Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/22/2025
San Mateo, nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula, offers a blend of coastal charm and urban convenience that makes it a sought‑after destination for renters. The city’s vibrant downtown features boutique shops, diverse dining options, and the historic Central Park, while nearby neighborhoods such as Bay Meadows and College Terrace provide quieter, family‑friendly streets with easy access to tech corridors and major transit hubs like Caltrain. Proximity to both the Bay and Silicon Valley ensures that residents enjoy a dynamic lifestyle with excellent schools, cultural attractions, and easy commutes to San Francisco and Oakland.
The rental market in San Mateo reflects this desirability, with a balanced mix of apartments and single‑family homes. Studio apartments typically rent in the $2,300‑$2,500 range, while one‑bedroom units are commonly found around the $2,700 mark. Two‑bedroom apartments often reach the high $3,000s, and larger three‑bedroom units trend toward the mid‑$4,000s. For those preferring a house, one‑bedroom homes align with the $2,300‑$2,500 range, two‑bedroom houses sit near $4,300, and spacious three‑bedroom homes are generally priced in the $5,300‑$5,400 bracket. Premium properties with four or more bedrooms command top‑tier rates, reflecting the upscale amenities and larger lot sizes available in select areas.
Renters appreciate San Mateo’s blend of modern conveniences and natural beauty. Outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of nearby trails, waterfront parks, and the scenic Bay Trail, while professionals benefit from convenient public transportation and a thriving local economy. Whether seeking a sleek downtown apartment, a family‑oriented house, or a convenient commute to the broader Bay Area, San Mateo’s rental market offers diverse options that cater to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,478 | $2,300 | $715 - $4,012 | $2,020 - $3,095 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,750 | $2,602 | $825 - $5,799 | $2,225 - $3,300 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,941 | $3,782 | $1,015 - $6,561 | $3,095 - $4,802 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $5,478 | $4,625 | $2,955 - $10,116 | $4,090 - $6,191 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,360 | $2,487 | $1,100 - $3,600 | $1,500 - $3,050 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $4,354 | $4,385 | $2,800 - $6,500 | $3,600 - $4,750 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $5,352 | $5,300 | $2,250 - $8,000 | $4,900 - $5,900 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $8,055 | $7,500 | $2,750 - $24,000 | $6,500 - $8,500 |
In the current period, the average rent in San Mateo was $2,479 for Studio, $2,715 for 1 Bedroom, $4,073 for 2 Bedroom, $5,390 for 3 Bedroom, and $7,922 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.