Last Updated: May 09, 2025
Contact Information
Main Contact: Deborah Sims, Property Manager
Contact Phone: (510) 526-4000
Be aware that most listings for affordable housing have waiting lists. We encourage you to apply to as many as possible so we hope you will check the website once a month for new listings. To obtain an application contact the property manager or go to the property management office.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Affordable Housing?
- The listing I am interested in has a waitlist. How long are these waitlists, usually?
- What are immediate affordable housing opportunities in Alameda County (without waiting lists)?
- What is an SRO?
- How do I find a roommate situation?
- What is a sober living home?
- What is Transitional housing?
- What if I find an apartment that’s available next month, but I don’t have a place to stay until then?
- What if I can afford the rent, but I can’t afford the security deposit?
- I have an eviction or bad credit on my record. Are there still housing options for me?
- What if I don’t meet income qualifications?
- I have a disability. Do I have a right to a Reasonable Accommodation?
- What is Section 8? How do I get it?
- What is Public Housing?
- I have fallen behind on my rent. How can I get help?
- What is rent control? Do all cities in Alameda County have it?
- How does the developer decide if I am eligible for affordable housing and what is AMI?
- How do you calculate your household income?
Building Description
Ohlone Gardens
6495 Portola Drive, El Cerrito, CA 94530
Contact Leasing Agent: Deborah Sims, Property Manager
Contact Number: (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message
Email Address: ohlone@jsco.net
Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Deposits may be 1X the amount of rent-need to inquire. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Unit Description
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
3 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,946. Dep $1,946. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 50%
Minimum Income Limit: $4,865
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,946
Security Deposit: $1,946
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 3 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
3 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,738. Dep $1,738. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 45%
Minimum Income Limit: $4,345
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,738
Security Deposit: $1,738
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 3 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
3 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,083. Dep $1,083. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 30%
Minimum Income Limit: $2,708
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,083
Security Deposit: $1,083
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 3 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
2 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,696. Dep $1,696. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 50%
Minimum Income Limit: $4,240
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,696
Security Deposit: $1,696
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 2 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
2 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,516. Dep $1,516. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 45%
Minimum Income Limit: $3,790
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,516
Security Deposit: $1,516
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 2 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
2 Bdrm Apt - Rent $949. Dep $949. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 30%
Minimum Income Limit: $2,373
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $949
Security Deposit: $949
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 2 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
1 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,426. Dep $1,426. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 50%
Minimum Income Limit: $3,565
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,426
Security Deposit: $1,426
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 1 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None
Unit Description
1 Bdrm Apt - Rent $1,276. Dep $1,276. Min Income Requirement 2.5X the rent. Rent and deposit amounts are subject to change. Some units wheelchair accessible. WAIT LIST OPEN UNTIL MAY 14, 2025 AT 5:00 PM. Applicants can Apply Online or Download Application at https://housingbayarea.mtc.ca.gov/listing/98fa3538-f579-489e-bd99-a94c029587d9/ohlone_gardens_6495_portola_drive_el_cerrito_ca Units include: Bath, Refrigerator, Range and Oven, Dishwasher, kitchen w/energy efficient appliances, energy efficient windows, balcony. Property Amenities: Onsite Laundry, Balconies, Assigned Covered parking, Bicycle Storage Areas. Services Offered: Residents have access to on-site support services such as educational workshops, youth activities and community gatherings (at no cost to residents).
- Inquire regarding utilities paid.
- Credit Check is $28 per applicant age 18 and over. Due at interview.
- Section 8 Welcome.
- Section 8, including Housing Choice Vouchers and other recognized rental assistance programs, will be considered for this property. In the case of a valid rental subsidy, the required minimum income will be based on the portion of the rent that the tenant pays after use of the subsidy.
- No Cosigners.
- Inquire regarding the acceptance of previous evictions.
- All subsidies must be considered by all types of housing except for Section 8 project-based properties. https://www.dfeh.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2020/02/SourceofIncomeFAQ_ENG.pdf
- Near Public Transportation. Near schools and shops. Ohlone Gardens has convenient access to BART, AC Transit bus lines, nearby restaurants, retail shopping including the Moeser Lane Shopping Center, the Ohlone Greenway, the El Cerrito Swim Center, several playgrounds, and K-12 schools and close to Fairmont and Harding Elementary School, Fred T Koremastu and El Cerrito High School.
- Pets are allowed. Residents will be required to sign a pet agreement and provide a pet deposit.
- This is a Non-Smoking Building.
Contact (510) 526-4000, Due to high call volume, you may hear a message. Email: ohlone@jsco.net
Restrictions
Maximum Income Level AMI: 45%
Minimum Income Limit: $3,190
Unit Restricted For: No Restrictions
Family Status Restrictions: Not Restricted
Age Restrictions: Not Restricted
Pets Accepted: Bird, Cat, Dog
Rent and Fees
Monthly Rent or Percent of Income: $1,276
Security Deposit: $1,276
Unit Information
Unit Type: Apartment
Number of Bedrooms: 1 Bedroom
Number of Bathrooms: 1
Appliances Included: Coin Operated W/D, Refridgerator, Stove
Paid Utilities: None