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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.

1,188 rentals available

Mission Arbor
$2,599
4555 Vandever Avenue, San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 759-6883
Rent Savings
5 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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Parkview Terrace
$1,999
4103 54th Place, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 759-7357
Rent Savings
10 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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Casa Del Mar
$3,600
5060 La Jolla Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 544-0024
Rent Savings
7 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated + 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 Park
$3,845
4075 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 649-9640
Rent Savings
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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The Fort
$2,495
1011 Fort Stockton Drive, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 486-5418
Rent Savings
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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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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Village Apartments
$2,395
7015 Eastman Street, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 771-2749
6 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Smoke-free community, E-payments, Courtyard, Online portal + more
Prime Location
Ideal San Diego Living with Top Amenities
Discover the allure of Village Apartments, ideally located in the heart of San Diego. Residents appreciate the convenience of in-home laundry and spacious walk-in closets. With easy access to Fashion Valley Mall, shopping and commuting are seamless experiences.
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Ancora
$2,500
110 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 486-5796
Rent Savings
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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Mode
$3,523
635 Robinson Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 330-8276
9 units available
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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525 Olive Balboa Park
$3,256
525 Olive Street, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 762-1651
Rent Savings
14 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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The Townsend
$2,665
5075 Camino de la Siesta, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 330-3137
Rent Savings
12 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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City Villas
$1,959
841 16th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 257-6258
Rent Savings
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Dog park + more
Prime Location
Downtown Living with Perks Galore
City Villas offers a prized location right in the heart of Downtown San Diego, with easy walkability to vibrant dining and entertainment. Residents love the rooftop patio, perfect for gatherings and unwinding. The community is both dog and cat-friendly, embracing furry companions with open arms and no additional pet rent.
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Elan Pacific Palms
$2,495
4827 Niagara Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(385) 222-3546
Rent Savings
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Parking, Gym, Ceiling fan + more
Beachside Comfort
Enjoy the vibrant Point Loma lifestyle.
Elan Pacific Palms offers beachside living with an array of local attractions at your fingertips. Located in the relaxing Point Loma Peninsula neighborhood, this community provides convenient access to the sandy shores and exciting Newport Avenue. Residents love the spacious layouts, lush landscaping, and amenities like on-site laundry and secure bike storage. Plus, both cats and dogs are warmly welcomed.
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Elan Loma Highlands
$1,845
2185 Chatsworth Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 724-4386
Rent Savings
3 units available
Studio
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Cats allowed, Parking, Ceiling fan, Smoke-free community + more
Scenic Oasis
Beachside charm in picturesque Point Loma Peninsula.
Elan Loma Highlands offers a cozy coastal living experience in the charming Point Loma Peninsula. With stunning Pacific Ocean views and proximity to iconic locations like Liberty Station, residents enjoy a community rich in history and culture. Known for its spacious layouts and welcoming atmosphere, this smoke-free community also allows cats, ensuring a delightful home for feline companions.
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Elán The Park
$2,495
4929 Del Monte Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 598-1244
Rent Savings
2 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
1 unit available
Studio
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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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,116, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,892. Rent rates updated 8 days ago

Studio: $2,598Trending down
1 Bed: $3,116Trending down
2 Beds: $3,892Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,766Trending down

* 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

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 (62)

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

Mission Arbor

Parkview Terrace

Casa Del Mar

The Park

The Fort

Park Diplomat

Village Apartments

Ancora

Mode

525 Olive Balboa Park

The Townsend

City Villas

Elan Pacific Palms

Elan Loma Highlands

Elán The Park

Elan Coco Palms

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?