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.

Start your San Diego search

How many bedrooms do you need?

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

1,200 rentals available

Sofi Westview
$3,000
11760 Westview Pkwy, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 667-7984
9 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Luxury living at Sofi Westview in Mira Mesa
Sofi Westview provides an upscale lifestyle with its stylish and light-filled apartments, complemented by fantastic amenities like a pool and fitness center. Its location in Mira Mesa offers convenience, with easy access to shopping, dining, and major freeways. Residents love the friendly staff and the peaceful ambiance.
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Sofi Highlands
$3,128
11600 Compass Point Drive North, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 358-6618
7 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Scenic Retreat
Nature and modern comforts in harmony
Sofi Highlands offers a serene suburban lifestyle near Los Peasquitos Canyon Preserve. With trails at your doorstep and modern apartments equipped with in-unit laundry and walk-in closets, it's a haven for nature lovers. Pet-friendly policies and extensive amenities like a pool and basketball court make it a top choice for active individuals.
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ONE MONTH FREE — Newly Renovated, Sun-Filled Walkable Normal Heights Apartment
$2,745
4755 Felton Street, San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 202-8515
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
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Live in Luxury Right on the Bay! Assigned Parking! Peek A Boo Bay View!
$3,500
1251 Parker Place, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 779-0739
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Recently renovated, Stainless steel + more
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Ancora
$2,500
110 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 486-5796
Rent Savings
196 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
635 Robinson Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 330-8276
$2,495+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
14 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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GORGEOUS BRAND new home (ADU) 1bedroom 1bathroom in single-family neighborhood.
$2,650
10924 Polaris Drive, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 330-5797
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Air conditioning, Bike storage + more
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1 MONTH FREE ~ 2BR with Lots of Light in Great Pacific Beach Location!
$2,595
2071 Emerald Street, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 879-0926
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
Garage, Coffee bar, and Range
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Exquisite Pacific Beach 4 bedroom located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the coveted Floral Terrace community! Small Pet OK! Available Now!
$9,000
2463 Wilbur Avenue, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 923-4316
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
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5.0
Ironwood
2240 Ironwood Circle, San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 658-5674
$2,099+ moTotal price15-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
8 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Resort Living
Resort-style amenities near San Diego's lively attractions.
Ironwood in South San Diego offers a resort-like experience with a plethora of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and gym. Cats and dogs are welcome, making this an ideal choice for pet owners. Enjoy the advantage of living in a scenic, planned community surrounded by fabulous restaurants and vibrant city life.
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AMLI Aero
$2,935
3585 Aero Court, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 848-0357
Rent Savings
218 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Putting green, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Luxury Living
Rooftop pool and fitness-enhanced lifestyle.
AMLI Aero invites you to experience unparalleled luxury with its impressive rooftop pool, chic sunset terrace, and advanced fitness facilities. Residents embrace a vibrant community lifestyle enhanced by state-of-the-art amenities and stylish interiors. Convenient freeway access connects you swiftly to San Diego's attractions and business hubs.
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OPEN HOUSE: 01/25 1:30-2:30PM ~ 1 MONTH FREE ~ 2BR in Sail Bay with Parking!
$2,895
3817 Riviera Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 683-7342
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Parking, and Stainless steel
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3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Single Family Home in Desirable area of Talmadge
$3,395
4491 49th Street, San Diego, CA 92115
(619) 745-1164
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
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Perfectly Located 2BR in North Pacific Beach w/ Parking
$3,095
5042 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 727-5565
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, and Gym
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Verified listing
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OPEN HOUSE: 1/24 11:30AM-12:30PM 4 Bed with 3 Parking Spaces Washer/Dryer in Unit
$5,595
5978 Lauretta Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 332-2259
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
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3 bedroom 2 bath house for Lease
$4,500
5151 Limerick Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 227-6760
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Pool, and Fireplace
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,091+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,861+. Rent rates updated 5 days ago

Studio: $2,684+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,091+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,861+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,783+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

College East
View 151 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 151 listings
La Jolla
View 59 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 59 listings
Little Italy
View 12 listings
What it’s like to live in Little Italy
Little Italy combines urban energy with Italian heritage in this walkable downtown adjacent district. Rental options include converted historic buildings and luxury high-rises with harbor views from many units. While the popularity means premium rental rates and weekend crowds can create noise and parking challenges, residents enjoy exceptional walkability to both waterfront recreation and the area's famous restaurant scene with better climate than almost anywhere else in the country thanks to San Diego's perfect year-round weather.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Professionals
Young Renters
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Mixed-Use
Peaceful
Mixed-Use & Commercial
View 12 listings

Neighborhoods

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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.

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Sofi Westview

Sofi Highlands

ONE MONTH FREE — Newly Renovated, Sun-Filled Walkable Normal Heights Apartment

Live in Luxury Right on the Bay! Assigned Parking! Peek A Boo Bay View!

Ancora

Mode

GORGEOUS BRAND new home (ADU) 1bedroom 1bathroom in single-family neighborhood.

1 MONTH FREE ~ 2BR with Lots of Light in Great Pacific Beach Location!

Exquisite Pacific Beach 4 bedroom located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the coveted Floral Terrace community! Small Pet OK! Available Now!

Ironwood

AMLI Aero

OPEN HOUSE: 01/25 1:30-2:30PM ~ 1 MONTH FREE ~ 2BR in Sail Bay with Parking!

3 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Single Family Home in Desirable area of Talmadge

Perfectly Located 2BR in North Pacific Beach w/ Parking

OPEN HOUSE: 1/24 11:30AM-12:30PM 4 Bed with 3 Parking Spaces Washer/Dryer in Unit

3 bedroom 2 bath house for Lease

Average rent in San Diego, California

Top neighborhoods in San Diego

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

Little Italy

What it’s like to live in Little Italy

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?