Most Affordable Neighborhoods in San Mateo, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Mateo are Woodbridge Park, Lauriedale Condominiums, and Sugarloaf. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Mateo, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of June 18, 2025, the average rent in San Mateo is $2,961, which is 4.5% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
Woodbridge Park
Average Rent
$2,773/Month
Units Available
23 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out Woodbridge Park. The average rent is $2,773, compared to the city average of $2,961. Woodbridge Park is convenient to San Francisco International, Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, and Shoreline Parks.
Lauriedale Condominiums
Average Rent
$2,773/Month
TransitScore® Rating
43/100
Units Available
23 Rentals
Lauriedale Condominiums is an affordable neighborhood in San Mateo with an average rent price of $2,773. Compare this to the city average of $2,961. Lauriedale Condominiums provides easy access to Shoreline Parks, Japanese Tea Garden (San Mateo), and International Terminal And A Gates. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 73.
Sugarloaf
Average Rent
$3,039/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.1%
TransitScore® Rating
43/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
Sugarloaf is a quiet, suburban neighborhood offering scenic hillside views and access to local parks. Renters will enjoy the peaceful environment and proximity to shopping and dining options. The area is perfect for families or any renter seeking a serene, community-focused atmosphere.
Shoreview
Average Rent
$3,157/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
61 Rentals
Shoreview is a neighborhood offering waterfront views and easy access to parks and recreational activities along the bay. Renters will appreciate the suburban feel and proximity to shopping and dining. The area is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, coastal lifestyle.
Central Park
Average Rent
$3,184/Month
TransitScore® Rating
46/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Mateo, Central Park might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,184, while the city’s average stands at $2,961. Central Park is near Skyline College, Canada College, and Terminal 1.
Parrot Park
Average Rent
$3,185/Month
Units Available
15 Rentals
Parrot Park is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Parrot Park is $3,185 while the city average is $2,961. Residents enjoy convenient access to CuriOdyssey, College of San Mateo, and Canada College.
Lakeshore Estates
Average Rent
$3,210/Month
TransitScore® Rating
38/100
Units Available
46 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out Lakeshore Estates. The average rent is $3,210, compared to the city average of $2,961. Lakeshore Estates is convenient to Millbrae (Caltrain Transfer Platform), Coyote Point Recreational Area, and Park Place At Bay Meadows. The community is somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 64.
Hillsdale
Average Rent
$3,258/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.3%
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
68 Rentals
Hillsdale is a bustling neighborhood known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options, centered around Hillsdale Shopping Center. Renters will enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities and access to public transportation. The area is perfect for those seeking an active, urban lifestyle.
Marina Lagoon
Average Rent
$3,330/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.5%
TransitScore® Rating
26/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
Marina Lagoon is a scenic, waterfront neighborhood offering beautiful views and access to boating and outdoor activities. Renters will appreciate the quiet, suburban environment with proximity to local parks and schools. The area is ideal for those seeking a serene, water-focused lifestyle.
Hayward Park
Average Rent
$3,822/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
10.6%
TransitScore® Rating
44/100
Units Available
42 Rentals
Hayward Park is a charming neighborhood featuring a mix of historic homes and modern developments, with access to parks and schools. Renters will enjoy the quiet, suburban feel while being close to downtown amenities. The area is perfect for families and individuals seeking a peaceful community.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.