While BP has a rent estimator as does rentometer.com (both allow a few free uses, I believe), I agree with @Zachary Deal that your best bet is to seek out guidance from either the listing agent or a property manager well-versed with the area. 

I’m a real estate professional, and we benefit from tax strategies.Would you sell or keep renting?

California's housing prices are too high for our budget, and I'm at a loss.I'm seeking your advice on alternative ways to use these funds for good.

Perhaps with a sample property of the type we are seeking.  

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

Readers should seek professional advice.

Readers should seek professional advice.

Depreciation can create paper losses to offset rental income or passive income, and qualifying as a Real Estate Professional (REPS) or STR loophole can allow losses to offset W-2 income.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

For example, certain states like CA and MA have "claw-back" provisions, some states have withholding requirements, PA has some funky 1031 exchange laws, etc.Work with a rockstar QI (like @Dave Foster) and a real-estate-savvy tax professional to ensure you don't fall into any traps.