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Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Q: Are rent prices dropping in San Diego?

San Diego rental costs are down 3.1% year-over-year . Still, outside factors such as job growth, low housing inventory, and the city’s desirability indicate the trend is unlikely to continue.

Q: Why is it so expensive to rent in San Diego?

There are two reasons for higher rents in San Diego . First, a limited supply of deed-restricted affordable rental units forces tenants to pay market rates for housing. Second, many San Diego suburbs like La Jolla and Mission Bar are within walking distance of the beach. This proximity makes them highly desirable areas, increasing the competition.

1,307 rentals available

Vera Cortez Hill
$1,889
1399 9th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 393-9014
Rent Savings
25 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, Stainless steel, Gym + more
Recently updated units
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5.0
Cielo
915 West Grape Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(301) 857-5163
$2,200+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Entire experience at Cielo has been wonderful. Management is great, location unbeatable, amenities are awesome, building itself is very sexy. As for the units: unique layouts, high ceilings, AC, in-unit washer dyers, great natural light, and views of the harbor. Coming from PB, it's been game-changing.”
8 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Rooftop Views
Elevated Living with Stunning Bay Views
Cielo offers an elevated living experience with stunning rooftop views of San Diego Bay. It is conveniently located with easy access to Waterfront Park, local restaurants, and the vibrant Little Italy Farmers Market. The pet-friendly environment and close proximity to a nearby park make it perfect for dog owners.
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The Hub
$2,938
9840 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92131
(858) 302-4173
Rent Savings
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Luxurious Retreat
Modern living with abundant amenities in a prime location.
The Hub offers a luxurious community experience with modern, well-equipped units featuring top-of-the-line appliances. The numerous amenities, such as the resort-style pool and fitness center, provide ample reasons to relax and stay active. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and major highways, The Hub ensures residents enjoy easy access to all essentials.
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iL Palazzo
$2,635
2040 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 202-8631
Rent Savings
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Vibrant Locale
Boutique community in Little Italy's heart
Experience the vibrant lifestyle of Little Italy with iL Palazzo. Residents rave about the unbeatable location offering proximity to dining, shopping, and entertainment. With a variety of cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues just steps away, you'll enjoy the best of San Diego. The beautifully maintained units and friendly management team ensure a seamless living experience.
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Bradbury at The Society
$2,747
610 Del Sol Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 251-6811
Rent Savings
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Modern Comfort
Convenient luxury living in Mission Valley.
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Mission Valley, Bradbury at The Society offers effortless luxury living. Experience the convenience of keyless entry and Nest technology in modern apartments designed with high-quality finishes. Residents love the resort-style amenities like the pool and fitness center that create a deluxe lifestyle right at home.
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The Seaton
$3,650
1302 Frankfort St, San Diego, CA 92110
(858) 766-6805
7 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Vibrant Community
Charming Home Amid Thriving Bay Park
Nestled in the vibrant Bay Park neighborhood, The Seaton offers exceptional connectivity across San Diego. This pet-friendly community features scenic views, including water vistas and SeaWorld fireworks, and a superb amenity package with a clean pool and well-maintained gym that residents rave about. Nearby, enjoy award-winning eateries and abundant outdoor activities, making for an exciting lifestyle.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
5.0
Valentina by Alta
1919 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 568-2317
$2,666+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Great place with great people”
11 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Chic Location
Prime spot in Little Italy, embrace vibrant San Diego life.
Valentina by Alta presents a fantastic opportunity to live in the chic Little Italy neighborhood. Residents rave about its prime location near the San Diego Bay, offering easy access to top-rated restaurants and stylish boutiques. Unmatched amenities like a pool, yoga studio, and business center enhance the everyday living experience, and the welcoming pet-friendly policy makes it a perfect choice for pet owners.
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The Presidio Apartments
$1,508
3350 Rosecrans Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 483-2815
4 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Cable included + more
Coastal Paradise
Cost-effective living near beaches and shopping!
The Presidio Apartments provide a wonderful living experience with cost-effective pricing below the metropolitan average. Located in the charming Point Loma Peninsula, residents enjoy being within walking distance of beaches, shops, and a vibrant dining scene. The property warmly welcomes pets, making it perfect for animal lovers, and offers a host of amenities including a pool and air conditioning.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
5.0
K1
330 13th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 597-1598
