Best Affordable Neighborhoods in San Rafael, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Rafael are Downtown San Rafael, Smith Ranch, and Canal. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Rafael, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of February 8, 2026, the average rent in San Rafael is $2,209, which is 1.6% 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.
Downtown San Rafael
Average Rent
$2,664/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
0.4%
TransitScore® Rating
52/100
Units Available
21 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great San Rafael neighborhood on a budget, check out Downtown San Rafael. The average rent is $2,664, compared to the city average of $2,209. Rent prices have increased by 0.4%. Downtown San Rafael is convenient to Metro Oakland International, John F. McInnis County Park, and San Francisco International. The community is walkable with a WalkScore® of 97.
Smith Ranch
Average Rent
$2,732/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3%
TransitScore® Rating
39/100
Units Available
24 Rentals
Smith Ranch is an affordable neighborhood in San Rafael with an average rent price of $2,732. Compare this to the city average of $2,209. In the past year, rent prices have increased by 3%. Smith Ranch provides easy access to San Francisco International, McNear's Beach County Park, and Metro Oakland International. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 51.
Canal
Average Rent
$3,466/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.5%
TransitScore® Rating
41/100
Units Available
16 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Rafael, Canal might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $3,466, while the city’s average stands at $2,209. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.5%. Canal is near Academy of Art University, Joseph B. Rice Center, and San Francisco International.
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.