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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.

1,182 rentals available

Canyon Ridge
$2,358
3187 Cowley Way, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 263-1986
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport + more
Nature Proximity
Tranquil living near Tecolote Canyon Preserve
Canyon Ridge offers residents a serene escape next to the beautiful Tecolote Canyon Nature Preserve. With convenient access to downtown, Fashion Valley, and University Towne Center, enjoy nearby shopping and dining. You'll also appreciate this community's well-maintained and quiet environment, praised by residents for the reliable management and maintenance team.
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Park Diplomat
$2,495
1707 Essex Street, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 494-3150
Rent Savings
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
North Park
Prime urban living in Hillcrest, San Diego
Located in the heart of North Park, this community offers vibrant urban living with eclectic boutiques, diverse dining, and cultural events right at your doorstep. The thoughtfully designed apartments feature charming amenities like cozy fireplaces and built-in bookshelves. Residents love having a relaxing pool and spa, and the assurance of assigned parking and controlled access.
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Dezi
$2,718
2696 Mission Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 613-2217
Rent Savings
13 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel, Air conditioning + more
Convenient Living
Modern design near Snapdragon Stadium and Convoy District.
DEZI offers brand-new apartments with striking modern designs. Residents enjoy top-notch finishes such as quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. Located in Eastern San Diego, it provides easy access to Snapdragon Stadium and Convoy District, making it a prime choice for those who love vibrant urban living.
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Mira Bella Apartments San Diego
$2,731
3455 Kearny Villa Road, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 356-2492
Rent Savings
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Convenient Oasis
Luxury apartments in vibrant Kearny Mesa, San Diego.
Mira Bella Apartments offer a prime location in San Diego's Kearny Mesa neighborhood. Promising comfort with stunning views, the community is adjacent to parks and top-rated schools. Cats and dogs are warmly welcomed, and residents praise the amenities like the saltwater pool and resident lounge for enhancing their living experience.
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The Hub
$2,864
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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Gramercy
$2,209
9072 Gramercy Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
(330) 615-6842
12 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.
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Parkview Terrace
$1,999
4103 54th Place, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 759-7357
Rent Savings
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport, Recently renovated + more
Community Spirit
Peaceful, friendly vibe enhances living experience.
Parkview Terrace stands out for its peaceful community, where friendly and respectful neighbors create an inviting atmosphere. Residents particularly value the attentive management and maintenance teams who ensure living needs are met promptly. Situated conveniently for San Diego State University students, its location offers easy access to shopping, dining, parks, and the Colina Park golf course.
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5.0
Torrey Gardens
$2,895
10615 Calle Mar De Mariposa, San Diego, CA 92130
(619) 536-0848
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Amazing experience and would like to extend the contract. The staff are nice and very helpful.”
11 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Coastal Convenience
Prime location with top schools and beach access.
Torrey Gardens offers an unbeatable location near San Diego's beautiful beaches, renowned shopping centers, and excellent schools. The property boasts comprehensive amenities like a resort-style pool and fully equipped fitness center. Residents enjoy modern living spaces with features like in-unit laundry and stainless steel appliances.
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Mesa Village
$2,455
11355 Zapata Avenue, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 239-0138
Rent Savings
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Urban Oasis
Luxury living in quiet Mira Mesa neighborhood.
Mesa Village offers a blend of urban living and luxury in Northeastern San Diego. Residents can enjoy the comfort of spacious floor plans with updated kitchens and bathrooms, creating an inviting home environment. Reviews praise the peaceful setting and the excellent service provided by professional staff, enhancing the living experience.
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4.0
La Jolla Crossroads
$2,625
9085 University City, San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 683-6692
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“I love the location but it is noisy place. I have several complaint about my upstair neighbor’s noise. I couldn’t get a result about it. Heavy footsteps, constantly through heavy stuff on their floor which is my roof. Apart from that, smoke odor is normal everyday. It means some people smoke without care. Those are the main problems I have in my side. Talking about the rent amount, it looks like a little excessive if I take into account the poor maintenance of the washer, dryer, stove, microwave and so on. Apart from that, I don’t have any complaint to add.”
