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

1,280 rentals available

The MINN
$2,315
1905 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92102
(619) 514-0652
50 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, 24hr gym + more
Stylish Comfort
Scandinavian design meets San Diego lifestyle.
The MINN offers Scandinavian-inspired design and a warm atmosphere, perfectly situated near downtown San Diego and Balboa Park. Enjoy the 24-hour fitness center, spacious layouts with high ceilings, and the pet-friendly environment. The community's sky lounge, complete with a fire pit and BBQ, provides an ideal spot to socialize.
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Terraces at La Jolla Village Apartments
$3,050
8801-8879 Villa La Jolla Drive, San Diego, CA 92037
(602) 223-1261
2 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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Mission Hills Commons
$2,660
4021 Falcon Street, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 492-7332
3 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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Prado
$1,995
6304 Rancho Mission Road, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 789-5816
Rent Savings
9 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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Windsor Rancho PQ
$2,620
14433 Penasquitos Drive, San Diego, CA 92129
(858) 330-0528
21 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Garage, Stainless steel + more
Luxurious Serenity
Discover serene luxury near top schools in San Diego.
Windsor Rancho PQ offers the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility in the serene neighborhood of Rancho Penasquitos, San Diego. Cats and dogs are welcome in these spacious apartments featuring high-end finishes and in-unit laundry. Enjoy hotel-like amenities, including a refreshing pool, comprehensive gym, and convenient business center. Nearby, discover excellent schools, beautiful parks, and delightful dining options all within a mile.
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Pacific Cove
$1,580
4025 Oakcrest Drive, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 776-3836
Rent Savings
7 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 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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900 F Street
$1,795
900 F St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 916-4298
Rent Savings
9 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime Location
Central hub in downtown San Diego
900 F Street is a fantastic choice for city living. Nestled in the heart of San Diego, it offers immediate access to the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter and an array of top-notch restaurants, entertainment venues, and public transportation all within walking distance. Enjoy modern amenities and the convenience of living at a standout location.
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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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Genesis
$1,695
5492 Imperial Avenue, San Diego, CA 92114
(619) 489-8847
3 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, Parking, Recently renovated, Air conditioning, and Some paid utils
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Folia
12520 Camino Del Sur, San Diego, CA 92129
(619) 649-6366
$3,135+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
174 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly
Natural Serenity
Embrace tranquility and convenience at Folia San Diego.
Folia offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, nestled in a serene area surrounded by hills, canyons, and tall trees. Residents love the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to local markets, restaurants, and major stores. Enjoy easy access to major highways such as the 15 and 56, providing a seamless commute.
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625 Broadway
625 Broadway Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 485-6570
$2,139+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
14 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Unique Design
Historic charm with modern amenities in downtown San Diego.
625 Broadway offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it stand out in downtown San Diego. With its central location, residents enjoy easy access to the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, and numerous dining options. The property features luxurious amenities like a state-of-the-art fitness center and a yoga studio, complemented by responsive management praised in reviews.
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Entrada Apartments
453 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101
(928) 235-9340
$1,900+ moTotal price14-mo lease
Rent Savings
11 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Prime Location
Convenient downtown San Diego living with abundant amenities.
Entrada Apartments offers ideal city living with its prime location in East Village, San Diego. Residents rave about the easy walkability to grocery stores, coffee shops, and Petco Park. The apartments are especially welcoming to pets, offering a dog-friendly environment with nearby parks. The professional and friendly management team ensures a pleasant and hassle-free living experience.
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4.0
La Jolla Crossroads
$2,575
9085 University City, San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 683-6692
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“I love the location but it is noisy place. I have several complaint about my upstair neighbor’s noise. I couldn’t get a result about it. Heavy footsteps, constantly through heavy stuff on their floor which is my roof. Apart from that, smoke odor is normal everyday. It means some people smoke without care. Those are the main problems I have in my side. Talking about the rent amount, it looks like a little excessive if I take into account the poor maintenance of the washer, dryer, stove, microwave and so on. Apart from that, I don’t have any complaint to add.”
37 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Amenity Haven
Vibrant living with exceptional amenities in San Diego.
La Jolla Crossroads is your gateway to vibrant living in San Diego's University City. Just a free shuttle ride from the bustling Westfield UTC Mall, this community offers outstanding convenience and access to entertainment. Residents rave about the peaceful atmosphere, with on-site playgrounds and a wealth of amenities, including multiple pools, making life enjoyable and enriched.
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Rowyn
$2,225
3775 Sixth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 353-7779
Rent Savings
357 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Cats allowed, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Urban Oasis
Modern living in vibrant Hillcrest neighborhood.
Discover Rowyn, a modern oasis located in the lively Hillcrest neighborhood of San Diego. Enjoy upscale amenities like a rooftop pool and yoga studio, with the added convenience of in-unit laundry and state-of-the-art technology. Cats are welcome, making Rowyn a perfect home for those with feline friends.
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Concert Towers
$2,570
955 Eleventh Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(256) 293-5780
Rent Savings
247 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, New construction, Stainless steel + more
Spectacular Views
Luxury Living in Vibrant Downtown
Concert Towers provides luxurious living in the heart of downtown San Diego. Enjoy breathtaking city and Marina views from the newly constructed residences. Engage with premier amenities like a rooftop lounge, infinity pool, and expansive gym. The location offers unparalleled access to downtown attractions including the Historic Gaslamp District and PETCO Park.
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Costa Verde Village
$2,550
8720 Costa Verde Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92192
(304) 449-8685
Rent Savings
31 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Air conditioning + more
Convenient Living
Vibrant community with exceptional amenities near UCSD.
Costa Verde Village offers a remarkable living experience with spacious floor plans and well-designed layouts that residents love. Its prime location near UCSD, dining, and shopping centers makes it ideal for both students and professionals. The property's amenities, including a quality fitness center and prompt maintenance services, enhance the overall living experience in this vibrant community.
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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 7 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 158 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 158 listings
College East
View 118 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 118 listings
Mid-city
View 63 listings
What it’s like to live in Mid-city
Authentic diversity thrives in Mid-City San Diego, where global communities have created one of the city's most vibrant culinary scenes along El Cajon Boulevard. The neighborhood offers significantly better rental value than coastal or downtown options while maintaining straightforward access to both through excellent public transportation. As San Diego's original streetcar suburb, Mid-City features distinctive architecture spanning multiple eras, creating character increasingly rare across the city's newer developments dominated by contemporary styling with limited architectural diversity.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Professionals
Young Renters
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Mixed-Use
Peaceful
Mixed-Use & Commercial
View 63 listings

Neighborhoods

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San Diego Short-term Apartments (60)

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

Mid-city

What it’s like to live in Mid-city

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?