Average Rent in San Benito County, CA↑ Rents rising 4.1% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 66,056
Market Overview
San Benito County, CA has rental prices ranging from $1,799/month to $4,046/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,999/month — 43% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $108,289/year, spending $1,999/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How San Benito County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,623/month, San Benito County ranks #12 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in California — pricier than 99% of all US cities in our data.
The San Benito County Rental Market
The San Benito County, CA area has a population of about 66,056 and 33% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in San Benito County, CA have risen by $104/month (4.1%) over the past year, from $2,519 to $2,623. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in San Benito County, CA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $79,960. The local median household income of $108,289 exceeds that threshold by $28,329, making San Benito County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
San Benito County, CA has an unemployment rate of 5.9%, 2.0 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is San Benito County, CA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in CAlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $1,856 | $2,081 | $2,625 | $3,335 | — |
| Santa Ana | $2,352 | $2,454 | $2,903 | $3,927 | — |
| Oakland | $1,937 | $2,201 | $2,682 | $3,432 | — |
| San Francisco | $2,275 | $2,780 | $3,318 | $4,138 | — |
| Riverside | $1,776 | $1,852 | $2,306 | $3,079 | — |
| San Diego | $2,145 | $2,328 | $2,881 | $3,852 | — |
Rent or Buy in San Benito County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real San Benito County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in San Benito County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in San Benito CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in CASee how San Benito County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare San Benito CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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