Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
San Luis Obispo County offers a diverse rental landscape that blends coastal charm with vibrant college-town energy. Prospective renters can choose from modern apartments in the historic downtown district, where tree‑lined streets lead to boutique shops, farm‑to‑table restaurants, and iconic landmarks such as Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa. For families and professionals seeking more space, a variety of single‑family homes are scattered throughout sought‑after neighborhoods like Edna Valley, Pismo Beach, and the upscale quarters near California Polytechnic State University. The county’s rental market is well‑balanced, providing options that cater to students, young couples, and long‑term residents alike, while maintaining easy access to nearby attractions such as Avila Beach, the Paso Robles wine region, and scenic hiking trails in the coastal hills.
Rental pricing reflects the high quality of life in this region. Studio apartments generally rent in the $1,600‑$1,700 range, offering affordable entry‑level options close to campus and downtown amenities. Larger units, particularly three‑bedroom apartments and spacious houses, command correspondingly higher rates, with premium single‑family homes climbing above $5,500 for expansive four‑plus bedroom layouts. Whether you’re looking for a compact studio steps from campus, a comfortable one‑bedroom apartment in a lively neighborhood, or a sizable home with room to grow, San Luis Obispo County’s rental market delivers a mix of affordability, convenience, and the distinctive California lifestyle that residents cherish.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,639 | $1,515 | $675 - $2,521 | $1,030 - $2,195 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,126 | $2,175 | $579 - $3,670 | $1,847 - $2,550 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,609 | $2,600 | $940 - $4,700 | $2,064 - $3,200 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,543 | $3,450 | $1,473 - $5,900 | $3,100 - $4,000 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $2,100 | $1,660 | $849 - $7,000 | $949 - $1,715 |
| House | Studio | $1,556 | $1,700 | $900 - $1,925 | $1,500 - $1,925 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,041 | $1,900 | $700 - $4,800 | $1,450 - $2,800 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,015 | $2,950 | $1,299 - $6,500 | $2,500 - $3,500 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $4,001 | $3,900 | $900 - $7,500 | $3,300 - $4,500 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $6,185 | $5,500 | $3,300 - $18,000 | $4,950 - $6,900 |
In the current period, the average rent in San Luis Obispo was $1,589 for Studio, $2,070 for 1 Bedroom, $2,781 for 2 Bedroom, $3,944 for 3 Bedroom, and $5,163 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.