Cheapest Cities to Rent in California (2026)
Discover the most affordable cities for renters in California. These 10 cities offer the lowest rent prices in the state, perfect for budget-conscious renters.
$1,380
Cheapest 2BR
$2,333
State Average 2BR
$953
Monthly Savings
$11,436
Yearly Savings
Top 10 Cheapest Cities in California
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Bakersfield, CA | $978 | $1,150 | $1,380 | $1,783 | $55,200/yr |
#2 | Visalia, CA | $1,020 | $1,200 | $1,440 | $1,860 | $57,600/yr |
#3 | Fresno, CA | $1,063 | $1,250 | $1,500 | $1,938 | $60,000/yr |
#4 | Modesto, CA | $1,190 | $1,400 | $1,680 | $2,170 | $67,200/yr |
#5 | Riverside, CA | $1,692 | $1,777 | $2,201 | $2,912 | $88,040/yr |
#6 | Sacramento, CA | $1,748 | $1,832 | $2,255 | $3,002 | $90,200/yr |
#7 | Santa Rosa, CA | $1,785 | $2,100 | $2,520 | $3,255 | $100,800/yr |
#8 | Los Angeles, CA | $1,863 | $2,085 | $2,601 | $3,298 | $104,040/yr |
#9 | San Diego, CA | $2,288 | $2,459 | $3,001 | $3,998 | $120,040/yr |
#10 | San Jose, CA | $2,621 | $2,982 | $3,483 | $4,602 | $139,320/yr |
Why These California Cities Are Affordable
California is among the least affordable states for renters, particularly in coastal metros. However, inland areas and Central Valley cities offer prices comparable to national averages, though jobs may require commuting.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 192
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in California's cheapest cities:
#1: Bakersfield
2BR: $1,380/mo requires $55,200/year
#2: Visalia
2BR: $1,440/mo requires $57,600/year
#3: Fresno
2BR: $1,500/mo requires $60,000/year
How California's Cheapest Cities Compare
vs State Average
-$953/mo
cheaper than California average
vs National Average
-$20/mo
cheaper than US average
Cost of Living Index
142
Above national average (100)
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Entertainment industry workers
- ✓Beach lifestyle seekers
- ✓Those with high incomes
Considerations
- •Very high costs in coastal areas
- •Traffic and long commutes
- •High state income tax