36 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Amenity Haven
Vibrant living with exceptional amenities in San Diego.
La Jolla Crossroads is your gateway to vibrant living in San Diego's University City. Just a free shuttle ride from the bustling Westfield UTC Mall, this community offers outstanding convenience and access to entertainment. Residents rave about the peaceful atmosphere, with on-site playgrounds and a wealth of amenities, including multiple pools, making life enjoyable and enriched.
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Pacific Sands
$2,865
5550 Balboa Arms Drive, San Diego, CA 92117
(831) 653-5869
Rent Savings
8 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking + more
Serene Retreat
Peaceful living in San Diego's Clairemont Mesa East
Pacific Sands offers a serene retreat in the heart of Clairemont Mesa East, San Diego. Residents love the peaceful and friendly atmosphere, modern amenities, and excellent management. With dog lovers and cat owners welcome, this community is an ideal home near abundant local eateries and essential services.
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The Promenade Rio Vista
$2,642
2185 Station Village Way, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 361-8157
Rent Savings
21 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Metro Convenience
Prime location near trolley and Mission Valley attractions.
The Promenade Rio Vista stands out with its prime Mission Valley location, offering direct access to the Rio Vista Trolley Station for seamless commuting across San Diego. Residents relish the wide range of engaging community events, such as yoga classes and movie nights, that enrich the living experience. With pet-friendly amenities including a dedicated dog wash area, it’s a welcoming environment for furry companions.
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eaves Rancho Penasquitos
$2,405
10024 Paseo Montril, San Diego, CA 92129
(818) 875-9292
Rent Savings
15 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Community Amenities
Comfortable living with top-notch amenities in San Diego.
eaves Rancho Penasquitos offers a blend of modern living and convenience. Located in San Diego's Northeastern suburb, residents enjoy access to superb community amenities including a sparkling pool, gym, and clubhouse. This property offers a great value being priced below the metro average.
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AMLI Aero
$2,915
3585 Aero Court, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 848-0357
Rent Savings
198 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Putting green, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Luxury Living
Rooftop pool and fitness-enhanced lifestyle.
AMLI Aero invites you to experience unparalleled luxury with its impressive rooftop pool, chic sunset terrace, and advanced fitness facilities. Residents embrace a vibrant community lifestyle enhanced by state-of-the-art amenities and stylish interiors. Convenient freeway access connects you swiftly to San Diego's attractions and business hubs.
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5.0
eaves Mission Ridge
$2,185
2745 Meadow Lark Drive, San Diego, CA 92123
(929) 368-4006
Top rated for Location
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Family-Friendly Haven
Spacious apartments with great amenities in popular area.
eaves Mission Ridge is nestled in the popular Eastern San Diego neighborhood, offering spacious apartments perfect for families and those seeking a comfortable lifestyle. The property features amenities like a pool, gym, and extensive in-unit and community extras such as fireplaces and sundecks. Convenient access to multiple freeways, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities enhances the appeal of this inviting and tranquil community.
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Gravity
4560 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 737-1754
$2,100+ moTotal price14-mo lease
Rent Savings
19 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Putting green, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Central Convenience
Stylish apartments in San Diego’s vibrant Grantville area.
Gravity Apartments offers a prime location in San Diego's Grantville area, providing unparalleled access to major highways and local attractions. Residents appreciate the modern design and high-end appliances, along with luxurious community amenities like a resort-style pool and rooftop deck. The pet-friendly atmosphere ensures both cats and dogs are welcome, enhancing the living space for pet owners.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,085+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,854+. Rent rates updated 2 days ago

Studio: $2,617+Trending down
1 Bed: $3,085+Trending down
2 Beds: $3,854+Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,874+Trending down

* 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

Beach Barber Tract

What it’s like to live in Beach Barber Tract

Retro surf shacks sit 0.3 miles from Ocean Beach Pier's sunset swells. Shared alley parking fills by 5PM daily, and mandatory flood insurance offsets tsunami zone discounts. Perfect for board-hoarding minimalists.

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

Canyon Ridge

Park Diplomat

Dezi

Mira Bella Apartments San Diego

The Hub

Gramercy

Parkview Terrace

Torrey Gardens

Mesa Village

La Jolla Crossroads

Pacific Sands

The Promenade Rio Vista

eaves Rancho Penasquitos

AMLI Aero

eaves Mission Ridge

Gravity

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?