Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/22/2025
El Cerrito’s rental market blends suburban charm with convenient access to the Bay Area’s cultural and employment hubs. Prospective renters will find a variety of housing options, from modern apartment complexes near downtown to single‑family houses tucked into quiet, tree‑lined streets. The city’s proximity to BART stations, the vibrant Berkeley waterfront, and scenic parklands such as Miller/Knox makes it an attractive base for professionals, students, and families alike.
Apartment rentals in El Cerrito typically sit in the $2,000‑$3,600 range, depending on size and amenities. Studios average in the $2,100s, while one‑bedroom units are commonly found around the $2,300 mark. Two‑bedroom apartments tend to hover near $2,800, and larger three‑bedroom layouts approach the $3,600 level, offering generous living space for growing households. For those seeking the privacy of a house, rental rates generally start in the $1,800s for studio‑style homes and rise to the $3,300 range for two‑bedroom units. Larger homes with three or more bedrooms command premium pricing, often exceeding $4,000, with very spacious four‑plus‑bedroom properties reaching the $6,000s.
Beyond price points, El Cerrito boasts a welcoming community atmosphere, a selection of local eateries, and easy commutes to nearby employment centers. Its blend of residential tranquility and urban connectivity makes the city a compelling choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of California’s East Bay lifestyle while securing a comfortable, well‑situated rental home.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,126 | $2,110 | $1,860 - $2,650 | $1,905 - $2,283 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,364 | $2,330 | $970 - $3,308 | $2,200 - $2,585 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,758 | $2,722 | $1,000 - $3,650 | $2,450 - $3,095 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,625 | $3,395 | $2,850 - $5,500 | $2,895 - $4,200 |
| House | Studio | $1,813 | $1,845 | $1,500 - $2,095 | $1,500 - $2,095 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,433 | $2,295 | $1,450 - $4,300 | $1,890 - $2,500 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,302 | $3,150 | $2,390 - $4,950 | $2,850 - $3,600 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $4,097 | $3,900 | $1,000 - $8,000 | $3,675 - $4,800 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $6,356 | $6,500 | $3,675 - $10,000 | $4,600 - $6,500 |
In the current period, the average rent in El Cerrito was $2,041 for Studio, $2,380 for 1 Bedroom, $3,006 for 2 Bedroom, $3,987 for 3 Bedroom, and $6,584 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.