Most 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 August 5, 2025, the average rent in San Rafael is $2,185, which is 0.1% 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
$2,698/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
TransitScore® Rating
39/100
Units Available
24 Rentals
Smith Ranch is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Smith Ranch is $2,698 while the city average is $2,185. This is a -1.6% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Northgate Shopping Center I, Contra Costa College, and Metro Oakland International. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 51.
Downtown San Rafael
Average Rent
$2,756/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.5%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
19 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Rafael neighborhood on a budget, check out Downtown San Rafael. The average rent is $2,756, compared to the city average of $2,185. Rent prices have increased by 0.5%. Downtown San Rafael is convenient to John F. McInnis County Park, Rafael Town Center, and Metro Oakland International. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 97.
Canal
Average Rent
$3,055/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.5%
TransitScore® Rating
41/100
Units Available
11 Rentals
Canal is an affordable neighborhood in San Rafael with an average rent price of $3,055. Compare this to the city average of $2,185. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 1.5%. Canal provides easy access to Metro Oakland International, WildCare, and Joseph B. Rice Center. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 67.
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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.