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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.

1,205 rentals available

Pinnacle on the Park
$2,250
424 15th St Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 773-0760
Rent Savings
81 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Vibrant Location
Thriving East Village lifestyle with top amenities.
Situated in San Diego's dynamic East Village, Pinnacle on the Park offers a prime location with easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Residents love the breathtaking city and bay views, with outstanding amenities such as a pool, gym, and pet-friendly features. The location is ideal for experiencing the vibrant lifestyle of Downtown San Diego.
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Canyon Ridge
$2,885
3187 Cowley Way, San Diego, CA 92117
(858) 263-1986
3 units available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Carport + more
Nature Proximity
Tranquil living near Tecolote Canyon Preserve
Canyon Ridge offers residents a serene escape next to the beautiful Tecolote Canyon Nature Preserve. With convenient access to downtown, Fashion Valley, and University Towne Center, enjoy nearby shopping and dining. You'll also appreciate this community's well-maintained and quiet environment, praised by residents for the reliable management and maintenance team.
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Pacific Cove
$1,790
4025 Oakcrest Drive, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 776-3836
Rent Savings
6 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Golf room, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Parkside Perfection
Proximity to Colina del Sol Park, amenities-rich location.
Pacific Cove offers residents a vibrant living experience next to Colina del Sol Park, where leisure opportunities abound. Renters will love the spacious apartments complete with in-unit washers and dryers, and wood-style plank flooring. The welcoming community embraces pet owners with open arms, allowing both dogs and cats. With a cost-effective price below the metro average, this property is a fantastic find!
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Vive Luxe
$2,403
4890 Sunroad Centrum Lane, San Diego, CA 92123
(858) 901-8329
21 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Luxury Living
Experience vibrant living at San Diego's Vive Luxe.
Vive Luxe promises a vibrant lifestyle with luxurious amenities. Residents love the spacious, stylish apartments and the abundance of features, including a gym and pool. Ideal for those seeking modern elegance in Eastern San Diego.
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Village Apartments
$2,495
7015 Eastman Street, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 771-2749
5 units available
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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5.0
Vora Mission Valley
4440 Twain Ave, San Diego, CA 92120
(614) 758-3506
$2,282+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
74 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher + more
Prime Location
Exceptional Features in a Vibrant Locale
Vora Mission Valley is where comfort meets convenience. Located just four miles from the bustling Gaslamp District, residents enjoy easy access to shops, dining, and entertainment. The property offers top-notch amenities like a pool, gym, and dog park, enhancing the comfy and modern living experience.
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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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Terraces at La Jolla Village Apartments
$3,194
8801-8879 Villa La Jolla Drive, San Diego, CA 92037
(602) 223-1261
3 units available
2 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Parking, Stainless steel, Walk in closets + more
Prime Location
Minutes from Shopping and Dining in La Jolla
Discover a vibrant lifestyle at Terraces at La Jolla Village Apartments, nestled in a prime location just steps from The Shops at La Jolla Village. With access to an array of dining and shopping options, residents relish in convenience and variety. The sleek, modern interiors, featuring stainless steel appliances and wood-style flooring, add to the enjoyment of this community.
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Prado
$2,095
6304 Rancho Mission Road, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 789-5816
Rent Savings
14 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Walk in closets + more
Convenient Location
Spacious living in vibrant Mission Valley neighborhood.
Prado offers spacious homes in the heart of Mission Valley, an area known for its vibrant atmosphere and easy access to world-class shopping and dining. This neighborhood's location is ideal for convenient commuting with nearby transport options and freeway access. Residents enjoy beautiful courtyards, two pools, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
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Mission Hills Commons
$2,940
4021 Falcon Street, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 492-7332
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Walk in closets + more
Charming Locale
Ideal location near vibrant amenities in Mission Hills.
Mission Hills Commons boasts a terrific location in the charming neighborhood of Mission Hills, San Diego. Residents enjoy being close to a plethora of dining options, grocery stores, and essential services. The peaceful environment and the excellent management team have garnered positive reviews, ensuring a delightful living experience. Plus, both dogs and cats are welcome, making it perfect for pet owners.
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Tenney North Park
2260 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
(760) 388-6973
$2,375+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
62 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
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Loma Portal
$2,350
3131 Cauby St, San Diego, CA 92110
(321) 204-7458
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Conveniently close to beaches and downtown.
Loma Portal boasts a prime location in San Diego's Midway District. It's just minutes away from local beaches, lively downtown, and key transportation hubs, offering unparalleled convenience. Residents enjoy spacious, clean units and appreciate the management's responsiveness. Cats and dogs are welcome too!
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The Wyatt at Makers Quarter
1509 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
(858) 223-1461
$2,299+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
39 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Gym + more
Urban Oasis
Luxury living in vibrant downtown San Diego.
Reside in luxury at The Wyatt, nestled in San Diego's lively Makers Quarter. Enjoy immediate access to entertainment and dining hotspots while benefiting from stunning amenities including a resort-style pool and rooftop deck. With cats and dogs welcome, it's the perfect retreat for pet lovers, highly praised by residents for its dreamlike atmosphere and professional staff.
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The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos
$2,096
15095 Via Hondonada, San Diego, CA 92129
(317) 279-6472
12 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Scenic Setting
Tranquil retreat with top schools and amenities
The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos showcases a serene neighborhood setting with stunning valley views. Nestled in lush, wooded landscapes, the property is next to the esteemed Rolling Hills Elementary in the Poway School District. Residents enjoy easy access to premier shopping, diverse dining, and seamless connectivity through nearby major highways.
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4.0
Cresta Bella
$2,982
11035 Via Livorno, San Diego, CA 92129
(858) 408-6609
Top rated for Amenities
8 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxury Living
Mediterranean style with top-notch amenities in Rancho Penasquitos.
Cresta Bella offers a luxurious living experience with Mediterranean-inspired architecture set against the backdrop of Rancho Penasquitos. Enjoy modern in-home conveniences and a suite of community amenities, including a dog park and saltwater pool. The location provides easy access to major highways, top-rated schools, and local shopping, making daily commutes smooth and straightforward.
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Treehouse
2525 1st Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 492-5490
$2,725+ moTotal price12-mo lease
86 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Pet friendly, New construction, Garage + more
Nature Oasis
Sophisticated sanctuary near Balboa Park and downtown delights.
Treehouse, in vibrant San Diego, offers a lush, sophisticated living environment inspired by Balboa Park. Pet-friendly amenities, smart-home technology, and proximity to downtown make this a haven for modern living. Enjoy a serene lifestyle with stylish architecture and resort-style facilities.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,048+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,798+. Rent rates updated 9 days ago

Studio: $2,603+Trending down
1 Bed: $3,048+Trending down
2 Beds: $3,798+Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,802+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

Pinnacle on the Park

Canyon Ridge

Pacific Cove

Vive Luxe

Village Apartments

Vora Mission Valley

Elan Loma Highlands

Terraces at La Jolla Village Apartments

Prado

Mission Hills Commons

Tenney North Park

Loma Portal

The Wyatt at Makers Quarter

The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos

Cresta Bella

Treehouse

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?