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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.

1,235 rentals available

Casa Del Mar
$3,600
5060 La Jolla Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 544-0024
7 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Walk in closets + more
Ocean Retreat
Steps from stunning Tourmaline Beach's ocean views.
Experience coastal living at Casas By The Sea, where Tourmaline Beach is your backyard. Relish in breathtaking ocean views and a vibrant local scene with world-class dining and shopping nearby. Enjoy spacious apartments adorned with quality appliances, perfectly complemented by luxurious amenities like swimming pools and a hydro-jet spa.
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The Fort
$2,495
1011 Fort Stockton Drive, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 486-5418
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
Pet friendly, Smoke-free community, Smoke-free units, and Accessible
Architectural Charm
Stunning architecture and views in Mission Hills.
Experience modern living at The Fort, where floor-to-ceiling windows and open designs flood each apartment with natural light. Nestled in the charming Mission Hills neighborhood, enjoy walking to popular restaurants and scenic parks. This pet-friendly community with both dogs and cats allowed ensures a welcoming environment for all.
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The Park
$3,795
4075 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 649-9640
6 units available
2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Smoke-free community, Smoke-free units, Yoga, Fire pit, Bbq/grill + more
Rooftop Retreat
Elegant living in a vibrant San Diego neighborhood.
The Park offers modern living in San Diego's University Heights, complete with stunning rooftop views. Residents enjoy well-maintained facilities and a strong community vibe. With easy access to local attractions like restaurants and parks, it's the perfect spot for an inspired lifestyle.
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Mission Arbor
$2,599
4555 Vandever Avenue, San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 759-6883
Rent Savings
4 units available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Stainless steel, Pool + more
Spacious Serenity
Spacious apartments in a charming and welcoming community.
Mission Arbor offers spacious and clean apartments that residents love for their upgraded features. The charming common area and friendly neighbors create a welcoming environment. With prompt maintenance service, it ensures a comfortable living experience.
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Ancora
110 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 486-5796
$2,500+ moTotal price12-mo lease
50 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Pet friendly, Parking, Walk in closets, Gym + more
Prime Location
Luxury living in Little Italy's vibrant heart
Experience the vibrant life of San Diego's Little Italy at Ancora. Featuring smart home technology, personal balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows, these luxurious accommodations redefine urban living. Enjoy extraordinary community amenities like a resort-inspired pool and sky lounge, plus a convenient rooftop dog run.
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525 Olive Balboa Park
525 Olive Street, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 762-1651
$3,113+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
9 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking + more
Stunning Views
Luxury living steps from Balboa Park.
525 Olive offers breathtaking views and luxury living above Balboa Park. Residents enjoy direct access to vibrant parks, dining, and entertainment options. With both cats and dogs welcome, it caters to a pet-loving community seeking top-notch amenities and high-end finishes.
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Mode
635 Robinson Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 330-8276
$2,635+ moTotal price12-mo lease
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Pet Paradise
Luxurious Living in Vibrant Hillcrest
Mode is perfectly situated in the vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood, offering luxurious living with top-notch amenities. Residents love the rooftop deck with an infinity spa and the professional management team. Pet owners appreciate the pet-friendly environment and Perks offered.
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The Townsend
$2,665
5075 Camino de la Siesta, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 330-3137
Rent Savings
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Luxury Amenities
Experience the charm of Mission Valley luxury living.
The Townsend offers an all-inclusive lifestyle with exceptional amenities. Residents can enjoy modern comforts like in-unit laundry, a state-of-the-art gym, and an inviting pool. Situated in Mission Valley, it's a walk away from restaurants and parks, perfect for dining and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Elán The Park
$2,495
4929 Del Monte Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 598-1244
Rent Savings
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking + more
Beach Living
Enjoy tranquil living near San Diego's sandy shores.
Elán The Park provides a peaceful beachside retreat in Ocean Beach, San Diego. Residents appreciate the spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and private patios or balconies. The community's pet-friendly policy warmly welcomes both cats and dogs, enhancing its inviting atmosphere for pet owners.
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Elan Coco Palms
$1,995
4975 Del Monte Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(440) 858-4014
