Best Affordable Neighborhoods in San Mateo, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Mateo are North B-Tilton Avenue, Sugarloaf, and Beresford Park. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Mateo, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of December 29, 2025, the average rent in San Mateo is $2,923, which is 3.7% 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.
North B-Tilton Avenue
Average Rent
$2,842/Month
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out North B-Tilton Avenue. The average rent is $2,842, compared to the city average of $2,923. North B-Tilton Avenue is convenient to San Francisco International, Japanese Tea Garden (San Mateo), and Shoreline Parks. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 98.
Sugarloaf
Average Rent
$2,901/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.5%
TransitScore® Rating
43/100
Units Available
22 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.
Beresford Park
Average Rent
$3,052/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
TransitScore® Rating
45/100
Units Available
27 Rentals
Beresford Park is a neighborhood known for its spacious homes and access to Beresford Park, a local recreational hub. Renters will appreciate the suburban feel and proximity to schools and shopping centers. The area is ideal for those seeking an active, outdoor lifestyle.
Baywood-Aragon
Average Rent
$3,077/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
11%
TransitScore® Rating
44/100
Units Available
18 Rentals
Baywood-Aragon is an upscale neighborhood featuring tree-lined streets and elegant homes, with easy access to downtown San Mateo. Renters will enjoy the quiet, residential atmosphere and proximity to top-rated schools. The area is perfect for families and professionals seeking a prestigious community.
Shoreview
Average Rent
$3,104/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.8%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
53 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
$3,140/Month
TransitScore® Rating
46/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
Central Park is an affordable neighborhood in San Mateo with an average rent price of $3,140. Compare this to the city average of $2,923. Central Park provides easy access to Shoreline Parks, College of San Mateo, and International Terminal And A Gates. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 97.
Lakeshore Estates
Average Rent
$3,174/Month
TransitScore® Rating
38/100
Units Available
38 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Mateo, Lakeshore Estates might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,174, while the city’s average stands at $2,923. Lakeshore Estates is near San Francisco International, Coyote Point Recreational Area, and Millbrae Bart Station.
Marina Lagoon
Average Rent
$3,220/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.9%
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.
West El Camino
Average Rent
$3,272/Month
TransitScore® Rating
46/100
Units Available
21 Rentals
West El Camino is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in West El Camino is $3,272 while the city average is $2,923. Residents enjoy convenient access to Shoreline Parks, Coyote Point Recreational Area, and Japanese Tea Garden (San Mateo). The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 97.
Parrot Park
Average Rent
$3,313/Month
Units Available
16 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out Parrot Park. The average rent is $3,313, compared to the city average of $2,923. Parrot Park is convenient to Terminal 1, International Terminal And A Gates, and Canada College.
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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.