Renting · Section 8
Data from November 2026
Renting in Monterey County, California
Monterey County has a HUD fair market rent of $2,416 a month for 2 bedrooms (Fiscal year 2027). Renter households here pay a typical rent of $2,055 a month (Average 2020–2024). Paying the fair market rent without going over 30% of income takes $46.46 an hour, full time.
Four numbers to start with
- Fair market rent, 2 bedrooms
- $2,416
- a month, HUD, Fiscal year 2027
- 8% less than in California
- Typical rent
- $2,055
- a month, Census, Average 2020–2024
- About the same as in California
- Wage needed
- $46.46
- an hour, 2 bedrooms
- Or $96,640 a year, to spend no more than 30% of income on rent.
- Rent-burdened households
- 56%
- spend 30% or more of income on rent
- About the same as in California
Only here
Renting in Monterey County: what sets it apart
What this place has that others do not, from public data, most unusual first.
-
At 52%, Monterey County ranks 3rd among the 58 counties in California for the lowest homeownership rate.
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Nearby, in Kings County, the typical rent is $1,331: 35% less than in Monterey County ($2,055).
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (Average 2020–2024).
Fair market rent
What HUD sets for each size
Every year HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) publishes a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for each home size in Monterey County. It is used to work out how much a Section 8 voucher covers. The table shows what you need to earn to pay it without spending more than 30% of income.
The fair market rent covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone. HUD generally sets it at the 40th percentile: 4 in 10 standard-quality homes rented recently cost less. 24 CFR §888.113(a)
According to Zillow (ZORI), the typical asking rent in Monterey County was $2,771 a month in September 2026: 0.8% more than 12 months ago. It is an index of market listings, not a HUD limit. Zillow data
| Size | Fair rent per month | Hourly wage | Income needed per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,956 | $37.62 | $78,240 |
| 1 bedroom | $2,009 | $38.63 | $80,360 |
| 2 bedrooms | $2,416 | $46.46 | $96,640 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,261 | $62.71 | $130,440 |
| 4 bedrooms | $3,551 | $68.29 | $142,040 |
HUD area: Salinas, CA MSA. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2027
By ZIP code
The fair market rent for your ZIP code
HUD also publishes fair market rents by ZIP code (Small Area FMRs) for 36 ZIP codes in Monterey County (Fiscal year 2027). Type yours to see it.
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,430 in 93426 to $3,420 in 93921. 36 ZIP codes are above the county's fair market rent ($2,416).
Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses. 24 CFR §982.503(a)(1)
| 93426 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,700 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 93426 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,700 |
| 93450 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93451 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,590 | $3,450 | $3,960 |
| 93451 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,590 | $3,450 | $3,960 |
| 93901 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93905 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93906 | Salinas, CA | $2,030 | $2,080 | $2,510 | $3,380 | $3,680 |
| 93907 | Salinas, CA | $2,070 | $2,150 | $2,540 | $3,420 | $3,730 |
| 93908 | Salinas, CA | $2,570 | $2,600 | $3,160 | $4,380 | $4,820 |
| 93920 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93921 | Salinas, CA | $2,770 | $2,890 | $3,420 | $4,490 | $4,890 |
| 93923 | Salinas, CA | $2,220 | $2,310 | $2,740 | $3,690 | $4,020 |
| 93924 | Salinas, CA | $2,160 | $2,220 | $2,680 | $3,600 | $3,920 |
| 93925 | Salinas, CA | $1,990 | $2,020 | $2,620 | $3,550 | $3,780 |
| 93925 | San Benito County, CA | $1,990 | $2,020 | $2,620 | $3,550 | $3,780 |
