Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Monterey County’s rental market blends coastal charm with vibrant inland communities, offering a diverse array of housing options for renters seeking both lifestyle and convenience. From historic neighborhoods in Monterey Peninsula to the family‑friendly suburbs of Salinas and Seaside, the county features a mix of apartments and single‑family homes that cater to a wide range of preferences. Residents enjoy easy access to iconic attractions such as Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway, all while benefiting from a strong local economy anchored by tourism, agriculture, and technology sectors.
Rental pricing in the area reflects the desirable location and quality of available units. Studio apartments typically rent in the $1800s, while one‑bedroom apartments often fall within the $2000 range, providing affordable entry points for individuals and couples. Larger apartments and houses see a progressive increase, with two‑ and three‑bedroom options ranging from the mid‑$2000s to the mid‑$3000s, and spacious four‑plus‑bedroom homes reaching the $5000 bracket. This spectrum of price points ensures that families, professionals, and retirees can find suitable accommodations that align with their budget and space needs.
Beyond the numbers, Monterey County offers a lifestyle enriched by outdoor recreation, acclaimed culinary scenes, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re drawn to the surf‑lined beaches, the rolling vineyards of the Salinas Valley, or the historic downtown districts, the rental market here provides flexible living arrangements that complement the region’s natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,879 | $1,800 | $1,200 - $2,800 | $1,695 - $2,100 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,080 | $2,124 | $900 - $3,500 | $1,850 - $2,300 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,836 | $2,697 | $890 - $4,650 | $2,520 - $3,175 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,303 | $3,375 | $1,600 - $4,900 | $3,000 - $3,695 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,438 | $2,505 | $950 - $5,000 | $1,995 - $2,995 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,423 | $3,272 | $1,245 - $5,800 | $3,000 - $3,800 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $4,297 | $4,100 | $2,595 - $9,750 | $3,745 - $4,595 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $4,991 | $4,847 | $2,975 - $8,200 | $4,200 - $5,500 |
In the current period, the average rent in Monterey was $1,881 for Studio, $2,136 for 1 Bedroom, $3,058 for 2 Bedroom, $4,189 for 3 Bedroom, and $4,968 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.