s still far below California’s urban giants.

Find your ideal rental in Sacramento today.

Long Beach

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,596
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,975
• Walk score: 73
• Transit score: 49
• Bike score: 70
• Map of Long Beach

Long Beach combines big-city amenities with coastal living at a lower price point than nearby Los Angeles or Santa Monica. With average rents under $2,700, it offers savings while still providing access to LA County jobs and attractions. Long Beach is known for its waterfront, diverse culture, and California State University campus.

Renters enjoy an arts scene, beaches, and strong transit connections via the Metro Blue Line into downtown LA. While prices are higher than inland cities, Long Beach balances affordability with lifestyle perks, making it a popular choice for young professionals and families.

Find your ideal rental in Long Beach today.

How These Cities Compare on Daily Life

California’s more affordable rental markets each come with trade-offs. Inland cities often deliver lower rents and quieter suburban living but require longer commutes and fewer transit choices.

Coastal spots like Long Beach, Hawthorne, and Vallejo provide stronger access to job centers and amenities, though prices trend higher. Below, we’ve summarized the lifestyle factors renters should weigh when considering these budget-friendly California markets in 2025.

Commute Times and Transit Access

Getting around California’s budget-friendly cities usually means relying on a car, but transit access and commute times vary widely. Inland hubs like Modesto, Fresno, and Bakersfield are more car-dependent, while coastal markets such as Long Beach, Hawthorne, and Vallejo provide rail or ferry links into larger metros. Sacramento renters benefit from in-city light rail that shortens trips to local job centers.

Safety and Walkability Scores

Walkability across California’s cheapest rental markets is mixed. Suburban and inland cities like Bakersfield and Fresno lean car-dependent, while coastal Hawthorne and Long Beach offer higher Walk Scores thanks to denser, more transit-served neighborhoods. Safety ratings are generally favorable across these cities, though, and as with any metro, the conditions vary by neighborhood.

To get an idea of safety, our breakdown covers the crime grade and Walk Score of different areas of California. For comparison, the overall crime grade in the state of California is a C.

Fiber Internet, Parks, and Amenities

Connectivity and community perks also shape renter appeal. Cities like Sacramento, Long Beach, and Hawthorne provide strong fiber coverage, along with popular parks and cultural attractions that enhance quality of life. Even smaller markets such as Modesto and Vallejo balance moderate connectivity with access to regional green spaces, waterfronts, and local gems, giving renters a mix of affordability and livability.

How Can I Find Apartment Deals in California?

Renting in California can feel overwhelming at first glance, especially with average statewide rents topping $3,291 in 2025. But even in high-demand markets, there are ways to score an affordable lease if you’re prepared and strategic.

Take Advantage of Virtual Tours

California landlords frequently offer 3D walkthroughs and live video tours, especially in bigger markets like Sacramento, Long Beach, and Los Angeles County. These tools let you quickly compare units, narrow down your favorites, and save time on driving across large metro areas. By the time you show up in person to look it over and ask questions, you’ll already have a shortlist of the best fits, a big advantage when units rent out in days.

Come Prepared to Apply on the Spot

In California’s competitive rental market, affordable apartments don’t sit vacant long. Some lease within 24–48 hours of being listed. To stay ahead, keep the following documents ready in a folder (digital and printed):

• Proof of income (W-2, offer letter, or recent pay stubs)
• Government-issued ID
• Credit report and score
• Pay stubs
• Rental history or landlord references
• Bank statements (some landlords ask for these in high-demand areas)

You can also call apartment communities ahead of time to ask exactly which documents they require. Showing up ready to apply immediately can be the difference between getting your top choice and missing out.

Negotiate Lease Perks

California landlords often run move-in specials or incentives, especially in the winter months or when a unit has been sitting vacant. Don’t hesitate to ask about perks such as

• Waived application or admin fees
• Reduced pet deposits or pet rent
• Discounted parking or utilities included
• One month of free rent for signing a longer lease

Even if the monthly rent isn’t negotiable, these perks can save you hundreds of dollars over the lease term.

Search During the Off-Season

Rental demand in California usually peaks in the summer and early fall when college students and job relocations drive competition. By contrast, demand slows from November through January.

Touring during these cooler months not only gives you more inventory to choose from but also puts you in a stronger negotiating position. In university towns like Fresno and Sacramento, applying right after the fall semester ends can mean less competition from students.

Expand Your Search Radius

Staying flexible on location can dramatically lower your rent. Inland hubs like Modesto, Bakersfield, and Fresno regularly rent for $1,500 to $2,000 less per month than nearby coastal metros. Vallejo provides ferry access to San Francisco at a fraction of Bay Area prices, and Hawthorne offers LA proximity without Santa Monica rates.

If you’re willing to add 20 to 30 minutes to your commute, you can often double your square footage while keeping your monthly costs manageable.

Find Your Next California Apartment

If you’re moving to California, you don’t have to give up on affordability completely. Cities like Modesto, Fresno, and Bakersfield offer some of the lowest rents in the state, while places like Sacramento, Vallejo, and Long Beach balance cost with stronger access to jobs and amenities.

Most affordable - Modesto, Fresno, and Bakersfield – All offer average rents under $1,950, making them ideal for renters prioritizing value and space. Expect quieter neighborhoods, solid local economies, and easy freeway access to bigger metros.

Best for families - Sacramento and Vallejo – These cities offer family-friendly amenities, local parks, and access to jobs without breaking the budget. Vallejo’s ferry to San Francisco and Sacramento’s top schools make both smart picks for renters with kids.

Best for young professionals - Long Beach and Hawthorne – With LA County proximity, public transit, and vibrant job markets in aerospace, healthcare, and media, these cities are well-suited for renters early in their careers who want lifestyle perks without LA prices.

Not sure which city is right for you? Take our quiz to discover the California neighborhoods that best fit your budget and lifestyle.

FAQs About Renting in California

What is the average rent in California in 2025?

As of mid-2025, California’s statewide average rent is $3,291, which is about 57% higher than the U.S. average of $2,102. Inland cities like Bakersfield and Fresno sit well below this figure, while coastal hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco drive up the state average.

Which city has the cheapest rent in California?

Bakersfield ranks among the cheapest large cities, with average rents around $1,920. Fresno and Modesto also remain affordable, each averaging under $1,950 per month across all unit types.

Is Los Angeles affordable compared to other California metros?

Los Angeles is still expensive, with average rents near $3,388. While cheaper than San Francisco or San Diego, it remains well above the national average, so inland cities provide better options for renters on a budget.

Are Bay Area suburbs like Vallejo affordable for renters?

Yes. Vallejo’s average rent of $2,087 is far lower than Oakland or San Francisco’s, and its ferry access offers a commuter-friendly option for renters seeking Bay Area proximity without sky-high costs.

When is the best time to rent in California?

The best deals often appear in late fall and winter (November through January) when demand slows. Landlords may offer concessions such as waived fees or reduced deposits to attract renters during these slower months.

Do California’s cheapest rental cities have good public transit?

Transit access varies widely. Coastal markets like Long Beach, Hawthorne, and Vallejo offer rail or ferry links into larger metros, while inland hubs such as Bakersfield, Fresno, and Modesto remain largely car-dependent.

How can I negotiate cheaper rent in California?

Show financial readiness, ask about longer lease terms, and look for seasonal move-in specials. Many landlords will offer perks like free parking or reduced deposits to qualified tenants during slower rental periods.

Are California’s affordable cities safe for renters?

Safety ratings in these markets generally fall in the C to D range on CrimeGrade.org, meaning conditions vary widely by neighborhood. Renters should review block-level data and visit areas in person to understand safety before signing a lease.