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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.

1,274 rentals available

Ridgewood Village
$2,386
12435 Heatherton Court, San Diego, CA 92128
(858) 762-9777
21 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport + more
Nature Retreat
Serene living within preserved nature and top schools
Ridgewood Village offers a peaceful community surrounded by over 800 acres of preserved nature trails and parks. The location provides easy access to top-rated schools in the Poway Unified School District, making it a delightful environment for educational growth. Amenities such as sparkling pools, a fitness center, and pet-friendly policies—welcoming both cats and dogs—add to its charm.
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Carmel Terrace
$2,417
11540 Windcrest Lane, San Diego, CA 92128
(858) 375-5697
Rent Savings
18 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Convenient Location
Conveniently located in vibrant Carmel Mountain neighborhood.
Carmel Terrace offers a fantastic living experience with newly renovated homes situated in the vibrant Carmel Mountain neighborhood of San Diego. Located next to Carmel Mountain Ranch Town Center and moments from major highways, you'll experience the ease of accessing nearby stores, restaurants, and transit options. The property is both dog and cat-friendly, featuring top-tier amenities like multiple pools, a fitness center, and well-maintained green areas.
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Towers at Costa Verde
$2,950
8775 Costa Verde Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92192
(325) 255-0677
Rent Savings
22 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Putting green, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Garage + more
Prime Location
Luxury living near everything you need in San Diego.
Towers at Costa Verde offers a luxurious lifestyle in Northern San Diego. With easy access to top-rated schools, vibrant shopping districts, and beautiful beaches, it provides an ideal environment for enjoying all the city has to offer. Amenities include resort-style pools, tennis courts, and a state-of-the-art fitness center, ensuring residents lack for nothing in terms of recreation and relaxation.
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Alexan Camellia
$2,870
4888 Convoy St., San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 810-6360
Rent Savings
494 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Modern Luxury
Elegant Living with Modern Amenities in San Diego
Experience the elegance of Alexan Camellia, where residents are delighted by spacious apartments featuring high ceilings and modern finishes. The community is complemented by a highly-praised fitness center and pool, establishing it as a sought-after choice for luxury living. Location perks include convenient access to San Diego's local shopping and dining options, adding further appeal.
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Folia
$3,122
12520 Camino Del Sur, San Diego, CA 92129
(619) 649-6366
Rent Savings
201 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly
Natural Serenity
Embrace tranquility and convenience at Folia San Diego.
Folia offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, nestled in a serene area surrounded by hills, canyons, and tall trees. Residents love the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to local markets, restaurants, and major stores. Enjoy easy access to major highways such as the 15 and 56, providing a seamless commute.
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Garden at 3Roots
$3,175
7918 Collective Way, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 434-5788
Rent Savings
87 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Golf room, Pet friendly, New construction, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Wellness Living
Harmony in nature, wellness, and urban living.
Garden at 3Roots promises a lifestyle blending innovation with nature. Nestled in Sorrento Mesa, this community delivers modern apartment living focused on holistic well-being and sustainable design. Seamlessly integrating with the beautiful surroundings, residents enjoy walking trails, parks, and open spaces, all within a vibrant, tech-centric hub.
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Monroe
$2,410
3090 Polk Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104
(805) 410-9310
Rent Savings
114 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Modern Luxury
Luxury living in vibrant North Park, San Diego.
Monroe Apartments in North Park San Diego offer a premium lifestyle combining luxury and convenience. Residents adore vibrant surroundings with a wide variety of dining and shopping just steps away. The property is pet friendly and offers a wide array of amenities like a rooftop clubroom with stunning views.
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La Jolla Canyon
$2,365
9515 Genesee Avenue, San Diego, CA 92121
(507) 578-8518
Rent Savings
7 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Nature Escape
Peaceful retreat with lush nature and top amenities.
Discover a peaceful retreat at La Jolla Canyon, where nature and convenience meet. Residents love the serene atmosphere enhanced by lush landscaping and a scenic nature trail. It offers a great value, being priced below the metro average, and provides easy access to UCSD and La Jolla's beaches. Experience a comfortable lifestyle with features like a 24-hour fitness center, inviting pool, and spa area.
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La Regencia
$2,675
7681 Palmilla Drive, San Diego, CA 92122
(571) 322-8811
Rent Savings
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking + more
Convenient Location
Prime spot near amenities and transit.
La Regencia offers a prime location in Northern San Diego, complemented by a wide array of amenities. Residents love the spacious apartments, and the convenience of having grocery stores, restaurants, and public transit within easy walking distance. With cats and dogs allowed, this pet-friendly community is ideal for animal lovers.
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Simone
$3,290
1401 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 391-4230
Rent Savings
40 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Parking, and Bike storage
Scenic Retreat
Luxurious living with breathtaking views.
Situated in vibrant Little Italy, Simone offers a luxurious living experience with breathtaking views from its rooftop pool and spa. The modern indoor/outdoor fitness studio is perfect for fitness enthusiasts, while pet owners enjoy the welcoming open-air dog park. With its central location, residents have easy access to numerous schools, parks, entertainment venues, and dining establishments within a walkable distance.
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The Merian
$2,302
601 11th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(313) 513-2049
Rent Savings
32 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, New construction, Stainless steel + more
Prime Location
Experience Vibrant Living in East Village San Diego
The Merian in San Diego's East Village offers a prime location with easy access to downtown attractions and public transportation. Its modern amenities include a top-notch fitness center and a rooftop lounge, appreciated by residents for their quality. Cats and dogs are welcome, enhancing the property’s comfortable living experience.
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Bowen Apartments
$2,364
3280 Barnett Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 330-0974
Rent Savings
18 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Gym + more
Luxurious Living
Effortless Living Near Liberty Station.
Bowen Apartments offer luxurious living with high-end finishes, abundant natural light, and a superb location across from Liberty Station. Experience excellent amenities like a resort-style pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, perfect for elevating your lifestyle. Enjoy easy access to dining, shopping, and recreation activities right outside your doorstep.
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ALX Apartments
$2,268
300 14th St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 901-2326
Rent Savings
28 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Gym, Pool + more
Rooftop Luxury
Stunning rooftop pool with breathtaking views.
ALX Apartments in East Village offers a vibrant lifestyle with luxurious amenities. Residents love the rooftop saltwater pool and spa, showcasing panoramic views of the bay and cityscape. Pet owners appreciate the dedicated dog park and pet spa, making it an ideal home for furry friends.
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Radian
$2,900
675 Ninth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 239-0641
Rent Savings
34 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Luxury Living
Exceptional Downtown Apartment with Stunning Views
Experience luxury downtown living at Radian with its rooftop pool and spa deck, providing breathtaking views of Petco Park, the Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. This LEED Gold property has fantastic amenities including a clubhouse, indoor/outdoor fitness center, and convenient access to a Target store. It's perfect for pet owners too, with a rooftop dog run and dog spa.
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Current
$2,599
1551 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 332-5105
Rent Savings
14 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Google fiber, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors + more
Prime Locale
Iconic heart of Little Italy with luxury features.
Current offers a luxurious living experience in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy neighborhood. With abundant restaurants, parks, and transportation options within walking distance, it's an ideal location for urban dwellers. Residents praise the clean, well-maintained facilities and the friendly, helpful staff, enhancing the sense of community and comfort.
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2911 Adams Ave
$2,050
2911 Adams Avenue, San Diego, CA 92116
(262) 800-5867
Rent Savings
21 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Walk in closets + more
Great Value
Chic living with cost-effective perks in San Diego.
2911 Adams Ave offers a modern lifestyle with chic living spaces enhanced by sleek finishes. Enjoy the advantage of cost-effective living without compromising on quality. Cats and dogs are welcome, and the vibrant neighborhood boasts diverse dining and shopping, enhancing daily convenience.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,126, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,903. Rent rates updated 5 days ago

