Bay Area · Budget
Bay Area apartments under $2,500/month
Under $2,500 unlocks 1-beds in premium buildings or 2-beds in mid-tier areas. Lots of options at this budget for international students. The neighborhoods below in Bay Area fit this budget.
Best neighborhoods under $2,500/month in Bay Area
Palo Alto
Palo Alto is Stanford's home, one of the most expensive student housing markets in the US. Stanford grad students typically live in University Terrace, College Terrace, or shared houses in town.
$2,200 – $6,500/mo
Menlo Park
Menlo Park is just north of Stanford, slightly more affordable, still walking/biking distance.
$2,100 – $5,800/mo
Mountain View
Mountain View, 10-15 min south of Stanford. Cheaper rent, Caltrain access, sizable graduate student community working at nearby tech.
$2,000 – $5,200/mo
Berkeley (Southside / Downtown)
Southside Berkeley and Downtown Berkeley are walking distance to Cal's main campus. Heavy international grad population.
$1,500 – $4,200/mo
North Berkeley
North Berkeley is quieter, Gourmet Ghetto, Solano Ave, close to North Gate.
$1,700 – $4,500/mo
Rockridge (Oakland)
Rockridge in North Oakland is one BART stop from Cal, popular with students who want a livelier neighborhood and slightly lower rent.
$1,700 – $4,000/mo
Universities in Bay Area
Frequently asked questions
Can I really find apartments under $2,500/month in Bay Area?
Yes, 6 of our covered Bay Area neighborhoods have units under $2,500/month, especially Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Mountain View.
Will I need a roommate to stay under $2,500/month in Bay Area?
Often yes, sharing a 2-bed is the most reliable way to stay under $2,500/month in Bay Area without sacrificing safety or commute.