Average Rent in Humboldt County, CA
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 135,418
Market Overview
Humboldt County, CA has rental prices ranging from $1,122/month to $2,597/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,188/month — 15% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $61,135/year, spending $1,188/month on a 1-bedroom represents 23% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Humboldt County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,554/month, Humboldt County ranks #31 most expensive of the 52 cities tracked in California — pricier than 90% of all US cities in our data.
The Humboldt County Rental Market
The Humboldt County, CA area has a population of about 135,418 and 44% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Humboldt County, CA have risen by $4/month (0.3%) over the past year, from $1,550 to $1,554. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Humboldt County, CA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $47,520. The local median household income of $61,135 exceeds that threshold by $13,615, making Humboldt County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Humboldt County, CA has an unemployment rate of 5.3%, 1.4 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Neighborhoods
Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Humboldt County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Shelter Cove ($364,368 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Humboldt County, CA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in CAlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $2,151 | $2,402 | $2,964 | $3,760 | — |
| Santa Ana | $2,580 | $2,610 | $3,057 | $4,153 | — |
| Oakland | $2,088 | $2,290 | $2,805 | $3,592 | — |
| San Francisco | $2,574 | $3,003 | $3,697 | $4,832 | — |
| Riverside | $1,605 | $1,705 | $2,103 | $2,771 | — |
| San Diego | $2,192 | $2,335 | $2,823 | $3,743 | — |
Rent or Buy in Humboldt County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Humboldt County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Humboldt County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Humboldt CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in CASee how Humboldt County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Humboldt CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
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