Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/22/2025
El Centro’s rental market offers a diverse mix of housing options that cater to both professionals and families seeking a vibrant metro lifestyle. Apartments dominate the inventory, with one‑ and two‑bedroom units providing convenient, low‑maintenance living close to downtown shops, restaurants, and the historic Carnegie Library. Larger three‑bedroom apartments are also available, attracting roommates and small families who value easy access to the Imperial Valley’s outdoor recreation areas, including the nearby Imperial County Fairgrounds and the scenic Sierra Vista Railroad Museum.
For those preferring more space, single‑family houses are a popular choice, ranging from modest two‑bedroom homes to expansive four‑plus‑bedroom properties ideal for growing households. Rental rates in El Centro generally fall within the $1,100–$1,600 bracket for most apartments, while houses typically span the $1,500s up to the $2,800s, reflecting the variety of sizes and amenities available. Many renters appreciate the short commute to major employment centers such as the El Centro Regional Medical Center and the growing biotech corridor, as well as the convenient access to State Route 86 for trips to San Diego and the broader Southern California region.
The city’s blend of historic charm and modern development creates a welcoming environment for renters. Proximity to cultural attractions like the Imperial Valley Museum and the annual Valley Fair, combined with a range of affordable housing choices, makes El Centro an attractive destination for individuals and families looking to settle in a dynamic, yet affordable, metro area.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,185 | $1,095 | $729 - $1,775 | $875 - $1,700 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $1,595 | $1,575 | $975 - $2,175 | $1,100 - $1,975 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $1,495 | $1,275 | $912 - $2,300 | $912 - $2,300 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $1,487 | $1,550 | $700 - $2,150 | $1,400 - $2,150 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $1,983 | $2,200 | $850 - $2,900 | $1,800 - $2,400 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $2,793 | $2,800 | $2,200 - $3,500 | $2,400 - $3,000 |
In the current period, the average rent in El Centro, CA was $1,113 for 1 Bedroom, $1,572 for 2 Bedroom, $1,902 for 3 Bedroom, and $2,644 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.