| 93926 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93927 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93928 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93930 | Salinas, CA | $1,990 | $2,020 | $2,620 | $3,550 | $3,780 |
| 93930 | San Benito County, CA | $1,990 | $2,020 | $2,620 | $3,550 | $3,780 |
| 93932 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93933 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93940 | Salinas, CA | $2,340 | $2,410 | $2,890 | $3,890 | $4,240 |
| 93943 | Salinas, CA | $2,200 | $2,360 | $2,790 | $3,590 | $3,820 |
| 93944 | Salinas, CA | $2,430 | $2,490 | $3,000 | $4,040 | $4,400 |
| 93950 | Salinas, CA | $2,600 | $2,670 | $3,210 | $4,320 | $4,710 |
| 93953 | Salinas, CA | $2,570 | $2,600 | $3,160 | $4,380 | $4,820 |
| 93954 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93955 | Salinas, CA | $2,070 | $2,120 | $2,550 | $3,440 | $3,750 |
| 93960 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 93962 | Salinas, CA | $2,570 | $2,600 | $3,160 | $4,380 | $4,820 |
| 95004 | Salinas, CA | $2,420 | $2,510 | $3,140 | $4,220 | $4,570 |
| 95004 | San Benito County, CA | $2,420 | $2,510 | $3,140 | $4,220 | $4,570 |
| 95012 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
| 95039 | Salinas, CA | $1,970 | $2,020 | $2,430 | $3,270 | $3,560 |
- 93426 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93426 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93450 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93451 · Salinas, CA $2,590$3,450
- 93451 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,590$3,450
- 93901 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93905 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93906 · Salinas, CA $2,510$3,380
- 93907 · Salinas, CA $2,540$3,420
- 93908 · Salinas, CA $3,160$4,380
- 93920 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93921 · Salinas, CA $3,420$4,490
- 93923 · Salinas, CA $2,740$3,690
- 93924 · Salinas, CA $2,680$3,600
- 93925 · Salinas, CA $2,620$3,550
- 93925 · San Benito County, CA $2,620$3,550
- 93926 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93927 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93928 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93930 · Salinas, CA $2,620$3,550
- 93930 · San Benito County, CA $2,620$3,550
- 93932 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93933 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93940 · Salinas, CA $2,890$3,890
- 93943 · Salinas, CA $2,790$3,590
- 93944 · Salinas, CA $3,000$4,040
- 93950 · Salinas, CA $3,210$4,320
- 93953 · Salinas, CA $3,160$4,380
- 93954 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93955 · Salinas, CA $2,550$3,440
- 93960 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 93962 · Salinas, CA $3,160$4,380
- 95004 · Salinas, CA $3,140$4,220
- 95004 · San Benito County, CA $3,140$4,220
- 95012 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
- 95039 · Salinas, CA $2,430$3,270
Source: Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) Fiscal year 2027 Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) (external site)
Rent burden
How many households spend too much
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Monterey County, 56% of renter households are in that position; in California, 55%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).
Paying too much rent leaves little for food, transportation and savings. If that is you, the agencies below can guide you for free.
56%
of renter households spend 30% or more of their income on rent.
63,496 households rent in Monterey County
- Spend half or more of their income 26%
- Spend 30% or more, but less than half 29%
- Spend less than 30% 44%
Compared with the state and the country
- Monterey 56%
- California 55%
- United States 51%
Low-income apartments
Low-income apartments in Monterey County
HUD lists 86 properties with homes for low-income households in Monterey County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC) and HUD-assisted buildings. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest.
- with tax credits (LIHTC)
- 71
- HUD-assisted
- 18
6,316 homes in all; 5,496 of them low-income, according to HUD.
