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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.

1,290 rentals available

943 Torrance St
$5,625
943 Torrance Street, San Diego, CA 92103
1 unit available
2 bed
Tranquil Retreat
Secluded charm with canyon views and top conveniences.
943 Torrance St offers a peaceful setting with a unique 'treehouse' feel, nestled in a secluded cul-de-sac surrounded by lush canyons. Enjoy the convenience of easy access to Mission Hills, Hillcrest, and downtown San Diego, along with nearby major freeways that make commuting a breeze. Residents love the open layouts and high-quality finishes of the townhomes, perfect for entertaining.
Recently updated units
4749 Niagara Ave
$5,525
4749 Niagara Avenue, San Diego, CA 92107
1 unit available
1 bed
Beach Proximity
Steps to shops and beach serenity.
Nestled in the tranquil Point Loma Peninsula, 4749 Niagara Ave offers an ideal location for beach lovers. Residents enjoy a peaceful neighborhood vibe while being just a short stroll away from the beach and vibrant Newport Avenue's shops and eateries. A spacious shared deck with ocean views provides an exceptional outdoor experience, perfectly complemented by dedicated parking facilities.
Recently updated units
4942 Baja Ct
$8,200
4942 Baja Court, San Diego, CA 92115
1 unit available
3 bed
Modern Design
Spacious living with eco-friendly landscaping.
This stunning home in Eastern San Diego boasts modern design with vaulted ceilings and open-beam architecture, creating a spacious and airy atmosphere. Residents rave about the private backyard with a hot tub and fire pit—perfect for relaxation and social gatherings. The eco-friendly garden enhances the property's sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
Recently updated units
4007 Everts St
$6,125
4007 Everts Street, San Diego, CA 92109
1 unit available
3 bed
Beach Access
Coastal living with easy beach and bay access.
4007 Everts St offers the perfect coastal living experience with its close proximity to the beach and bay. Residents enjoy easy access to scenic walks and exciting water activities. The dog-friendly neighborhood adds to the charm, creating a welcoming environment for all.
Recently updated units
3407 N. Mountain View Dr
$5,625
3407 North Mountain View Drive, San Diego, CA 92116
1 unit available
2 bed
Charming Locale
Eclectic neighborhood with vibrant charm.
Nestled in San Diego’s Mid-City, this property offers residents an eclectic neighborhood with a vibrant community feel. It features a welcoming dog-friendly atmosphere and easy access to Adams Avenue’s diverse array of restaurants, bars, and shops. The central location ensures quick commutes to North Park, downtown, and Mission Beach.
Recently updated units
1494 Union St.
$4,625
1494 Union Street, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
1 bed
Modern Living
Bright, spacious apartments in vibrant Little Italy.
1494 Union St. offers a bright living experience with modern design and high ceilings. Residents enjoy the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy, known for its fantastic restaurants and community events. The secure entrance and underground parking provide added convenience and peace of mind.
Recently updated units
317 Upas St
$5,625
317 Upas Street, San Diego, CA 92103
1 unit available
1 bed
Luxurious Design
Stunning modern design in San Diego's Bankers Hill.
317 Upas Street showcases a stunning modern design with high-end finishes like 10-foot ceilings and stainless steel appliances. The impressive open layout features a massive quartz island, ideal for entertaining. Residents also appreciate the spa-like bathroom and private rooftop patio, which contribute to a truly luxurious living experience.
Recently updated units
1225 Island Avenue
$5,625
1225 Island Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
2 bed
Prime Location
Steps from dining & Petco Park excitement
Living at 1225 Island Avenue places you in the heart of downtown San Diego, just steps away from iconic locations like Petco Park and the bustling Gaslamp District. Residents praise the secure entry, underground parking, and amenities like a community jacuzzi and private balconies. The responsive property management ensures a smooth and welcoming experience for all.
Recently updated units
5609 Cervantes Ave
$7,125
5609 Cervantes Avenue, San Diego, CA 92114
1 unit available
4 bed
Highly Regarded
Praised for convenient location and friendly atmosphere.
5609 Cervantes Ave is celebrated for its convenient positioning near local amenities and excellent public transportation access. The property's community is warmly noted for its friendly and inviting environment. Tenants speak highly of the responsive and supportive management team.
Recently updated units
777 Sixth Avenue
$3,000
777 Sixth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
1 bed
Urban Retreat
Prime location in Gaslamp with modern loft-style units
777 Sixth Avenue offers a prime location in San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp Quarter. Residents enjoy easy access to dining, entertainment, and nightlife just steps away. The building boasts modern loft-style units with high ceilings and large windows, creating a bright and spacious living environment.
Recently updated units
700 West E St
$5,225
700 West E Street, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
1 bed
Iconic Elegance
Prime urban living with stunning bay views
Experience urban luxury at the Electra, an iconic San Diego building offering mesmerizing bay and downtown views. This fully-furnished unit provides a cozy and elegant lifestyle with top-notch amenities such as a pool, gym, and the unique Conservatory. Enjoy the vibrant lifestyle with nearby access to the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy.
Recently updated units
7606 Rainswept Lane
$5,100
7606 Rainswept Lane, San Diego, CA 92119
1 unit available
2 bed
Peaceful Retreat
Charming neighborhood with serene mountain views.
Located in Eastern San Diego, this property enjoys a reputation for its relaxed and tranquil surroundings, complemented by stunning mountain views. The friendly neighborhood fosters a sense of community with spacious plots and ample parks, perfect for leisurely walks, especially if you have a dog. You'll love the peaceful atmosphere and low crime rates that add to the area's charm.
Recently updated units
1150 J Street
$4,325
1150 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
2 bed
Prime Location
Downtown convenience at your doorstep.
1150 J Street is nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offering easy access to Petco Park and the San Diego Public Library. Residents rave about its prime location and the variety of dining and shopping experiences nearby. The community's friendly atmosphere and social events, like wine tastings and holiday parties, create lasting bonds among neighbors.
Recently updated units
4139 Lemonseed Dr
$4,325
4139 Lemonseed Drive, San Diego, CA 92154
1 unit available
3 bed
Convenient Location
Near shopping and vibrant community amenities.
4139 Lemonseed Drive features a convenient location near shopping centers and public transportation, praised by residents for ease of access. The property offers a well-maintained fitness center and swimming pool, enhancing the lifestyle of its community. Residents enjoy a safe and welcoming neighborhood supported by a friendly and responsive management team.
Recently updated units
450 J Street
$3,825
450 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101
1 unit available
1 bed
Prime Location
Ideal Locale with Stellar Amenities and Service
Located in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp district, this property offers residents seamless access to downtown attractions and public transport. Residents praise the rooftop pool and fitness center, along with the proactive management team. The community atmosphere further enhances the experience of living here.
Recently updated units
2646 A St
$4,025
2646 A Street, San Diego, CA 92102
1 unit available
1 bed
Central Convenience
Comfortable living near downtown San Diego.
Enjoy immaculate, fully furnished apartments with essential comforts. This property features a quiet, secure environment that residents appreciate, with easy access to downtown San Diego. The central location is perfect for seamless commuting.
Recently updated units

The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,133+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,919+. Rent rates updated 6 days ago

Studio: $2,609+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,133+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,919+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,807+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

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

Little Italy

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

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

943 Torrance St

4749 Niagara Ave

4942 Baja Ct

4007 Everts St

3407 N. Mountain View Dr

1494 Union St.

317 Upas St

1225 Island Avenue

5609 Cervantes Ave

777 Sixth Avenue

700 West E St

7606 Rainswept Lane

1150 J Street

4139 Lemonseed Dr

450 J Street

2646 A St

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?