$2,147+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Amazing apartment with amazing staff”
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Luxury Living
Downtown's resort-style oasis with unbeatable amenities.
Experience the epitome of luxury living at K1, nestled in vibrant Downtown San Diego. With a prime location near Petco Park and the Gaslamp District, entertainment and dining are always at your fingertips. Residents rave about the resort-style amenities, especially the saltwater pool and 24-hour gym, and appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere that welcomes both dogs and cats.
Recently updated units
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Purl
$2,629
7901 Civita Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92108
(717) 373-2124
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Golf room, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Resort Lifestyle
Luxury living with resort-style amenities and scenic surroundings.
Enjoy luxury living with resort-style amenities at Purl in Mission Valley, San Diego. Steps away from a 14-acre park and near vibrant shopping and dining, this pet-friendly community combines urban convenience with serene home experiences. Cats and dogs are welcome, making it a perfect choice for pet lovers.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Gramercy
$2,209
9072 Gramercy Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
(330) 615-6842
18 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Pool, and Accessible
Community Charm
Well-maintained amenities in a serene neighborhood.
Experience the perfect blend of community and convenience at Gramercy. Residents love its prime location, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and transportation. The property boasts well-maintained amenities such as a fitness center and pool that enhance the living experience. Additionally, cats are welcomed, making it an ideal home for feline enthusiasts.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
Jefferson at Carmel Mountain
11832 Stoney Peak Drive, San Diego, CA 92128
(619) 202-8258
$2,432+ moTotal price12-mo lease
20 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Pet Paradise
Comfy living with easy shopping and dining access.
Jefferson at Carmel Mountain boasts spacious, well-designed apartments that appeal to residents, featuring large kitchens and walk-in closets. Ideal for pet lovers, both cats and dogs are welcome, with plenty of nearby green spaces and dog parks. The location offers the convenience of being within walking distance to shopping centers, grocery stores, and dining options, enhancing everyday living.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
Verified
5.0
Circa 37
$2,859
7800 Westside Drive, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 356-2272
Top rated for Location
“I have been living at Circa 37 for 7 months and I absolutely love it. It is clean, the grounds are beautiful and it is very quiet.”
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Community Charm
Vibrant Community and Modern Living in San Diego
Circa 37 offers a lifestyle that combines community charm with modern amenities in Eastern San Diego. Residents enjoy the stylish apartments equipped with high-quality features and the welcoming environment fostered by friendly, professional staff. With a plethora of dining, parks, and entertainment options within a mile, this location ensures a vibrant daily experience.
Recently updated units
Verified listing
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West Park Apartments
$2,423
7777 Westside Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 357-4987
56 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Vibrant Community
Engaging social events and top-notch amenities.
West Park Apartments offer a vibrant social atmosphere with events like outdoor movie nights and pool parties. Residents rave about the friendly and attentive staff who provide personalized service. The location is perfect for accessing local conveniences such as Starbucks and the beach, all within a short drive. Amenities like multiple saltwater pools and a well-equipped gym enhance the living experience.
Recently updated units
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The Reserve At 4s Ranch
$2,351
10411 Reserve Drive, San Diego, CA 92127
(619) 356-2391
Rent Savings
15 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Pet Paradise
Convenient living in serene community.
Nestled in the heart of 4S Ranch, The Reserve offers a serene, community-driven experience. Residents enjoy easy access to numerous restaurants, parks, and schools within walking distance. With upscale amenities and a welcoming pet-friendly atmosphere, this is a desirable location for those looking for convenience and peace.
Recently updated units
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Cityview SD
840 17th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 332-3305
$1,896+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
11 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Cost-Effective Luxury
Stunning city views from Cityview SD
Cityview SD in Downtown San Diego offers luxurious living at a cost-effective rate, priced 22% below the metro average. Residents enjoy the stunning city views and the comfort of modern amenities like a rooftop sundeck, granite countertops, and hardwood floors. This pet-friendly community boasts an on-site dog park, making it ideal for pet owners.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,133+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,919+. Rent rates updated 2 days ago

Studio: $2,609+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,133+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,919+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,807+Trending up

* Averages are based on the rental prices of properties listed on Apartment List that don’t include fees

Top neighborhoods in San Diego

College East

What it’s like to live in College East

Navy families and SDSU grad students share 1960s courtyard units. Naval Medical Center proximity ensures military discounts but 5AM reveille echoes through thin walls.