- Gabilan Plaza Tax credit (LIHTC) 736 Williams Rd, Salinas 93905 200 homes, 197 low-income · 1 bd: 36 · 2 bd: 74 · 3 bd: 90 · In service since 2014
- Pacific Meadows Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 5315 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel 93923 200 homes, 189 low-income · Studio: 30 · 1 bd: 110 · 2 bd: 60 · In service since 2010 · For older adults · (831) 624-9355
- East Salinas Family Rad Tax credit (LIHTC) Scattered Sites, Salinas 93905 202 homes, 188 low-income · 1 bd: 35 · 2 bd: 86 · 3 bd: 63 · 4 bd: 18 · In service since 2017
- East Salinas Family RAD HUD-assisted 1011 E Laurel Dr, Salinas 93905 188 homes, 183 low-income · For families
- Salinas Pointe Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1260 John St, Salinas 93905 219 homes, 162 low-income · Studio: 3 · 1 bd: 91 · 2 bd: 61 · 3 bd: 8 · In service since 2004 · For families
- Salinas Family RAD HUD-assisted 1511 Wheeler Dr, Salinas 93906 170 homes, 158 low-income · For families
- Nantucket Bay Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 950 Nantucket Blvd, Salinas 93906 160 homes, 158 low-income · 2 bd: 70 · 3 bd: 70 · 4 bd: 20 · In service since 2002 · For families
- Salinas Family Rad Tax credit (LIHTC) 350 Casentini St, Salinas 93907 170 homes, 155 low-income · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 79 · 3 bd: 63 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2017
- Seaview Village Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 1775 Waring St, Seaside 93955 133 homes, 132 low-income · 1 bd: 16 · 2 bd: 36 · 3 bd: 39 · 4 bd: 42 · In service since 2019
- Montecito at Williams Ranch Tax credit (LIHTC) 1589 Mesquite Dr, Salinas 93905 132 homes, 130 low-income · 1 bd: 106 · 2 bd: 26 · In service since 2001 · For older adults
- Sherwood Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 808 N Main St, Salinas 93906 124 homes, 123 low-income · 1 bd: 102 · 2 bd: 22 · In service since 2008 · For older adults
- Regency Court Senior Tax credit (LIHTC) 472 Regency Cir, Salinas 93906 119 low-income homes · 1 bd: 96 · 2 bd: 24 · In service since 1996 · For older adults
- University Village Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 301 9th St, Marina 93933 108 homes, 107 low-income · 1 bd: 14 · 2 bd: 56 · 3 bd: 38 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Tynan Village Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 325 Front St, Salinas 93901 171 homes, 106 low-income · 1 bd: 18 · 2 bd: 55 · 3 bd: 82 · 4 bd: 16 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Gabilan Hills Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 1051 Paseo Grande, Salinas 93905 100 low-income homes · In service since 1995 · For families
- Steinbeck Commons Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 10 Lincoln Ave, Salinas 93901 100 low-income homes · 1 bd: 99 · In service since 1999 · For older adults · (831) 754-1918
- Hamilton, Ellis & Martin Plaza (H.E.M Plaza) HUD-assisted 1466 Yosemite St, Seaside 93955 192 homes, 98 low-income · For families · (831) 394-6685
- Harden Ranch Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1907 Dartmouth Way, Salinas 93906 100 homes, 98 low-income · 1 bd: 16 · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 48 · 4 bd: 16 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Salinas Bay Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 920 Larkin St, Salinas 93907 95 homes, 92 low-income · 2 bd: 25 · 3 bd: 60 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2000 · For families
- Plaza Grande Tax credit (LIHTC) 50 E Market St, Salinas 93901 92 homes, 91 low-income · Studio: 91 · 1 bd: 1 · In service since 2003
- Moon Gate Plaza Tax credit (LIHTC) 21 Soledad St, Salinas 93901 90 homes, 88 low-income · Studio: 81 · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 5 · In service since 2019 · For people with disabilities
- Tyler Park Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 1120 Heidi Dr, Greenfield 93927 88 homes, 87 low-income · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 44 · 4 bd: 24 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Hannon Assembled Apartments HUD-assisted 1773 Waring St, Seaside 93955 133 homes, 85 low-income · For families · (831) 899-2306
- Gabilan Family Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 730 San Pedro Way, Soledad 93960 84 homes, 80 low-income · 1 bd: 9 · 2 bd: 44 · 3 bd: 28 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Tresor Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1041 Buckhorn Dr, Salinas 93905 81 homes, 80 low-income · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 41 · 4 bd: 16 · In service since 2011 · For families
