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 August 3, 2025, the average rent in San Mateo is $3,003, which is 7.3% 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
$2,842/Month
Units Available
21 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Mateo, Woodbridge Park might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,842, while the city’s average stands at $3,003. Woodbridge Park is near Millbrae Bart Station, Canada College, and Terminal 2.
Lauriedale Condominiums
Average Rent
$2,842/Month
TransitScore® Rating
43/100
Units Available
21 Rentals
Lauriedale Condominiums is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Lauriedale Condominiums is $2,842 while the city average is $3,003. Residents enjoy convenient access to Belmont Plaza, Millbrae Bart Station, and Terminal 1. The neighborhood is considered walkable with a WalkScore® of 73.
Sugarloaf
Average Rent
$3,048/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.1%
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.
El Cerrito Manor
Average Rent
$3,124/Month
TransitScore® Rating
46/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Mateo neighborhood on a budget, check out El Cerrito Manor. The average rent is $3,124, compared to the city average of $3,003. El Cerrito Manor is convenient to Millbrae Bart Station, Japanese Tea Garden (San Mateo), and Coyote Point Recreational Area. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 87.
North B-Tilton Avenue
Average Rent
$3,164/Month
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
North B-Tilton Avenue is an affordable neighborhood in San Mateo with an average rent price of $3,164. Compare this to the city average of $3,003. North B-Tilton Avenue provides easy access to Coyote Point Recreational Area, Millbrae (Caltrain Transfer Platform), and Metro Oakland International. It’s a walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 98.
Shoreview
Average Rent
$3,173/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
7.7%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
54 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.
Lakeshore Estates
Average Rent
$3,334/Month
TransitScore® Rating
38/100
Units Available
37 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 $3,334, while the city’s average stands at $3,003. Lakeshore Estates is near Coyote Point Recreational Area, Menlo College, and Metro Oakland International.
Baywood-Aragon
Average Rent
$3,338/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
9.3%
TransitScore® Rating
44/100
Units Available
13 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.
Hillsdale
Average Rent
$3,443/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
9.2%
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
74 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.
Parrot Park
Average Rent
$3,466/Month
Units Available
10 Rentals
Parrot Park is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Parrot Park is $3,466 while the city average is $3,003. Residents enjoy convenient access to Millbrae (Caltrain Transfer Platform), Terminal 1, and Central Park Plaza.
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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.