Monterey County

Monterey County's cost of living is higher than the national average, primarily due to housing costs. Famous coastal cities like Monterey tend to have higher costs overall (58% higher than the national average) compared to lesser-known areas like Marina (32% higher) and Salinas (31% higher). However, the area offers a high quality of life with its stunning coasts and outdoor access. Those seeking apartments for rent in Monterey County, CA, can find a variety of options to choose from based on their needs and budget with Greystar.

Monterey County offers various transportation options throughout its cities. The Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) provides bus services throughout the Monterey Peninsula and surrounding areas. Longer trips can be done by rail with Amtrak's station in Salinas, which connects Monterey County to San Jose, San Francisco, and beyond to the north and as far south as San Diego.

For those looking for apartments in Monterey County, CA, many areas are also walkable and bike-friendly.

Monterey County couldn't be more connected to the great outdoors. Residents can enjoy kayaking, surfing, and whale watching in Monterey Bay. The Point Lobos State Natural Reserve offers hiking trails and stunning views. The region is also home to the world-famous Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park as well as lesser-known gems like Limekiln State Park, Sand Dollar Beach, and Pinnacles National Park.

For golfers looking for apartments for rent in Monterey County, CA, the Pebble Beach Gol Link is an absolute dream!

Within Monterey County, Monterey proper is the largest hub for young professionals. Specifically, Downtown Monterey and Cannery Row are ideal. These areas offer a lively atmosphere with proximity to restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. The Monterey Bay Aquarium and numerous tech companies make these neighborhoods appealing for career-focused individuals.

Monterey County is full of safe, family-oriented communities, especially along the coast. Pacific Grove and Carmel-By-The-Sea are especially charming cities on the Monterey Peninsula. These areas offer top-rated schools, safe streets, and plenty of parks for family outings. However, Marina and Salinas are great options for a lower cost of living while still having stunning coastal access and laid-back charm. Families looking for apartments in Monterey County, CA, will appreciate the community feel and proximity to beaches no matter where they choose.

Almost no place does seafood better than Monterey County! Try Passionfish's sustainable dishes in Pacific Grove or Marina's Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette and Old Fisherman's Grotto. More inland in Salinas, visit Rancho Cielo and the famous Steinbeck House. For breakfast, The Wild Plum Cafe and Bakery in Monterey proper is a local favorite.

Cannery Row in Monterey proper features local boutiques and souvenir shops, while the Del Monte Shopping Center in Monterey and Northridge Mall in Salinas provide a more traditional mall experience. For those living in downtown apartments, Alvarado Street in Monterey offers a charming shopping district with local businesses and art galleries, and Oldtown Salinas hosts a charming farmers market.

Absolutely! In general, California loves its furry companions, and Monterey County is no exception. Several Greystar apartments throughout the region welcome pets, including Pacifica Vista Apartments and Monterey Townhouse in Monterey, Schoonover Park in Marina, Cypress Crest in Salinas, and many more. Most major cities are sprinkled with dog parks, and the region's many outdoor areas are great for walks and hikes with your furry friend; just be sure to be mindful of exact use areas and on-leash rules.

Monterey County offers excellent education at all levels. The CSU Monterey Bay provides higher education opportunities with the Naval Postgraduate School and the Middlebury Institute of International Studies. For families in the area, the county has 24 districts and 126 public schools, as well as many charter options.

Monterey County enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, making it comfortable year-round. Summers are cool and dry on the coast, while inland regions experience warmer temperatures. For example, Monterey proper's summer highs range from the mid-60s to low 70s, while the inland city of San Lucas along US-101 easily reaches 85. Winters are mild with some rainfall. The coastal area experiences frequent fog, especially in the mornings, which contributes to its lush landscapes. This climate is ideal for outdoor activities and comfortable living.