- Rippling River Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 53 E Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Valley 93924 79 homes, 78 low-income · Studio: 2 · 1 bd: 77 · In service since 2006 · For older adults
- Las Casas De Madera HUD-assisted 510 E Market St, Salinas 93905 75 low-income homes · For families · (831) 422-5131
- Benito Street Affordable Housing Community Tax credit (LIHTC) 439 Benito St, Soledad 93960 70 homes, 69 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 32 · 4 bd: 17 · In service since 2008 · For families
- South County Rad Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 48 C St, Gonzales 93926 70 homes, 68 low-income · 1 bd: 67 · 2 bd: 3 · In service since 2017 · For older adults, families
- Mountain View Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 1580 Falcon Dr, Salinas 93905 68 homes, 67 low-income · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 40 · 4 bd: 8 · In service since 2001 · For families
- Manzanita Place Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 17900 Kearny St, East Garrison 93933 65 low-income homes · 1 bd: 11 · 2 bd: 27 · 3 bd: 22 · 4 bd: 6 · In service since 2013 · For families, people experiencing homelessness
- Portola Vista (Monterey H) HUD-assisted 20 Del Monte Ave, Monterey 93940 64 low-income homes · For older adults · (831) 372-5057
- Walnut Grove Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 1002 Walnut Ave, Greenfield 93927 64 homes, 63 low-income · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 32 · 4 bd: 24 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Benito Street Farm Labor Center Tax credit (LIHTC) 439 Benito St, Soledad 93960 73 homes, 62 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 15 · 3 bd: 30 · 4 bd: 13 · In service since 2007 · For families
- Nuevo Amanecer Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 15 Salinas Rd, Royal Oaks 95076 63 homes, 62 low-income · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 22 · 3 bd: 30 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2006 · For families
- El Cerrito Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 8811 Vista De Tierra Cir, Castroville 95012 60 homes, 59 low-income · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 36 · 4 bd: 4 · In service since 2001 · For families
- Market Street Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 110 Market St, Soledad 93960 60 homes, 59 low-income · 2 bd: 28 · 3 bd: 22 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Sea Garden Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 10603 Axtell St, Castroville 95012 59 homes, 58 low-income · 2 bd: 32 · 3 bd: 27 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Cynara Court Tax credit (LIHTC) 10868 Merritt St, Castroville 95012 57 low-income homes · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 34 · 3 bd: 20 · In service since 2011 · For families
- King's Station Tax credit (LIHTC) 1245 Bedford Ave, King City 93930 57 homes, 56 low-income · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 25 · In service since 2014 · For families
- One Haciendas Tax credit (LIHTC) 233 Calle Cebu, Salinas 93901 52 low-income homes · 1 bd: 9 · 2 bd: 27 · 3 bd: 14 · 4 bd: 3 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Monterey Street Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1333 Monterey St, Soledad 93960 52 homes, 51 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 24 · 4 bd: 11 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Salinas Gateway Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 25 Lincoln Ave, Salinas 93901 52 homes, 51 low-income · Studio: 25 · 1 bd: 21 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2013 · For older adults
- Villa San Miguel Tax credit (LIHTC) 1201 Amherst Dr, King City 93930 50 low-income homes · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 24 · 4 bd: 16 · In service since 1995 · For families
- Haciendas 3 Tax credit (LIHTC) 60 E Rossi St, Salinas 93901 50 homes, 49 low-income · 1 bd: 19 · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 15 · In service since 2018 · For families
- San Vicente Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 250 San Vicente Rd, Soledad 93960 50 homes, 49 low-income · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 28 · 4 bd: 14 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Pacific Grove Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 650 Jewell Ave, Pacific Grove 93950 49 homes, 48 low-income · Studio: 8 · 1 bd: 34 · 2 bd: 7 · In service since 2006 · For older adults
- Terracina Oaks II Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 1276 Oak Ave, Greenfield 93927 48 homes, 47 low-income · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 24 · In service since 2016
