
Apartments for Rent in El Cerrito, CA (1,494 Rentals)


Metro 510

Mayfair Station

1201 Liberty Apartments

Civic Plaza Apartments

1401 Liberty St

Cerrito Vista Apartments

1636 Lexington Ave, Unit 1636

929 Liberty St, Unit 929

6401 Fairmount Ave, Unit #2
San Francisco's Best Affordable Neighborhoods
Learn about San Francisco and the best places to live with original content written by our San Francisco, CA Local Expert Shannon Hilson

901-906 Kearney St

429-431 Kearney St

929 Lexington Ave
El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in El Cerrito?
Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
---|---|---|---|
El Cerrito Studio Apartments | $2,308 | $821 | $3,551 |
El Cerrito 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,502 | $1,000 | $4,140 |
El Cerrito 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,350 | $1,795 | $5,682 |
El Cerrito 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,234 | $1,622 | $7,186 |
El Cerrito 4 Bedroom Apartments | $4,296 | $1,651 | $8,847 |
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El Cerrito, CA Local Guide

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El Cerrito Overview
Part of the glorious San Francisco Bay area, El Cerrito is a scenic hot spot that is sure to appeal to many. A relatively 'new' city, this west coast locale is brimming with industry, convenience and a world of amenities at your fingertips.
What is the history of El Cerrito?
After the great earthquake of 1906, El Cerrito was flooded with refugees in need of new homes. The city was officially incorporated a few short years later in 1917, and took its namesake meaning 'little knoll'. Despite humble beginnings as a settlement to around 1500, modern El Cerrito apartments act as home close to 25,000 today.
How is the weather in El Cerrito?
Situated along the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, those residing in El Cerrito rentals can anticipate a fair share of breezy conditions. San Fran fog is commonplace, especailly in the mornings, and while this is still sunny California an apartment in El Cerrito can see its fair share of rainy and chilly weather, especially in the October-February months.
How do I get around town?
Most living in El Cerrito apartments for rent rely on at least one private car or truck, with taxis and ride ahring options such as Lyft and Uber in high supply as well. Bicycling remains popular around the city, and bus service is widespread thanks to AC Transit. The BART rail service has several stops in and around downtown, and San Francisco Airport is a largescale flight hub.
What is the El Cerrito commute like?
Interstate 80 is the major roadway in the vicinity, with the Golden Gate Bridge and I-580 also nearby. While traffic typically moves smoothly inside the city limits, those commuting to nearby Berkeley College or the job market of greater San Fran may want to utiilize the BART system, as traffic congestion can swell during peak 9-to-5 hours on most days. San Pablo Avenue is a hub of shopping and eateries in the city.
What are the local media outlets?
The 'East Bay Times' is a popular print news source, and residents of rentals in El Cerrito can anticipate much in the way of broadcast television options, thanks to a wide range of affiliates. Radio is likewise a diverse affair, ranging from NPR talk formats to indie rock college hits, with modern pop and classic rock also found with ease.
Why live in El Cerrito, CA?
Boasting an impressive number of public parks, not to mention jaw-dropping water views and plenty in the way of shopping, restaurants and nightclubs, a El Cerrito is sure to please. Convenient to a number of area universities as well as the excitement of San Francisco proper, this California destination is an ideal spot for anyone eager to connect with a new home on the west coast.
What El Cerrito landmarks should I see?
El Cerrito Plaza is a hugely popular shopping center that has been in vogue for decades, and the Hillside Natural Area collects close to 80 acres of wild hiking trails and bird watching sites. Arhoolie Records still makes its home in the city, now a part of the Smithsonian Institute, and the old bones of the popular Playland-Not-At-The-Beach can still be scene from many an apartment in El Cerrito.
What is there to do around El Cerrito?
Take in a movie at the famed Cerrito Theater, or take a jog along the Ohone Greenway, both within easy reach of many El Cerrito rentals. Enjoy some craft cocktails with your new neighbors at Mel-O-Dee, grab a tasty burger at the Red Onion, or take to Golden Gate Fields for an exciting day or horse racing, the choices are seemingly limitless in this Cali hot spot.
Any annual festivals or El Cerrito events to know?
The WorldOne Festival isa huge annual event in the city, complete with large crowds of revelers and plenty of live music, while fans of classic theater won't want to miss the Straford Festival every August. El Cerrito High also hosts a jazz fest every fall.
Where are the nearby vacation spots?
Spend a weekend exploring Alcatraz or the famous Fisherman's Warf of San Francisco, or head into wine country for a wide array of fine vintage tours, both within easy driving distance of most El Cerrito apartments for rent. Head south to the glamor of Hollywood, or simply drive the California coast and enjoy the fishing, boating and sunbathing opportunities.
Where is the best place to move in El Cerrito?
From economic one bedroom apartments complete with onsite parking and easy access to nearby universities, to roomy 4-bedroom family rentals providing gym facilities and pet-friendly policies, a world of El Cerrito apartment options awaits you. So why spend another moment without a California rental of your very own? Start your hunt today and see what the west coast has in store for you!
Best Local Schools in El Cerrito, CA
Madera Elementary
Fred T. Korematsu Middle
School data provided by Great Schools
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Getting Around El Cerrito, CA
Walk Score®
88 / 100
Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
83 / 100
Very Bikeable
Biking is convenient for most trips
Transit Score®
57 / 100
Good Transit
Many nearby public transportation options
What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?
- Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
- Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
- Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Frequently Asked Questions about El Cerrito
How much are Studio apartments in El Cerrito?
There are currently 120 Studio Apartments in El Cerrito with rent ranges from $821 to $3,551 with an average price of $2,308.
What is the current price range for One Bedroom El Cerrito Apartments for rent?
Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in El Cerrito ranges from $1,000 to $4,140 with an average monthly rent of $2,502.
What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in El Cerrito cost?
The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in El Cerrito range from $1,795 to $5,682. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $3,350.
How expensive are El Cerrito Three Bedroom Apartments?
There are currently 207 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in El Cerrito on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,622 to $7,186 - averaging $4,234 for the location.
Expert Rental Resources
Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips
The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

A San Francisco Local Expert’s Guide to the Top Budget-Friendly Bay Area Neighborhoods to Rent
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If you’re anything like me, the thought of San Francisco is synonymous with concepts like creativity, character, and quirky local style.

Renting Smart: Lease Basics Every Renter Needs
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Often, in the excitement of finding a new place to live, there’s a rush to make it happen, and - too often - a new tenant signs a lease without reading it carefully.

Battling the Butts: Your Guide to the Reality of Smoke-Free Renting
Written by: Andrea Lee Negroni, JD
While many apartment buildings are “no smoking” properties, it’s hard to know exactly how many. In 2017, the National Apartment Association reported more than half of rental properties had smoke free policies.

Understanding Amenity Fees: Know Where You Might Be Able to Save Money
Written by: Amber Kanuckel
With the rising costs of housing, a lot of renters are asking this question: Is it possible to opt out of various amenities that your rental property offers so that you can avoid paying the fees.