Average Rent in Santa Cruz, CA (2026)
Typical asking rent in Santa Cruz is $3,647. Across the 3 ZIP codes with data it runs from $2,900 to $3,720, so which side of town you buy on matters as much as the city average. Data as of June 2026.
Rent by ZIP code in Santa Cruz
| ZIP code | County | Typical rent | vs city median |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95060 | Santa Cruz County | $3,720 | +2% |
| 95062 | Santa Cruz County | $3,647 | 0% |
| 95065 | Santa Cruz County | $2,900 | -20% |
How to use these numbers
These are Zillow Observed Rent Index values, a smoothed measure of typical asking rent for single family homes, condos, and apartments in each ZIP code. They describe what units are listed for, not what any specific unit will get. Condition, bedroom count, and the exact block all move the number.
If you are underwriting a purchase, use the ZIP figure rather than the city median, and then verify against live listings for the same bedroom count before you commit. Santa Cruz sits in the Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA metro area.
Other California cities
Would a rental in Santa Cruz cash flow?
Start the analyzer with the Santa Cruz median rent of $3,647 and add a real purchase price to see cash flow, cap rate, and cash-on-cash return.