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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.

1,321 rentals available

Citrino
$2,050
6916 Fulton Street, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 879-1893
Rent Savings
5 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Sustainable Luxury
Eco-friendly elegance in vibrant San Diego.
Citrino offers an exquisite living experience in Western San Diego, showcasing sustainability and modern design. This all-solar community provides eco-friendly features, such as EV charging, and welcomes both cats and dogs. Residents appreciate the stylish, well-maintained apartments and the surrounding conveniences including shopping and dining options.
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Dezi
$2,643
2696 Mission Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 613-2217
Rent Savings
19 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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Elan Pacific Lofts
$2,895
4467 Dawes Street, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 365-9486
Rent Savings
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Coastal Serenity
Beachside living with top-notch amenities.
Elan Pacific Lofts offers a serene beachside lifestyle in Pacific Beach, San Diego. This vibrant community welcomes both cats and dogs and features beautifully designed apartments. Residents enjoy prime access to local dining and entertainment venues, enhancing the coastal living experience.
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Elán Baylofts
$3,095
1450 Pacific Beach Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 808-2328
Rent Savings
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Coastal Charm
Perfect Location Near Beaches and Amenities
Elán Baylofts offers a serene beachside lifestyle in Pacific Beach, San Diego. Residents love the prime location, just a stroll away from the beach and bay. Complete with modern amenities and pet-friendly policies, both cats and dogs are welcome. The spectacular pool and attentive staff enhance the vibrant community experience.
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Elan Luxo II
$2,630
1907 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 901-1993
Rent Savings
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Little Italy
Charming community in vibrant Little Italy.
Elan Luxo II offers a prime location in the vibrant Little Italy neighborhood, known for its authentic Italian cuisine and lively atmosphere. Enjoy modern amenities like stainless steel appliances and granite countertops in welcoming apartments. The community is perfect for pet owners, allowing cats and dogs to reside. Dive into a dynamic living experience with easy access to nearby attractions, parks, and entertainment.
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The Parker Residences
$3,595
5295 Kona Springs Lane, San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 304-9452
Rent Savings
8 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Luxury Comfort
Refined living with upscale amenities near Mission Valley.
The Parker Residences offers luxurious townhome living with exceptional amenities a stone's throw from Mission Valley. Enjoy spacious, pet-friendly homes with gourmet kitchens and private balconies. Delight in the resort-style pool and fitness center, and benefit from convenient access to nearby highways for easy commuting.
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5.0
Diega
$2,439
702 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
(216) 677-6883
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
59 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Sophisticated Living
Sophisticated high-rise living in downtown San Diego
Diega offers a truly sophisticated living experience in San Diego's downtown core. This high-rise provides residents with curated interiors and rooftop retreats. With stunning city views, unrivaled amenities, and easy access to restaurants and entertainment, it's an exceptional choice.
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Ascent at Campus of Life
$3,232
9890 Graduate Driveway, San Diego, CA 92131
(858) 567-0039
Rent Savings
6 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction + more
Community Escape
Vibrant living surrounded by parks and amenities.
Ascent at Campus of Life in San Diego offers a vibrant living experience with easy access to nearby parks, schools, and grocery stores. Residents adore the spacious apartments, highlighted by high ceilings and abundant natural lighting. Enjoy the refreshing pool, 24-hour gym, and peaceful community garden, making it a perfect escape in the heart of Northeastern San Diego.
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Silo at Epoca
$2,334
7231 Colchester Court, San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 457-4532
Rent Savings
20 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Stylish Comfort
Modern living close to downtown San Diego.
Silo at Epoca offers modern and spacious apartments in a peaceful and friendly environment. Residents love the smart home technology and ample natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Pet owners will appreciate the dog-friendly amenities, including an off-leash dog park. Conveniently located, it's just 20 minutes from downtown San Diego with seamless freeway access.
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Signature Point
$3,760
13006 Signature Point, San Diego, CA 92130
(619) 202-8176
16 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxury Amenities
Upscale living in vibrant San Diego neighborhood
