How much rent should I pay in San Diego?

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.

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.

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.

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Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

1,276 rentals available

Elan Beachcomber La Jolla
$2,295
8115 El Paseo Grande, San Diego, CA 92037
(858) 758-1241
1 unit available
Studio
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Recently renovated, Stainless steel, Ceiling fan + more
Coastal Comfort
Ideal for pet-loving beach enthusiasts
Elan Beachcomber La Jolla offers a perfect coastal lifestyle with its pet-friendly environment, just steps away from the beach. Residents appreciate the inviting outdoor BBQ areas and picnic spots that complement the beautiful La Jolla weather. The convenience of on-site laundry and bike storage further enhance the living experience for an active community.
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Elan Luxo II
$2,775
1907 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 901-1993
Rent Savings
3 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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Ascent at Campus of Life
9890 Graduate Driveway, San Diego, CA 92131
(858) 567-0039
$3,250+ moTotal price12-mo lease
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
7231 Colchester Court, San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 457-4532
$2,279+ moTotal price14-mo lease
Rent Savings
16 units available
1 bed • 2 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
13006 Signature Point, San Diego, CA 92130
(619) 202-8176
$4,612+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
15 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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The Fort
$2,350
1011 Fort Stockton Drive, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 486-5418
Rent Savings
2 units available
Studio
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Air conditioning + more
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
$3,325
4075 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 649-9640
Rent Savings
4 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Air conditioning + 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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Ancora
110 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 486-5796
$2,360+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
193 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
$2,811+ moTotal price12-mo lease
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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Elán Ocean Walk Apartment Homes
$2,595
5077 Cape May Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(314) 888-9319
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Bbq/grill + more
Beachside Living
Steps from Ocean Beach and nearby conveniences!
Experience beachside living at Elán Ocean Walk Apartment Homes, just a short stroll from Ocean Beach and charming local shops. Residents love the vibrant community environment and praise the spacious layouts alongside modern amenities. Both dogs and cats are welcome, making it a perfect haven for pet lovers.
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Elán The Park
$2,595
4929 Del Monte Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 598-1244
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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Elán Beachwalk Apartments
$2,595
5025 Niagara Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(402) 513-2239
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Ceiling fan + more
Beachside Bliss
Steps from the beach and vibrant Newport Avenue.
Elán Beachwalk Apartments offer an unbeatable location just steps from the beach. Residents love being close to Newport Avenue, filled with shops and restaurants. The property is pet-friendly, welcoming both cats and dogs, and boasts on-site amenities like secure bike storage and laundry facilities.
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Elan Coco Palms
$3,200
4975 Del Monte Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
(440) 858-4014
1 unit available
2 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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Elan Ocean Lofts
$2,695
4838 Santa Cruz, San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 432-3347
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Beachside Bliss
Serene coastal living with pet-friendly convenience.
Elan Ocean Lofts offers a vibrant beachside community, ideally located in tranquil Point Loma Peninsula. Residents enjoy expansive one and two-bedroom apartments with modern kitchens and ample living spaces. With both cats and dogs welcome, the property supports a pet-loving lifestyle amid lush landscaping and convenient on-site amenities, including a laundry facility and bike storage.
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Mara Pacific Beach Apartments
$3,140
4275 Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
(619) 332-0655
9 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Google fiber, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Ideal Location
West coast lifestyle near Mission Bay Park
Mara Pacific Beach Apartments offers an unparalleled west coast lifestyle, situated steps away from Mission Bay Park. Residents enjoy easy access to abundant outdoor activities and picturesque views. With fantastic amenities like a saltwater pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, living here is truly an upscale experience. Plus, cats and dogs are warmly welcomed, making it a perfect fit for pet owners.
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Carmel Terrace
$2,488
11540 Windcrest Lane, San Diego, CA 92128
(858) 375-5697
Rent Savings
15 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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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,096+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,867+. Rent rates updated 4 days ago

Studio: $2,668+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,096+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,867+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,813+Trending up

* Averages are based on the rental prices of properties listed on Apartment List that don’t include fees

Top neighborhoods in San Diego

Northern San Diego
View 211 listings
What it’s like to live in Northern San Diego
Coastal-mountain fusion defines this enclave near Torrey Pines Gliderport. Renters enjoy canyon views but contend with Santa Ana winds rattling windows October-December. The UCSD Blue Line eases commutes but brings light rail noise.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Professionals
Young Renters
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Mixed-Use
Peaceful
Mixed-Use & Commercial
View 211 listings
College East
View 148 listings
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
View 148 listings
La Jolla
View 56 listings
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
View 56 listings

Neighborhoods

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Amenities

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San Diego Short-term Apartments (56)

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.

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Average rent in San Diego, California

Top neighborhoods in San Diego

Northern San Diego

What it’s like to live in Northern San Diego

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

College East

What it’s like to live in College East

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

La Jolla

What it’s like to live in La Jolla

Great for

Neighborhood vibe

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?