Santa Cruz, CA Rent History
126 months of data, 2016–2026. Source: ZORI (Zillow Observed Rent Index, smoothed seasonally adjusted).
Today (2026-09)
$3,418
1-year change
+4.0%
$130/mo
5-year change
+22.6%
$630/mo
10-year change
+66.6%
$1,366/mo
Monthly rent trend
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Year-by-year rent in Santa Cruz
| Year | Median rent | YoY change | vs 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $2,011/mo | — | 0.0% |
| 2017 | $2,131/mo | +6.0% | +6.0% |
| 2018 | $2,369/mo | +11.2% | +17.8% |
| 2019 | $2,429/mo | +2.5% | +20.8% |
| 2020 | $2,474/mo | +1.9% | +23.0% |
| 2021 | $2,599/mo | +5.1% | +29.2% |
| 2022 | $2,944/mo | +13.3% | +46.4% |
| 2023 | $3,142/mo | +6.7% | +56.2% |
| 2024 | $3,234/mo | +2.9% | +60.8% |
| 2025 | $3,287/mo | +1.6% | +63.5% |
| 2026 | $3,346/mo | +1.8% | +66.4% |
Frequently asked questions
How much has rent in Santa Cruz changed since 2016?
Median rent in Santa Cruz, CA was $2,018 in 2016-03 and is $3,418 as of 2026-09 — a change of $1,400 per month over 10 years.
How much has Santa Cruz rent increased in the last 5 years?
Over the past 5 years, median rent in Santa Cruz, CA has changed +22.6% ($630 per month). The current median is $3,418.
What has rent in Santa Cruz done over the past decade?
Over the past 10 years, median rent in Santa Cruz, CA has changed +66.6% ($1,366 per month). It is now $3,418.
Is rent in Santa Cruz going up or down year over year?
Year over year, median rent in Santa Cruz, CA has increased +4.0% ($130/mo). Current median: $3,418.