Studio: $2,594Trending up
1 Bed: $3,126Trending up
2 Beds: $3,903Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,819Trending 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

Western San Diego

What it’s like to live in Western San Diego

Beach proximity without premium pricing makes Western San Diego appealing for coastal enthusiasts on a budget. Neighborhoods like Ocean Beach and Point Loma offer more affordable alternatives to La Jolla while maintaining similar beach access. Many apartments feature ocean breezes reducing air conditioning needs during warm months, while the neighborhood's proximity to both beaches and downtown creates ideal positioning for enjoying all San Diego offers.

Great for

Families

Retirees

Professionals

Young Renters

Commuters

Neighborhood vibe

Mixed-Use

Peaceful

Mixed-Use & Commercial

Northeastern San Diego

What it’s like to live in Northeastern San Diego

Tech employees gravitate to Northeastern San Diego for its perfect positioning between multiple corporate campuses and outdoor recreation in Mission Trails Regional Park. Newer apartment communities typically include business centers, high-speed internet, and flexible spaces supporting remote work. The area's diverse dining reflects San Diego's international population, with authentic options beyond tourist-oriented fare. Though lacking the nightlife of downtown districts, many residents appreciate the quieter evenings after intense workdays.

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 (61)

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

Ridgewood Village

Carmel Terrace

Towers at Costa Verde

Alexan Camellia

Folia

Garden at 3Roots

Monroe

La Jolla Canyon

La Regencia

Simone

The Merian

Bowen Apartments

ALX Apartments

Radian

Current

2911 Adams Ave

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?