San Luis Obispo vs Santa Cruz-Watsonville
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
San Luis Obispo is 8% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,623/mo vs $1,760/mo in Santa Cruz-Watsonville — saving $1,644/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | San Luis Obispo | Santa Cruz-Watsonville | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,065 | $1,172 | $107 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,360 | $1,475 | $115 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,623 | $1,760 | $137 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,039 | $2,195 | $156 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,372 | $2,530 | $158 |
| Median Income | $94,761 | $89,493 | $5,268 |
San Luis Obispo
- Studio
- $1,065/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,360/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,623/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,039/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,372/mo
- Median Income
- $94,761/yr
Santa Cruz-Watsonville
- Studio
- $1,172/mo
- 1 BR
- $1,475/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,760/mo
- 3 BR
- $2,195/mo
- 4 BR
- $2,530/mo
- Median Income
- $89,493/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Luis Obispo or Santa Cruz-Watsonville cheaper to rent in?
San Luis Obispo is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,623/mo vs $1,760/mo in Santa Cruz-Watsonville. That's $137/mo or $1,644/year more expensive in Santa Cruz-Watsonville (8% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in San Luis Obispo vs Santa Cruz-Watsonville?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in San Luis Obispo is $1,623/month. In Santa Cruz-Watsonville, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,760/month.
How do incomes compare between San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz-Watsonville?
The median household income in San Luis Obispo is $94,761/year. In Santa Cruz-Watsonville it is $89,493/year. San Luis Obispo has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in San Luis Obispo vs Santa Cruz-Watsonville?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in San Luis Obispo is $1,065/mo. In Santa Cruz-Watsonville it is $1,172/mo.