Great for

College Students

Grad Students

Academics

Young Renters

Remote Workers

Neighborhood vibe

Mixed-Use

Peaceful

Mixed-Use & Commercial

La Jolla

What it’s like to live in La Jolla

Beyond the picture-perfect postcards, La Jolla's rental market offers surprising diversity from vintage cottages to luxury high-rises. The Village provides European-style walkability rare in Southern California, where errands become pleasant strolls rather than traffic-clogged drives. Many apartments include outdoor space with ocean views or glimpses between buildings, while sea breezes create natural air conditioning during warmer months. The microclimate stays noticeably cooler than inland neighborhoods, though early summer "May Gray" and "June Gloom" marine layers sometimes persist all day. Parking challenges increase dramatically during summer tourism season, making rentals with dedicated spots worth the premium. When seeking outdoor recreation, the protected cove offers swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling literally steps from many residential buildings.

Great for

Families

Retirees

Professionals

Young Renters

Commuters

Neighborhood vibe

Mixed-Use

Peaceful

Mixed-Use & Commercial

Mid-city

What it’s like to live in Mid-city

Authentic diversity thrives in Mid-City San Diego, where global communities have created one of the city's most vibrant culinary scenes along El Cajon Boulevard. The neighborhood offers significantly better rental value than coastal or downtown options while maintaining straightforward access to both through excellent public transportation. As San Diego's original streetcar suburb, Mid-City features distinctive architecture spanning multiple eras, creating character increasingly rare across the city's newer developments dominated by contemporary styling with limited architectural diversity.

Great for

Families

Retirees

Professionals

Young Renters

Commuters

Neighborhood vibe

Mixed-Use

Peaceful

Mixed-Use & Commercial

Neighborhoods

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

Price

Amenities

Property Type

San Diego Short-term Apartments (59)

Explore Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Whether you’re looking for your first place near the local University of California campus or diving into the bustle of La Jolla, there are plenty of apartments for rent in San Diego, CA.

With Apartment List, you’ll find an AI-curated catalog of affordable San Diego rentals based on your preferences. When personalizing options, the algorithm considers factors like proximity to your work or whether the apartment has pool or gym access. Enjoy a range of choices that match your dream home’s requirements — or come close enough to warrant a tour.

Rest assured, you’ll find a new home that ticks all your boxes in less time than it takes to finish the Seven Bridge Walk.

Take the Renter Quiz, review the list of apartments in San Diego for rent, and enjoy the warmth of the Pacific Beach sunshine in no time.

Can You Live Cheaply in San Diego?

Even though the apartment rental market in San Diego is competitive, the city has pockets of affordable apartments. Areas like Hillcrest and Fox Canyon are budget-friendly, offering access to popular San Diego attractions like parks, museums, and restaurants. These features rival the more expensive suburbs like Little Italy and Scripps Ranch.

Across the city, the median rental rate for a San Diego, California apartment is:

- 1BR: $1,975/month - 2BR: 2,475/month

Remember, no matter where you choose to rent an apartment in San Diego, you can rely on affordable, accessible public transport. This makes the entire city — from the San Diego Zoo to Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá — your playground.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Everyone from a first-time renter to a 10-time A-Lister needs to know how to determine rental affordability. With this understanding, you’ll avoid stretching the budget and increase the likelihood of approval.

Property managers in San Diego recommend that rent not exceed 40% of the household income. So, landlords renting a 2BR/1BA apartment in Casa de Oro for $2,995 would expect tenants to earn upwards of $7,487.50/month.

San Diego rental costs are down 3.1% year-over-year. Still, outside factors such as job growth, low housing inventory, and the city’s desirability indicate the trend is unlikely to continue.

There are two reasons for higher rents in San Diego. First, a limited supply of deed-restricted affordable rental units forces tenants to pay market rates for housing. Second, many San Diego suburbs like La Jolla and Mission Bar are within walking distance of the beach. This proximity makes them highly desirable areas, increasing the competition.

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Vera Cortez Hill

Cielo

The Hub

iL Palazzo

Bradbury at The Society

The Seaton

Valentina by Alta

The Presidio Apartments

K1

Purl

Gramercy

Jefferson at Carmel Mountain

Circa 37

West Park Apartments

The Reserve At 4s Ranch

Cityview SD

Average rent in San Diego, California

Top neighborhoods in San Diego

More Rental Options

Explore Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Can You Live Cheaply in San Diego?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much rent should I pay in San Diego?

Are rent prices dropping in San Diego?

Why is it so expensive to rent in San Diego?