Most Affordable Neighborhoods in San Mateo, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in San Mateo are San Mateo Park, Western Hills, and Highlands. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in San Mateo, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of April 18, 2025, the average rent in San Mateo is $2,928, which is 3.3% 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.
San Mateo Park
Average Rent
$2,600/Month
TransitScore® Rating
41/100
Units Available
4 Rentals
San Mateo Park is a historic neighborhood known for its grand homes, lush landscaping, and winding streets. Renters will enjoy the prestigious atmosphere and proximity to downtown San Mateo. The area is perfect for those seeking a blend of historic charm and luxury living.
Western Hills
Average Rent
$2,700/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
TransitScore® Rating
29/100
Units Available
1 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in San Mateo, Western Hills might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,700, while the city’s average stands at $2,928. In the last year, prices have increased by 1.9%. Western Hills is near Metro Oakland International, Millbrae Bart Station, and San Francisco International.
Highlands
Average Rent
$2,700/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
TransitScore® Rating
16/100
Units Available
1 Rentals
Highlands is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Highlands is $2,700 while the city average is $2,928. This is a 1.9% difference from last year. Residents enjoy convenient access to Terminal 1, Metro Oakland International, and Garage A. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 58.
Baywood-Aragon
Average Rent
$2,841/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.9%
TransitScore® Rating
44/100
Units Available
19 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.
Sugarloaf
Average Rent
$2,884/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.9%
TransitScore® Rating
43/100
Units Available
23 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.
Shoreview
Average Rent
$3,125/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.2%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
64 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.
North Central
Average Rent
$3,330/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.6%
TransitScore® Rating
42/100
Units Available
54 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.
Hillsdale
Average Rent
$3,343/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.4%
TransitScore® Rating
48/100
Units Available
94 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.
Beresford Park
Average Rent
$3,345/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.3%
TransitScore® Rating
45/100
Units Available
33 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.
Downtown San Mateo
Average Rent
$3,413/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
4.2%
TransitScore® Rating
47/100
Units Available
53 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.
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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.