Best Affordable Neighborhoods in San Mateo, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Mateo are Lauriedale Condominiums, Beresford Park, and Shoreview. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Mateo, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 30, 2026, the average rent in San Mateo is $3,017, which is 3.8% 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.
Lauriedale Condominiums
Average Rent
$2,955/Month
Units Available
16 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out Lauriedale Condominiums. The average rent is $2,955, compared to the city average of $3,017. Lauriedale Condominiums is convenient to Terminal 1, Menlo College, and Stanford University.
Beresford Park
Average Rent
$3,036/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.8%
Units Available
12 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.
Shoreview
Average Rent
$3,249/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.9%
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.
Hillsdale
Average Rent
$3,335/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.2%
Units Available
51 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.
Lakeshore Estates
Average Rent
$3,350/Month
Units Available
35 Rentals
Lakeshore Estates is an affordable neighborhood in San Mateo with an average rent price of $3,350. Compare this to the city average of $3,017. Lakeshore Estates provides easy access to Parkside Plaza Shopping Center, Shoreline Parks, and San Mateo Arboretum.
Hayward Park
Average Rent
$3,656/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
Units Available
36 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.
North Central
Average Rent
$3,768/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
Units Available
32 Rentals
North Central is a diverse neighborhood offering a mix of residential homes and local businesses, with easy access to downtown San Mateo. Renters will appreciate the walkability and proximity to schools and parks. The area is ideal for those seeking an urban lifestyle with suburban conveniences.
Downtown San Mateo
Average Rent
$4,018/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
5.5%
Units Available
29 Rentals
Downtown San Mateo is the heart of the city, offering a lively mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Renters will enjoy the walkability and access to public transportation, making it ideal for those seeking a vibrant, urban lifestyle with modern conveniences.
Gateway
Average Rent
$4,473/Month
Units Available
19 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Mateo, Gateway might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $4,473, while the city’s average stands at $3,017. Gateway is near Skyline College, International Terminal And A Gates, and Metro Oakland International.
Bowie Estate Eastern
Average Rent
$4,473/Month
Units Available
19 Rentals
Bowie Estate Eastern is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Bowie Estate Eastern is $4,473 while the city average is $3,017. Residents enjoy convenient access to Japanese Tea Garden (San Mateo), Terminal 2, and Coyote Point Recreational Area.
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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.