If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Sacramento, there are plenty of neighborhoods from which to choose. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to rent in Sacramento based on the following factors:
- Rental availability
- Average rent relative to other neighborhoods in the city
- Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centers, or major parks
- Niche.com’s neighborhood report cards
The five best neighborhoods in Sacramento for renters are:
Med Center
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Sacramento: $1,576/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Med Center: $938/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Med Center: 800 square feet
Why Med Center is good for renters
Med Center is a convenient neighborhood located near UC Davis Medical Center and major transit lines. It’s ideal for renters who want easy access to work or school, and the area features a mix of apartments, older homes, and modern complexes. Renters here can enjoy quieter streets while still being close to Downtown Sacramento.
|
Very Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
80Med Center has a walkability score of 80 out of 100 |
50Med Center has a transit score of 50 out of 100 |
70Med Center has a drivability score of 70 out of 100 |
70Med Center has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
While the neighborhood offers great convenience, parking can be tight and traffic may be heavier during hospital shifts and peak hours.
Boulevard Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Sacramento: $1,576/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Boulevard Park: $1,511/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Boulevard Park: 560 square feet
Why Boulevard Park is good for renters
Boulevard Park is known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and beautifully preserved homes. This neighborhood offers a quieter, more residential feel while still being within walking or biking distance of Midtown’s amenities. It's ideal for renters who want character and calm in the heart of the city.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Very Bikeable |
90Boulevard Park has a walkability score of 90 out of 100 |
50Boulevard Park has a transit score of 50 out of 100 |
70Boulevard Park has a drivability score of 70 out of 100 |
80Boulevard Park has a bikeability score of 80 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Many rentals in Boulevard Park are located in converted homes or smaller buildings, so modern amenities and in-unit laundry may be harder to find.
East Sacramento
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Sacramento: $1,576/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in East Sacramento: $1,573/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in East Sacramento: 621 square feet
Why East Sacramento is good for renters
East Sacramento offers a classic neighborhood feel with craftsman homes, green parks, and walkable streets. Renters enjoy proximity to coffee shops, restaurants, and bike paths—and the neighborhood is just a short drive or ride to Downtown. It’s a solid choice for renters who value charm and a strong sense of community.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
70East Sacramento has a walkability score of 70 out of 100 |
30East Sacramento has a transit score of 30 out of 100 |
70East Sacramento has a drivability score of 70 out of 100 |
60East Sacramento has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
Rental options in East Sacramento often come in the form of duplexes or older properties, which may offer less variety in floor plans and modern finishes.
Midtown Sacramento
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Sacramento: $1,576/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Midtown Sacramento: $1,593/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in Midtown Sacramento: 594 square feet
Why Midtown Sacramento is good for renters
Midtown Sacramento is the cultural hub of Sacramento. With art galleries, nightlife, restaurants, and music venues, this neighborhood is ideal for renters who want an active, walkable lifestyle. Apartment options range from historic buildings to modern mid-rises, and the overall vibe is creative and energetic.
|
Exceptionally Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Very Bikeable |
100Midtown Sacramento has a walkability score of 100 out of 100 |
50Midtown Sacramento has a transit score of 50 out of 100 |
70Midtown Sacramento has a drivability score of 70 out of 100 |
80Midtown Sacramento has a bikeability score of 80 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
With limited parking and a lively street scene, Midtown renters may find it easier to get around by bike, scooter, or public transit rather than relying on a car.
South Natomas
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Sacramento: $1,576/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in South Natomas: $1,530/month
- Average 1-bedroom size in South Natomas: 662 square feet
Why South Natomas is good for renters
Located just north of Downtown Sacramento, South Natomas offers a quieter residential atmosphere with convenient access to the city's major employment and entertainment hubs. Discovery Park is a major highlight, offering access to the American and Sacramento rivers, biking trails, and scenic green space. With Interstate 5 and Interstate 80 nearby, residents can easily reach Downtown Sacramento, the Sacramento International Airport, and surrounding neighborhoods.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
40South Natomas has a walkability score of 40 out of 100 |
30South Natomas has a transit score of 30 out of 100 |
90South Natomas has a drivability score of 90 out of 100 |
70South Natomas has a bikeability score of 70 out of 100 |
Keep in mind
South Natomas is largely car-dependent, with fewer walkable shopping and dining districts than Midtown or Downtown Sacramento. Some areas near the rivers are also prone to flooding, so renters should consider flood risks when comparing properties.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Sacramento has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place.
Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.
Methodology
Rent and cost of living data are sourced from the Apartments.com Rent Trends pages and Cost of Living Calculator. Walkability, transit, drivability, and bikeability ratings are sourced from the Apartments.com Area Guides, courtesy of Local Logic.
This article was originally published on December 12, 2025, and has been updated to reflect October 2026 data.
FAQs
Is Sacramento a good place to live?
Yes, Sacramento is a great place for renters who want a mix of city energy and small-town charm. With walkable neighborhoods, public parks, historic architecture, and access to the American River Parkway, Sacramento offers something for everyone.
Is Sacramento an expensive place to live?
Compared to California’s coastal cities, Sacramento is more affordable. Rent and cost of living are generally lower than in San Francisco or Los Angeles, though prices have risen in recent years due to high demand.
What’s the average rent in Sacramento?
The average rent in Sacramento is $1,576 per month, as of October 2026. This is about 5.5% below the national average rent of $1,667 per month.
What salary do you need to live in Sacramento?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult with no dependents to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Sacramento would be around $98,000 before taxes.
