Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Arcata’s rental market blends the charm of a historic college town with the natural beauty of Northern California’s redwood‑covered hills and nearby coastline. Prospective renters will find a diverse selection of housing, from compact studio apartments perfect for students and young professionals to spacious three‑bedroom homes suited for families seeking a quieter suburban feel. Studio apartments typically rent in the $1,000 range, while one‑bedroom units generally sit in the $1,100 bracket, reflecting the city’s balanced demand for affordability and convenience.
For those needing more space, two‑bedroom apartments and houses both hover around the $1,500 mark, offering modern amenities and easy access to downtown’s vibrant Main Street, local cafés, and the bustling farmers market. Larger families often gravitate toward three‑bedroom rentals, with apartments averaging near $1,900 and single‑family homes positioned in the $2,100 range, providing ample room for growing households. Across the city, neighborhoods such as the historic West End, the tree‑lined College Hill, and the bustling Oakdale district each contribute unique character and a sense of community, while still being just minutes from Humboldt State University, the Arcata Community Forest, and the scenic Arcata Bay.
Whether you’re drawn by the cultural events at the historic Plaza, the outdoor recreation opportunities along the Redwood Trail, or the proximity to coastal attractions like Mad River Creek, Arcata’s rental options cater to a wide spectrum of lifestyles. The city’s blend of affordable pricing, varied housing types, and rich natural surroundings makes it an appealing destination for renters seeking both comfort and adventure.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,020 | $962 | $925 - $1,195 | $925 - $1,150 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,102 | $1,097 | $650 - $1,395 | $995 - $1,250 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,479 | $1,450 | $1,250 - $2,000 | $1,300 - $1,595 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,927 | $1,890 | $1,595 - $2,350 | $1,600 - $2,200 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,541 | $1,550 | $1,050 - $2,000 | $1,350 - $1,750 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $2,018 | $2,000 | $1,700 - $2,300 | $1,990 - $2,100 |
In the current period, the average rent in Arcata was $1,020 for Studio, $1,095 for 1 Bedroom, $1,495 for 2 Bedroom, $1,973 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,425 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.