- Junsay Oaks Senior Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 3098 De Forest Rd, Marina 93933 47 homes, 46 low-income · 1 bd: 47 · In service since 2019 · For older adults, people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness
- Las Jicamas Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 110 Martinez Pl, Soledad 93960 46 low-income homes · 2 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 38 · 4 bd: 4 · In service since 1999 · For families
- Haciendas Apartments II Tax credit (LIHTC) 275 Calle Cebu, Salinas 93901 46 homes, 45 low-income · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 17 · 4 bd: 3 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Castroville Farm Labor Center (FLC) Tax credit (LIHTC) 11220 Haight St, Castroville 95012 54 homes, 44 low-income · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 33 · 4 bd: 9 · In service since 2019 · For families
- Camphora Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 32101 McCoy Rd, Soledad 93960 44 homes, 43 low-income · 2 bd: 22 · 3 bd: 22 · In service since 2016 · For families
- Fanoe Road Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 550 Fanoe Rd, Gonzales 93926 44 homes, 43 low-income · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 9 · 3 bd: 21 · 4 bd: 8 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Plaza Club Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 100 Harden Pkwy, Salinas 93906 208 homes, 42 low-income · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 28 · 3 bd: 8 · In service since 1998
- Terracina Oaks Apts (greenfield) Tax credit (LIHTC) 252 13th St, Greenfield 93927 41 homes, 40 low-income · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 17 · 4 bd: 8 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Soledad Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 530 Andalucia Dr, Soledad 93960 40 low-income homes · In service since 1994 · For older adults
- Vineyard Green Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 130 13th St, Greenfield 93927 40 homes, 39 low-income · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 18 · 3 bd: 18 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2010 · For families
- Walnut Place Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 500 12th St, Greenfield 93927 40 homes, 39 low-income · 2 bd: 18 · 3 bd: 20 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2006 · For families
- Marina Manor Tax credit (LIHTC) 3082 Sunset Ave, Marina 93933 39 low-income homes · In service since 1995 · For older adults
- Canyon Creek Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 1834 Chablis Way, Gonzales 93926 36 homes, 35 low-income · 2 bd: 14 · 3 bd: 16 · 4 bd: 6 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Magnolia Place Senior Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 92 12th St, Greenfield 93927 32 homes, 31 low-income · 1 bd: 26 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2015 · For older adults
- Tyler Park Townhomes II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1120 Heidi Dr, Greenfield 93927 30 low-income homes · In service since 1996 · For families
- Villa Santa Clara Tax credit (LIHTC) 225 3rd St, Greenfield 93927 30 low-income homes · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 10 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 1992 · For families
- Gonzales Family RAD HUD-assisted 133 8th St, Gonzales 93926 30 homes, 29 low-income · For families
- Moro Lindo Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 8700 Sabino Dr, Castroville 95012 30 homes, 29 low-income · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 18 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2001 · For families
- Gonzales Family Rad Tax credit (LIHTC) Scattered Sites, Gonzales 93926 30 homes, 28 low-income · 1 bd: 6 · 3 bd: 12 · 4 bd: 12 · In service since 2017
- Tyler Park Townhomes III Tax credit (LIHTC) 1120 Heidi Dr, Greenfield 93927 28 low-income homes · 2 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 14 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 1996 · For families
- Plaza Hotel Tax credit (LIHTC) 30 E Market St, Salinas 93901 27 low-income homes · In service since 1994
- El Estero HUD-assisted 151 Park Ave, Monterey 93940 26 low-income homes · For older adults
- Los Abuelitos Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 528 E Market St, Salinas 93905 25 homes, 24 low-income · 1 bd: 25 · In service since 2006 · For older adults
- La Gloria Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 539 E Market St, Salinas 93905 23 homes, 22 low-income · 1 bd: 23 · In service since 2011 · For older adults
