All Filters
Price
Beds

Select two tiles for min/max range

Baths
Transit Lines
Home Type
Home Styles
Specialty Housing

Housing Type

Additional Specialties

Pet Policy
Move-In Date
Popular Amenities
Rating
Show Only
Keyword
Searching for student living options?

Select your school and find the perfect place nearby or on-campus.

All Universities
Pricing Type
Amenities
Clear
Nearby
Nearby

Cheap Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito CA - 142 Rentals

El Cerrito, CA Cheap Apartments for Rent

Whether you're on a budget or just looking to save, there are plenty of ways to find cheap apartments in El Cerrito. Start by defining your list of apartment “must-haves.” What features can you not live without? If you want to live within walking distance to your favorite downtown locations, you may find that a smaller apartment of fewer amenities are a fair trade-off. Rent prices in El Cerrito tend to be higher near the city center. For better deals, explore neighborhoods farther out where rents can be lower and apartment sizes may be larger. Look for areas with a higher number of available rental units — landlords with more vacancies are often more willing to offer incentives like lower rent or flexible lease terms. Keep an eye on listings for budget-friendly apartments that meet your core needs while offering a reasonable commute and access to the amenities you want.

Best Time to Find Cheap Apartments in El Cerrito CA

Timing your apartment search can make a big difference in securing a great deal. Apartments are typically more affordable during the winter months — December through March — when demand is lower. During this off-season, landlords may offer reduced rent, waived fees, or other specials to fill units quickly. Another smart time to search is at the end of the month, when lease turnover peaks and more units become available. Being flexible with your move-in timing could help you land a better price. Cheap apartments in El Cerrito tend to go fast. Keep an eye on timing, neighborhood options, and special deals to score the best rental price.

El Cerrito, CA Rental Insights

Average Rent Rates

What is the average rent in El Cerrito, CA?

The average rent in El Cerrito is $2,299. When you rent an apartment in El Cerrito, you can expect to pay as little as $1,908 or as much as $2,913, depending on the location and the size of the apartment.

What is the average rent of a Studio apartment in El Cerrito, CA?

The average rent for a studio apartment in El Cerrito, CA is $1,908 per month.

What is the average rent of a 1 bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA?

The average rent for a one bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA is $2,301 per month.

What is the average rent of a 2 bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA?

The average rent for a two bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA is $2,519 per month.

What is the average rent of a 3 bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA?

The average rent for a three bedroom apartment in El Cerrito, CA is $2,913 per month.

Education

What colleges and universities are in El Cerrito, CA?

If you’re a student moving to an apartment in El Cerrito, you’ll have access to Berkeley City College, Contra Costa College, and UC Berkeley.

Helpful Rental Guides for El Cerrito, CA

How to Soundproof Your Apartment
How to Soundproof Your Apartment
Tips for Sharing an Apartment Refrigerator with Roommates
Tips for Sharing an Apartment Refrigerator with Roommates
Most Common Ways People Unknowingly Break Their Lease
Most Common Ways People Unknowingly Break Their Lease
Best Cities for Renters with Allergies
Best Cities for Renters with Allergies
Explore More on the Renterverse

Search Nearby Rentals

Rentals Near El Cerrito

Neighborhood Apartment Rentals

Nearby El Cerrito House Rentals

New Rental Listings

Map Options
Map View
Default
Satellite
Nearby Point of Interests
Travel Time

Set a destination, transportation method, and your ideal commute time to see results.

Commute Time is calculated at rush hour.