Signature Point offers an upscale living experience with luxurious amenities like a resort-style pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, all in a well-maintained setting. Residents enjoy tranquility and convenience, with easy access to San Diego's fine dining and entertainment options just steps away. The management's commitment to excellent service ensures a pleasant living experience for all.
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5.0
K1
$2,367
330 13th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 597-1598
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Amazing apartment with amazing staff”
16 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.
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5.0
Dylan Point Loma
$3,222
2930 Barnard Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 361-8107
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“We love living here, we love the space. Not crazy about the overall location and wish it wasn't so dense in the neighborhood in general but we love management our apartment and amenities and the maitenence crew is awesome! The rental rates in San Diego are a bit out of control and we do wish it was a bit less expensive but it is worth it for the pool and other amenities etc”
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Resort Lifestyle
Resort-inspired amenities and prime coastal location.
Dylan Point Loma offers a stunning blend of resort-inspired amenities and a prime coastal location in San Diego. Residents love the convenience of nearby ocean access and major freeways, alongside excellent community features like the pool and dog park. The property boasts a friendly management team and is a short distance from top schools, parks, and a myriad of dining options.
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The Village at Del Mar Heights
$3,314
13138 Kellam Court, San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 519-5536
Rent Savings
5 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Prime Location
Beachside Bliss in San Diego
Nestled in Northern San Diego, The Village at Del Mar Heights offers ideal beachside living just moments from pristine shorelines and a unique dog beach. With pet-friendly accommodations, nearby dining, and lushly landscaped grounds, this community provides residents with the perfect combination of convenience and coastal charm.
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Concert Towers
$1,578
955 Eleventh Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(256) 293-5780
Rent Savings
253 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, New construction, Stainless steel + more
Spectacular Views
Luxury Living in Vibrant Downtown
Concert Towers provides luxurious living in the heart of downtown San Diego. Enjoy breathtaking city and Marina views from the newly constructed residences. Engage with premier amenities like a rooftop lounge, infinity pool, and expansive gym. The location offers unparalleled access to downtown attractions including the Historic Gaslamp District and PETCO Park.
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Pinnacle on the Park
$2,240
424 15th St Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 773-0760
Rent Savings
109 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Vibrant Location
Thriving East Village lifestyle with top amenities.
Situated in San Diego's dynamic East Village, Pinnacle on the Park offers a prime location with easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Residents love the breathtaking city and bay views, with outstanding amenities such as a pool, gym, and pet-friendly features. The location is ideal for experiencing the vibrant lifestyle of Downtown San Diego.
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Entrada Apartments
$1,860
453 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101
(928) 235-9340
Rent Savings
6 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Prime Location
Convenient downtown San Diego living with abundant amenities.
Entrada Apartments offers ideal city living with its prime location in East Village, San Diego. Residents rave about the easy walkability to grocery stores, coffee shops, and Petco Park. The apartments are especially welcoming to pets, offering a dog-friendly environment with nearby parks. The professional and friendly management team ensures a pleasant and hassle-free living experience.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,142, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,918. Rent rates updated 6 days ago

Studio: $2,608Trending up
1 Bed: $3,142Trending up
2 Beds: $3,918Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,806Trending up

* Averages are based on the rental prices of properties listed on Apartment List

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

Little Italy

What it’s like to live in Little Italy

Little Italy combines urban energy with Italian heritage in this walkable downtown adjacent district. Rental options include converted historic buildings and luxury high-rises with harbor views from many units. While the popularity means premium rental rates and weekend crowds can create noise and parking challenges, residents enjoy exceptional walkability to both waterfront recreation and the area's famous restaurant scene with better climate than almost anywhere else in the country thanks to San Diego's perfect year-round weather.

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 (60)

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

Citrino

Dezi

Elan Pacific Lofts

Elán Baylofts

Elan Luxo II

The Parker Residences

Diega

Ascent at Campus of Life

Silo at Epoca

Signature Point

K1

Dylan Point Loma

The Village at Del Mar Heights

Concert Towers

Pinnacle on the Park

Entrada Apartments

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?