2

Boulder Creek, CA Homes for Rent

Section Image
  • /16

    $1,900 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • Condo for Rent

    13129-13129 Hazel Ave Unit 13127, Boulder Creek, CA 95006

    13129-13129 Hazel Ave Unit 13127, Boulder Creek, CA 95006
  • /30

    $2,800 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,040 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    175 S Redwood Dr, Boulder Creek, CA 95006

    Available now!! Serene, private unfurnished 2+ bedroom, 1 bathroom single-family home located just one mile from downtown Boulder Creek. This light-filled two-story residence features an open upstairs living area with cathedral ceilings, expansive skylights, and full-height picture windows that create a bright and airy atmosphere. The home offers a 144 sq ft upstairs bedroom, a sizable 250 sq ft

    175 S Redwood Dr, Boulder Creek, CA 95006

Why Live in Boulder Creek

Boulder Creek, California, is a rural mountain town near Silicon Valley, known for its slower pace of life and scenic surroundings. The town serves as the gateway to Big Basin Redwoods State Park, featuring dense woodlands and steep hills. Central Avenue, the main street, is lined with mom-and-pop shops and local restaurants, reflecting the town's historic boomtown architecture. Boulder Creek's proximity to San Jose and Silicon Valley makes it a popular choice for commuters, though its remote location can present challenges, especially during the rainy winter months. Community parks like Junction Park and the Boulder Creek Recreation Center provide recreational options, while nearby state parks offer extensive hiking, biking, and swimming opportunities. The town's downtown area features a variety of dining options, including Joe’s Bar, Taqueria Los Gallos, Tae’s Edo Sushi Bar, Boulder Creek Pizza & Pub, and Scopazzi’s Restaurant and Lounge. Local events such as the Fourth of July parade, Halloween trick-or-treating, and the Boulder Creek Art, Wine and Music Festival foster a strong sense of community. Boulder Creek students attend highly rated schools in the San Lorenzo Valley Unified School District, including Boulder Creek Elementary School, San Lorenzo Valley Middle School, and San Lorenzo Valley High School. The town is about 28 miles from downtown San Jose and 14 miles from the Santa Cruz boardwalk, with public transit options available via Santa Cruz Metro bus lines. While Boulder Creek offers a picturesque setting, residents must be prepared for wildfire risks and heavy winter rains that can lead to road closures and power outages.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Boulder Creek, CA?
The median rent for a home in Boulder Creek, CA is $2,800 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of May 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Boulder Creek, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Boulder Creek, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $112,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $2,800 per month in Boulder Creek, CA, renters typically need to show $8,400 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Boulder Creek, CA?
In Boulder Creek, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 20.8, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Boulder Creek, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Boulder Creek, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Western Drive-Nobel, West Los Gatos, East Los Gatos, San Tomas and Calabazas, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends in Boulder Creek, CA

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
2
Median Rent
$2,800
Median Single Family Home Rent
$3,000
Median Condo Rent
$2,250
How to Rent a Home