- Roosevelt Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 522 Roosevelt St, Salinas 93905 22 low-income homes · In service since 1997 · For families
- Roosevelt Street Townhomes II Tax credit (LIHTC) 504 Roosevelt St, Salinas 93905 22 homes, 21 low-income · 3 bd: 22 · In service since 1999 · For families
- Lupine Gardens Apartments HUD-assisted 306 Soledad St, Salinas 93901 21 homes, 20 low-income · For people with disabilities · (831) 751-1905
- Rockrose Gardens HUD-assisted 3012 Lexington Ct, Marina 93933 21 homes, 20 low-income · For people with disabilities · (831) 649-4522
- Mariposa Apartments HUD-assisted 300 Casentini St, Salinas 93907 20 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (831) 649-4376
- Van Buren Senior Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 669 Van Buren St, Monterey 93940 19 homes, 18 low-income · 1 bd: 19 · In service since 2018 · For older adults
- Lightfighter Village HUD-assisted 229 Hayes Cir, Marina 93933 71 homes, 17 low-income · For people with disabilities
- Dela Vina Apartments HUD-assisted 345 Dela Vina Ave, Monterey 93940 14 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (831) 646-2220
- Montecito/Watson HUD-assisted 242 Montecito Ave, Monterey 93940 13 low-income homes · For families
- Catalyst Apartments HUD-assisted 235 Martella St, Salinas 93901 12 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (831) 649-4522
- Casa de los Robles Tax credit (LIHTC) 504 W Franklin St, Monterey 93940 6 low-income homes · In service since 1995
- Addington Way Homes Tax credit (LIHTC) 288 Addington Ln, Salinas 93907 2 low-income homes · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2000
- La Casa Grande Tax credit (LIHTC) 353 Ventana Ave, Greenfield 93927 1 low-income home · In service since 1996 · For families
- Gabilan Plaza 3 Tax credit (LIHTC) 736 Williams Rd, Salinas 93905 198 homes
3 properties have two programs at the same address and appear once. Search HUD's map
Source: HUD, retrieved November 6, 2026. LIHTC database, updated May 14, 2025; Assisted multifamily properties, updated October 23, 2026; Public housing developments, updated October 23, 2026.
Section 8
The Section 8 voucher in Monterey County
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) pays part of your rent on a home you choose. Your public housing agency runs it. 1 agency serves in Monterey County. Here is what the rules say:
The rules, with their source
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You apply at the public housing agency. If you qualify, your name usually goes on a waiting list. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or noncitizens with eligible status as HUD defines it. Source: HUD
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Generally, your family must have very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income, by family size (the middle column of the table). Source: 24 CFR §5.603, §982.201(b)
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Each year, at least 75% of the families an agency admits from its list must have extremely low income (the 30% column). Source: 24 CFR §982.201(b)(2)
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If the rent is below the payment standard, the family generally pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. If it is above, the family pays more. Source: 24 CFR §982.1(a)(3)
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When you move in, if the rent is above the payment standard, your share cannot go over 40% of your adjusted monthly income. Source: 24 CFR §982.508
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Each agency sets a payment standard for each size. Without asking HUD, it can go from 90% to 110% of the fair market rent. Source: 24 CFR §982.503(b), (c)
| People | Extremely low (30%) | Very low (50%) | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $32,850 | $54,750 | $87,600 |
| 2 people | $37,550 | $62,600 | $100,100 |
| 3 people | $42,250 | $70,400 | $112,600 |
| 4 people | $46,900 | $78,200 | $125,100 |
| 5 people | $50,700 | $84,500 | $135,150 |
| 6 people | $54,450 | $90,750 | $145,150 |
| 7 people | $58,200 | $97,000 | $155,150 |
| 8 people | $61,950 | $103,250 | $165,150 |
Area median income: $110,500. HUD income limits by family size, Fiscal year 2026. Area: Salinas, CA MSA. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2026
Possible payment standard
- Studio $1,760 – $2,152
- 1 bedroom $1,808 – $2,210
- 2 bedrooms $2,174 – $2,658
- 3 bedrooms $2,935 – $3,587
- 4 bedrooms $3,196 – $3,906
The range the rule allows: 90% to 110% of the county's fair market rent. Your agency publishes its own.
