Best Affordable Neighborhoods in San Rafael, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Rafael are Smith Ranch, Downtown San Rafael, and Canal. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Rafael, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of December 24, 2025, the average rent in San Rafael is $2,191, which is 1.3% 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.
Smith Ranch
Average Rent
$2,659/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.2%
TransitScore® Rating
39/100
Units Available
19 Rentals
Smith Ranch is an affordable neighborhood in San Rafael with an average rent price of $2,659. Compare this to the city average of $2,191. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.2%. Smith Ranch provides easy access to Touro University California, China Camp State Park, and Metro Oakland International. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 51.
Downtown San Rafael
Average Rent
$2,683/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
23 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Rafael, Downtown San Rafael might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,683, while the city’s average stands at $2,191. In the last year, prices have increased by 3%. Downtown San Rafael is near Metro Oakland International, San Francisco International, and Contra Costa College.
Canal
Average Rent
$3,325/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
TransitScore® Rating
41/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
Canal is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Canal is $3,325 while the city average is $2,191. This is a 1.6% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Baltimore Canyon Open Space, Hal Brown Park at Creekside, and Harbor Shopping Center. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 67.
Ready to make your move to San Rafael? Check out the rent specials, price drops, and great deals on ApartmentFinder.com!
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.