Rent Savings
2 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Parking, Gym, Pool + more
Beach Bliss
Coastal living with calming charm and great value.
Elan Coco Palms offers coastal living at its finest. Residents enjoy spacious studios filled with natural light, only a block from the serene oceanfront. Abundant amenities like a sparkling pool, gym, and bike storage enhance the lifestyle, all within a vibrant yet peaceful community.
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4.5
LUX by Garden
$4,310
4200 Brook Court, San Diego, CA 95356
(603) 932-6465
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“to which specific ratings are you referring too, this is a very bad question”
26 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxurious Amenities
Prime location with resort-style rooftop views and features.
LUX by Garden is a gem in San Diego, offering residents an exceptional blend of luxury and convenience. The property's prime location provides easy access to a plethora of shopping, dining, and beach experiences. With stunning floor-to-ceiling windows that bring in natural light and breathtaking views, this is a haven for relaxation and enjoyment.
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Tastefully upgraded Clairemont Mesa 4-Bedroom in popular Balboa Ridge!
$3,595
5402 Balboa Arms Drive, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 422-3843
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Gym + more
Serene Retreat
Stunning condo near San Diego's vibrant hotspots.
This meticulously maintained 2B/2BA condo in Northern San Diego offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With stainless steel appliances, in-unit laundry, and a spacious private patio, it promises an inviting living experience. Residents enjoy a resort-like lifestyle with access to three swimming pools, a spa, and a clubhouse, all set in a community praised for its cleanliness and safety.
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AV8
2155 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 281-4680
$2,690+ moTotal price15-mo lease
Rent Savings
15 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Central Oasis
Prime location near San Diego's top amenities.
AV8 offers luxurious living in the heart of San Diego. Nestled in the vibrant Harborview neighborhood, you'll enjoy seamless access to top-tier dining, entertainment, and cultural hotspots. With beautiful waterfront views and a wide array of modern amenities including a pet-friendly environment, AV8 is a true urban retreat.
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Jackson Pointe 111
2758 Lake Pointe Drive, San Diego, CA 91977
(928) 938-8778
$4,002 moTotal price12-mo lease
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Scenic Oasis
Panoramic views in a serene, gated community.
Nestled on a mountaintop plateau, Jackson Pointe offers breathtaking views of Mt. Miguel, Sweetwater Lake, and the Pacific Ocean. Located in the popular Spring Valley neighborhood, it combines natural beauty with urban conveniences. Residents rave about the secure gated community and responsive management, ensuring peace of mind and a welcoming environment for pets with both cats and dogs allowed.
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Avino
5040 Camino San Fermin, San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 212-0108
$3,446+ moTotal price12-mo lease
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Wine room, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher + more
Luxury Retreat
Luxury living with modern conveniences and vibrant community.
Avino offers luxury apartment homes with top-notch amenities in North City, San Diego. The vibrant location provides access to parks, restaurants, schools, and entertainment within a short distance, creating a dynamic lifestyle for residents. Reviews highlight the excellent management and well-maintained common areas, making it a desirable choice for those seeking quality living. Cats and dogs are welcome, enhancing the community's pet-friendly atmosphere.
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Sola at Pacific Highlands Ranch
13385 Highlands Place, San Diego, CA 92130
(218) 292-9744
$3,008+ moTotal price12-mo lease
14 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher + more
Luxurious Living
Modern elegance in scenic Carmel Valley setting
Embrace luxurious living at Sola at Pacific Highlands Ranch in Carmel Valley, where spacious open-concept apartments are complemented by stylish design. Residents appreciate the top-notch amenities, including a state-of-the-art gym, sparkling pool, and tranquil hot tub. Pet owners love the dedicated dog spa and park, while proximity to shopping, dining, and excellent schools makes for easy living.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,114+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,886+. Rent rates updated 5 days ago

Studio: $2,623+Trending down
1 Bed: $3,114+Trending down
2 Beds: $3,886+Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,861+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

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

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

Neighborhoods

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

Price

Amenities

Property Type

San Diego Short-term Apartments (49)

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

Casa Del Mar

The Fort

The Park

Mission Arbor

Ancora

525 Olive Balboa Park

Mode

The Townsend

Elán The Park

Elan Coco Palms

LUX by Garden

Tastefully upgraded Clairemont Mesa 4-Bedroom in popular Balboa Ridge!

AV8

Jackson Pointe 111

Avino

Sola at Pacific Highlands Ranch

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?