What to Expect for Average Rent in Redondo Beach, CA in 2026

The median home sale price in Redondo Beach, CA, sits around $1,533,500 as of mid-2026. Buyers typically work with the best real estate agent in Redondo Beach, CA to find these properties. With homes selling in just 39 days on average, many prospective residents look to the rental market instead of buying. Renting provides immediate access to the South Bay without requiring a massive down payment or a long-term mortgage commitment.

Leasing a property in this coastal city still requires a substantial monthly budget. Prices vary widely depending on the neighborhood, the size of the unit, and proximity to the water. Review exactly what different property types cost before submitting rental applications.

Monthly Rent Costs Across Redondo Beach

The average rent for an apartment in Redondo Beach ranges from $3,116 to $3,760 per month. This puts local leasing costs roughly 93% higher than the national average. A standard lease at these rates typically requires a household income well over six figures.

Landlords generally require applicants to show a gross monthly income of at least three times the rent. For a median-priced unit, qualifying annual incomes range from roughly $112,000 to $135,000. Recent real estate market data shows steady demand for available listings, keeping these baseline prices firm compared to the previous year.

Pricing by Apartment Size and Property Type

Studio apartments in the city currently rent for $1,725 to $2,273 per month. These smaller units offer the most affordable entry point into the local market. Renters looking for a 1-bedroom apartment will see prices jump to a range of $2,495 to $2,525 per month.

Adding a second bedroom pushes the monthly cost higher, with 2-bedroom apartments averaging between $3,100 and $3,472. Renters who need even more space face a steep increase if they transition from an apartment building to a standalone property.

Leasing a single-family house in Redondo Beach costs between $5,995 and $9,000 or more per month. These properties often include private yards and garages, but they require a significantly larger deposit. Weigh the extra square footage against the premium price tag.

Comparing Rents in North and South Redondo

The Pacific Coast Highway and 190th Street generally divide the city into two distinct rental markets. South Redondo commands the highest rents in the city. This area features oceanfront condos and walkable blocks near the Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor.

North Redondo Beach provides slightly lower rental rates and a different housing style. This section of the city features more residential townhome-style units and multi-family complexes. It also sits further inland, which removes the immediate beach access but improves commute times.

Renters in North Redondo enjoy faster driving access to I-405, Silicon Beach, and El Segundo. Focus searches south of 190th Street to secure ocean views. Those who want more square feet for their dollar often find better options in the northern neighborhoods.

Budgeting for Utilities and Transit

Monthly utility bills for Redondo Beach residents run about 9% higher than the national median. Standard lease agreements typically exclude electricity, gas, water, and trash, though some apartment complexes include water and trash in the base rent. Ask landlords exactly which services are billed separately before signing a lease.

Transportation expenses also add to the overall cost of living. Gas and transit costs in this area sit about 38% higher than the national average. Most residents rely on personal vehicles to get to work, using the Pacific Coast Highway or I-405.

The Metro C Line provides a public transit alternative for commuters heading toward Downtown Los Angeles or the airport. Drive times to major job markets like Silicon Beach vary based on traffic, but living near major arterial roads helps shorten the trip.

Schools, Parks, and Healthcare Access

The Redondo Beach Unified School District manages public education for residents across the city. Renters often factor specific school boundaries into their neighborhood search before choosing a lease. The district operates multiple elementary schools, two middle schools, and one main high school.

The city maintains a large network of public recreation spaces. Residents have access to Dominguez Park, Veterans Park, and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs directly along the coastline. These outdoor areas provide year-round recreation without requiring a private gym membership.

Healthcare access is centralized around the Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center. This major hospital provides emergency services and specialized care right within the city limits. Renters can find primary care clinics and urgent care centers scattered throughout both the north and south sections of town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average rent in Redondo Beach, CA?

Expect base prices to start around $3,116, while luxury or oceanfront units push the citywide average closer to $3,760. Focus your search north of 190th Street to locate more affordable square footage away from the immediate shoreline.

What salary do I need to afford rent in Redondo Beach, CA?

Calculate your budget using the standard 30% rule, which suggests dedicating no more than one-third of gross income to housing. For a $3,500 two-bedroom apartment, aim for a gross monthly household income of at least $10,500 to comfortably pass landlord screening.

How does Redondo Beach rent compare to other cities or the national average?

While local rates far exceed national figures, they remain competitive with neighboring Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach. Tenants moving from major urban centers like San Francisco or New York often find similar pricing but gain larger square footage and immediate coastal access.

What is the cost of living in Redondo Beach, CA?

Food, entertainment, and healthcare expenses add a premium on top of monthly rent. Factor in local sales tax and California state income tax when determining your true take-home pay before signing a coastal lease.

Is it cheaper to rent an apartment in North Redondo or South Redondo Beach?

Historical data consistently shows the 90278 ZIP code offering a lower price per square foot than the 90277 area. Evaluate your daily commute, as the savings inland might offset the cost of driving to the beach on weekends.

What are the typical move-in costs and hidden utility fees for Redondo Beach rentals?

Prepare to pay a security deposit equal to one or two months of rent, depending on credit history and property type. Application fees, pet deposits, and mandatory renter's insurance policies also increase the total cash needed at lease signing.