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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.

1,276 rentals available

Purl
$2,526
7901 Civita Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92108
(717) 373-2124
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Golf room, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Resort Lifestyle
Luxury living with resort-style amenities and scenic surroundings.
Enjoy luxury living with resort-style amenities at Purl in Mission Valley, San Diego. Steps away from a 14-acre park and near vibrant shopping and dining, this pet-friendly community combines urban convenience with serene home experiences. Cats and dogs are welcome, making it a perfect choice for pet lovers.
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Gramercy
$2,209
9072 Gramercy Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
(330) 615-6842
14 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Pool, and Accessible
Community Charm
Well-maintained amenities in a serene neighborhood.
Experience the perfect blend of community and convenience at Gramercy. Residents love its prime location, offering easy access to shopping, dining, and transportation. The property boasts well-maintained amenities such as a fitness center and pool that enhance the living experience. Additionally, cats are welcomed, making it an ideal home for feline enthusiasts.
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One Paseo
3275 Del Mar Heights Road, San Diego, CA 92130
(401) 355-8629
$3,249+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
25 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, Garage, Gym, Pool + more
Vibrant Lifestyle
Live amidst shops and dining in dynamic Carmel Valley.
One Paseo offers a vibrant and stylish living experience in Carmel Valley. With a range of modern homes set in a lively village filled with shops and restaurants, day-to-day convenience is unmatched. Residents love the resort-style pool and fitness center, while both cats and dogs are welcomed, making it a perfect fit for pet owners.
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The Reserve At 4s Ranch
$2,524
10411 Reserve Drive, San Diego, CA 92127
(619) 356-2391
Rent Savings
13 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Pet Paradise
Convenient living in serene community.
Nestled in the heart of 4S Ranch, The Reserve offers a serene, community-driven experience. Residents enjoy easy access to numerous restaurants, parks, and schools within walking distance. With upscale amenities and a welcoming pet-friendly atmosphere, this is a desirable location for those looking for convenience and peace.
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Pacific Sands
$2,865
5550 Balboa Arms Drive, San Diego, CA 92117
(831) 653-5869
Rent Savings
7 units available
2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking + more
Serene Retreat
Peaceful living in San Diego's Clairemont Mesa East
Pacific Sands offers a serene retreat in the heart of Clairemont Mesa East, San Diego. Residents love the peaceful and friendly atmosphere, modern amenities, and excellent management. With dog lovers and cat owners welcome, this community is an ideal home near abundant local eateries and essential services.
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West Park Apartments
$2,379
7777 Westside Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 357-4987
59 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Vibrant Community
Engaging social events and top-notch amenities.
West Park Apartments offer a vibrant social atmosphere with events like outdoor movie nights and pool parties. Residents rave about the friendly and attentive staff who provide personalized service. The location is perfect for accessing local conveniences such as Starbucks and the beach, all within a short drive. Amenities like multiple saltwater pools and a well-equipped gym enhance the living experience.
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Crandall
$2,708
2154 Garston St, San Diego, CA 92111
(812) 398-7132
Rent Savings
6 units available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Playground, Basketball court, Bbq/grill + more
Pet Paradise
Welcoming community near conveniences and pet-friendly amenities.
Crandall offers a welcoming environment with pet-friendly policies and modern amenities. Enjoy recent renovations that enhance comfort and style. The management's friendly and attentive service ensures a smooth experience from application to move-in.
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Westbrook Apartments
$2,680
7134 Schilling Avenue, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 216-2140
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Carport, Walk in closets + more
Cost-effective Comfort
Comfort and convenience in lively Northeastern San Diego.
Westbrook Apartments stands out with its cost-effective pricing, set in a vibrant San Diego neighborhood. Residents enjoy well-maintained amenities like a refreshing pool and gym, along with a professional management team ready to assist. Conveniently located, the property offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options nearby.
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Gables Point Loma
$2,146
3801 Marquette Place, San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 458-3112
22 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Ocean Views
Spectacular views and top amenities await in San Diego.
Gables Point Loma offers an exquisite lifestyle with incredible ocean and city views, perfect for those who relish breathtaking vistas. Located just minutes from downtown San Diego, this fully renovated community provides easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures such as beach biking and Sunset Cliffs hiking. Furthermore, being 18% below the metro's average price makes it a great value for residents who want more for less.
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The Summit at Point Loma
$2,295
3950 Leland Street, San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 202-8104
Rent Savings
14 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxury Convenience
Luxury living with coastal views and amenities.
The Summit at Point Loma offers enviable coastal views and luxury living. Located with easy access to downtown San Diego and stunning beaches, this property ensures convenience without compromise. Enjoy well-maintained amenities such as a pool, spa, and fitness center in this pet-friendly community.
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The Promenade Rio Vista
$2,954
2185 Station Village Way, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 361-8157
Rent Savings
21 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Metro Convenience
Prime location near trolley and Mission Valley attractions.
The Promenade Rio Vista stands out with its prime Mission Valley location, offering direct access to the Rio Vista Trolley Station for seamless commuting across San Diego. Residents relish the wide range of engaging community events, such as yoga classes and movie nights, that enrich the living experience. With pet-friendly amenities including a dedicated dog wash area, it’s a welcoming environment for furry companions.
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Mesa Village
$2,455
11355 Zapata Avenue, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 239-0138
Rent Savings
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Urban Oasis
Luxury living in quiet Mira Mesa neighborhood.
Mesa Village offers a blend of urban living and luxury in Northeastern San Diego. Residents can enjoy the comfort of spacious floor plans with updated kitchens and bathrooms, creating an inviting home environment. Reviews praise the peaceful setting and the excellent service provided by professional staff, enhancing the living experience.
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Mesa Vista
$2,345
7980 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA 92111
(619) 383-1689
6 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated + more
Resort Lifestyle
Central living with resort-style amenities in San Diego.
Mesa Vista Apartments offers an exceptional lifestyle with a resort-style pool and BBQ area, ideal for relaxation and entertaining. Located just minutes from Clairemont Mesa's vibrant dining scene and providing easy access to Mesa College and UC San Diego, it delivers both convenience and excitement. Residents rave about the professional management and maintenance, creating a welcoming, well-kept atmosphere.
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The Village at Del Mar Heights
$3,042
13138 Kellam Court, San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 519-5536
Rent Savings
14 units available
1 bed • 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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Montierra
$2,623
9904 Kika Court, San Diego, CA 92129
(858) 762-9800
Rent Savings
9 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Cable included, Carport + more
Pet Haven
Perfect balance of modern comfort and active lifestyle.
Montierra Apartments shines with spacious floor plans and recently renovated modern features, ensuring comfort and style. Its proximity to the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve offers endless outdoor adventures, while easy access to I-15 and 56 Freeways simplifies commuting. Plus, with cats and dogs welcome, it’s a delightful haven for pet owners.
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Carmel Terrace
$2,387
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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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,092+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,855+. Rent rates updated 8 days ago

Studio: $2,609+Trending down
1 Bed: $3,092+Trending down
2 Beds: $3,855+Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,813+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

Northern San Diego

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

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

Neighborhoods

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

Price

Amenities

Property Type

San Diego Short-term Apartments (59)

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

Purl

Gramercy

One Paseo

The Reserve At 4s Ranch

Pacific Sands

West Park Apartments

Crandall

Westbrook Apartments

Gables Point Loma

The Summit at Point Loma

The Promenade Rio Vista

Mesa Village

Mesa Vista

The Village at Del Mar Heights

Montierra

Carmel Terrace

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?