Renter Resources
How to Avoid Eviction When You Can't Pay Rent
Act fast to avoid eviction, stay housed, and protect your credit. Learn exactly what to do, from negotiating with your landlord to securing emergency aid.
•8 min read
What to Know About
Life in Berkeley & Beyond
Berkeley shares many of the great qualities that make California a desirable place to live.
California is the most populous state in the United States and is home to some of the world's most iconic cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. It's known for its thriving economy and diverse landscapes, including beaches, deserts, and mountains. Immerse yourself in the state's history and traditions by visiting museums like the California Science Center and the Getty Center or attending worldwide renowned universities like Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.
There are also many outdoor recreation opportunities in the state, such as skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, surfing along the Pacific Coast, and hiking in Yosemite National Park. There's something for everyone. Sports fans can enjoy cheering on the San Francisco 49ers (NFL), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), San Francisco Giants (MLB), Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), or Golden State Warriors (NBA). Also, check out famous attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Disneyland, Hollywood, the historic city of San Francisco, and the mecca of Los Angeles.
With its warm and inviting climate, thriving economy, and high quality of life, Embrace the Golden State and discover why California is a great place to live.
Rental Market Trends
Berkeley, CA
As of May 2025, Berkeley's rental market is highly competitive, where rentals lease within days, often attracting multiple applications and above-asking offers. Berkeley's average rent is 21.9% ($539) higher than the California average of $2,461 and 67.3% ($1,207) higher than the U.S. average of $1,793.
Average Rent
$3,000
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
0.5% ($16)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
0.1% ($3)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
25
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $2,322 | 0.1% ($3) | 2.4% ($56) |
| 2 Beds | $3,424 | 5% ($182) | 6.7% ($215) |
| 3 Beds | $5,804 | 2.4% ($138) | 27.4% ($1248) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. BerkeleyAverage Rent vs. Berkeley | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Albany | $2,702 | 9.9% ($298) | 32 days |
| Emeryville | $2,506 | 16.5% ($494) | 34 days |
| El Cerrito | $2,901 | 3.3% ($99) | 37 days |
| Oakland | $2,340 | 22% ($660) | 35 days |
| Richmond | $1,857 | 38.1% ($1143) | 31 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Berkeley Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Berkeley, CA.
The average rent in Berkeley, CA is $3,000 per month.
Apartments in Berkeley typically rent for between $1,625 and $7,545 per month, with an average of $3,000 per month.
In Berkeley, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,322 per month, for a 2-bedroom apartment, $3,424 per month, and a 3-bedroom apartment is $5,804 per month.
The average rent in Berkeley is 67.3% ($1,207) higher than the national average of $1,793 per month.
The average rent in Berkeley has increased by 0.5% ($16) in the last month and decreased by 0.1% ($3) over the past year.
The rental market in Berkeley, CA, is currently highly competitive, where rentals lease within days, often attracting multiple applications and above-asking offers.
In Berkeley, CA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 25 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 328 rental properties available in Berkeley, CA.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $136,960 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom apartment in Berkeley.
