Cheapest Cities to Rent in California (2026)
The cheapest rent in California is in Visalia, CA, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,474/mo and a 1-bedroom $1,123/mo (2026 HUD Fair Market Rent) — $922/mo below the California average 2BR of $2,396. The table below ranks all 10 of the cheapest cities to rent in California.
Top 10 Cheapest Cities in California
Ranked by 2-bedroom rent price (lowest first)
| Rank | City | Studio | 1 Bed | 2 Bed | 3 Bed | Income Needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Visalia, CA | $1,116 | $1,123 | $1,474 | $2,028 | $58,960/yr |
#2 | Bakersfield, CA | $1,132 | $1,140 | $1,483 | $2,062 | $59,320/yr |
#3 | Fresno, CA | $1,347 | $1,355 | $1,664 | $2,314 | $66,560/yr |
#4 | Modesto, CA | $1,255 | $1,356 | $1,758 | $2,442 | $70,320/yr |
#5 | Riverside, CA | $1,692 | $1,777 | $2,201 | $2,912 | $88,040/yr |
#6 | Sacramento, CA | $1,748 | $1,832 | $2,255 | $3,002 | $90,200/yr |
#7 | Los Angeles, CA | $1,863 | $2,085 | $2,601 | $3,298 | $104,040/yr |
#8 | Santa Rosa, CA | $1,949 | $2,155 | $2,827 | $3,887 | $113,080/yr |
#9 | San Diego, CA | $2,288 | $2,459 | $3,001 | $3,998 | $120,040/yr |
#10 | San Jose, CA | $2,621 | $2,982 | $3,483 | $4,602 | $139,320/yr |
Why These California Cities Are Affordable
California is among the least affordable states for renters, particularly in coastal metros. However, inland areas and Central Valley cities offer prices comparable to national averages, though jobs may require commuting.
- Below-average housing costs: These cities have housing indices lower than the state average of 192
- Lower demand: Smaller populations and less competitive markets keep prices reasonable
- Diverse housing stock: Mix of older and newer buildings provides options at various price points
- Regional economies: Local job markets support working populations without coastal-city premiums
Income Requirements
Using the standard 30% of income guideline, here's what you need to earn to afford rent in California's cheapest cities:
How California's Cheapest Cities Compare
What to Consider Before Moving
Best For
- ✓Tech professionals
- ✓Entertainment industry workers
- ✓Beach lifestyle seekers
- ✓Those with high incomes
Considerations
- •Very high costs in coastal areas
- •Traffic and long commutes
- •High state income tax
Cheapest Rent in California: FAQ
Where is the cheapest rent in California?
The cheapest rent in California is in Visalia, CA, where a 2-bedroom averages $1,474/month and a 1-bedroom $1,123/month in 2026 (HUD Fair Market Rent). Next cheapest: Bakersfield ($1,483), Fresno ($1,664), Modesto ($1,758).
How much can I save renting in California's cheapest cities?
By choosing California's cheapest city over the state average 2BR of $2,396, you could save $922/month or $11,064/year on rent.
Is rent in California's cheapest city below the US average?
Yes. A 2-bedroom in Visalia costs $1,474/month, which is $99/month below the US median 2BR Fair Market Rent of $1,573 (HUD, 2026).
What income do I need to rent in California's cheapest cities?
To afford the cheapest 2BR in California at $1,474/month, you need approximately $58,960/year based on the 30% of income guideline.