Housing agencies that serve this place
- Housing Authority of the County of Monterey Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 4,852 vouchers (831) 775-5000 Housing Authority of the County of Monterey: zboykin@hamonterey.org
Housing agencies in California Source: HUD, Retrieved November 6, 2026
Your rights as a tenant in California
What California law says about deposits, notices and eviction, with the citation for each rule.
See your rights, rule by ruleCompare these rules with other states →
A summary of state law, not legal advice. Cities may have additional rules.
- How much can they charge for a deposit?
- Up to 1 month of rent
- Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5(c)(1), (c)(4)
- When must they return my deposit?
- 21 days
- Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5
- If I fall behind on rent, what notice must I get?
- 3 court days
- Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §1161(2)
- How much notice ends a month-to-month rental?
- 30 or 60 days, depending on the case
- Cal. Civ. Code §1946.1(b), (c)
- Only a court order can remove youCal. Civ. Code §789.3
- Protection from retaliationCal. Civ. Code §1942.5
- Protection related to immigration statusCal. Civ. Code §1940.3
Help
Where to get help with rent in Monterey County
HUD lists no counseling agencies near in Monterey County. Free legal aid and your housing agency can guide you.
Rental assistance programs
The ones that serve in Monterey County or the whole state, with what each page says about being open.
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Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): energy bill help
Run by California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD)
One-time payment from the federal LIHEAP program in California to help with your heating or cooling bill, or if your service is about to be shut off
Limited funds remain, per the source
See details
Tool
How much cash do you need to move in?
It starts with the 2-bedroom fair market rent in Monterey County. Change the rent, the deposit and the fees to yours: the numbers stay in your browser.
Count power on top of the rent: in California, the average home bill was $161 a month in 2024 (EIA). See electricity and gas costs
Your move
We use the place's fair market rent and the state's deposit rule.
Adjust advanced details
Let's do the math
Cash to move in
$4,832
What you need before you get the keys.
What adds up
- First month
- $2,416
- Security deposit
- $2,416
- Total
- $4,832
When you'll have it
Enter what you can set aside each month to see how long it takes.
What helps
- Ask for a receipt for every payment and keep a copy of the lease.
- On move-in day, walk through the home and take dated photos.
- Never send money for a home you haven't seen or a lease you haven't read.
This is a planning estimate, not a price. What you are asked for depends on the landlord, your lease and your state's and city's rules. It is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fair market rent in Monterey County?
According to HUD (Fiscal year 2027): Studio: $1,956; 1 bedroom: $2,009; 2 bedrooms: $2,416; 3 bedrooms: $3,261; 4 bedrooms: $3,551. It covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone.
How much do you need to earn to rent in Monterey County?
Paying the 2-bedroom fair market rent ($2,416) without spending more than 30% of income takes $46.46 an hour full time, or $96,640 a year.
Who qualifies for Section 8 in Monterey County?
Generally, families with very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income. For 4 people, HUD's limit here is $78,200 a year (Fiscal year 2026). The family usually pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. You apply at the housing agency.
How much does Section 8 pay in Monterey County?
The voucher pays up to your housing agency's payment standard, minus your share. The rule lets the agency set it between 90% and 110% of the fair market rent: for 2 bedrooms here, between $2,174 and $2,658 a month. Your agency publishes its figure.
Does the fair market rent change by ZIP code in Monterey County?
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,430 in 93426 to $3,420 in 93921. Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses.
How many low-income apartments are there in Monterey County?
HUD lists 86 properties with homes for low-income households in Monterey County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC) and HUD-assisted buildings. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest. For tax-credit apartments and HUD-assisted buildings, you apply directly at the building's management office. They tell you whether units are open and how to apply; HUD does not have that information.
How many households spend too much on rent in Monterey County?
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Monterey County, 56% of renter households are in that position; in California, 55%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).