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

1,210 rentals available

Instrata Little Italy
$2,594
1980 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 901-1405
Rent Savings
16 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
Pet friendly, Garage, Gym, Pool, Elevator, Smoke-free community + more
Vibrant Locale
Experience dynamic living in Little Italy, San Diego.
Instrata Little Italy offers a dynamic lifestyle in San Diego's Little Italy. Enjoy residing in a prime location surrounded by acclaimed dining spots and vibrant entertainment options. The property boasts modern amenities, including a pool and gym, tailored for a balanced and energetic lifestyle.
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4.3
The Courtyards Pacific Village
Ask for price
10977 Pacific Point Place, San Diego, CA 92129
(858) 295-3022
Top rated for Location
“It is very well appointed. Great amenities. Safe.”
Contact for Availability
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
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4.0
Cresta Bella
Ask for price
11035 Via Livorno, San Diego, CA 92129
(858) 408-6609
Top rated for Amenities
Contact for Availability
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
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The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos
Ask for price
15095 Via Hondonada, San Diego, CA 92129
(317) 279-6472
Contact for Availability
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
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The Villas at Camino Bernardo
Ask for price
11203 Paseo Montanoso, San Diego, CA 92127
(858) 780-4836
Contact for Availability
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
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The Overlook at Bernardo Heights
15909 Avenida Venusto, San Diego, CA 92128
(619) 202-8352
$2,371+ moTotal price12-mo lease
33 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Hilltop Serenity
Peaceful spaces with top-notch amenities await.
Experience hilltop serenity at The Overlook at Bernardo Heights, offering a tranquil setting with lush landscaping. Enjoy the convenience of a premium location with spacious layouts and a variety of upscale amenities, including both a pool and jacuzzi. The property offers excellent value, all while being just a short distance from local schools, parks, and dining options.
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Elán Sandrock Place Apartments
$2,195
3443 Sandrock Road, San Diego, CA 92123
(619) 558-2910
1 unit available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Parking, Recently renovated, Ceiling fan + more
Pet Paradise
Vibrant living in San Diego's Serra Mesa neighborhood
Elán Sandrock Place Apartments provides a welcoming oasis for pet lovers, with both dogs and cats permitted. Situated in the charming Serra Mesa neighborhood, residents enjoy easy access to a variety of dining and entertainment options. On-site amenities like laundry facilities and covered parking ensure convenience and comfort. Recent renovations and a high level of maintenance add to the community's appeal.
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Elán Baylofts
$2,895
1450 Pacific Beach Drive, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 808-2328
Rent Savings
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Coastal Charm
Perfect Location Near Beaches and Amenities
Elán Baylofts offers a serene beachside lifestyle in Pacific Beach, San Diego. Residents love the prime location, just a stroll away from the beach and bay. Complete with modern amenities and pet-friendly policies, both cats and dogs are welcome. The spectacular pool and attentive staff enhance the vibrant community experience.
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Elan Luxo II
Ask for price
1907 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 901-1993
Rent Savings
Contact for Availability
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Verified listing
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Aspen Park
Ask for price
3505 Reynard Way, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 853-6217
Contact for Availability
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Cats allowed, Parking + more
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Elan Terraza La Jolla
$2,495
5165 Luigi Terrace, San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 330-6470
Rent Savings
2 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Coastal Living
Coastal charm meets modern convenience in La Jolla.
Elan Terraza La Jolla offers a coastal haven in vibrant San Diego, embracing a pet-friendly lifestyle. Immerse yourself in a well-maintained, peaceful community with thoughtfully updated interiors and excellent management. Residents revel in the convenience of on-site amenities like a pool and business center.
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The Parker Residences
$3,710
5295 Kona Springs Lane, San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 304-9452
Rent Savings
7 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Luxury Comfort
Refined living with upscale amenities near Mission Valley.
The Parker Residences offers luxurious townhome living with exceptional amenities a stone's throw from Mission Valley. Enjoy spacious, pet-friendly homes with gourmet kitchens and private balconies. Delight in the resort-style pool and fitness center, and benefit from convenient access to nearby highways for easy commuting.
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Silo at Epoca
7231 Colchester Court, San Diego, CA 92154
(619) 457-4532
$2,279+ moTotal price14-mo lease
Rent Savings
15 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Stylish Comfort
Modern living close to downtown San Diego.
Silo at Epoca offers modern and spacious apartments in a peaceful and friendly environment. Residents love the smart home technology and ample natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Pet owners will appreciate the dog-friendly amenities, including an off-leash dog park. Conveniently located, it's just 20 minutes from downtown San Diego with seamless freeway access.
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Signature Point
13006 Signature Point, San Diego, CA 92130
(619) 202-8176
$3,956+ moTotal price12-mo lease
16 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxury Amenities
Upscale living in vibrant San Diego neighborhood
Signature Point offers an upscale living experience with luxurious amenities like a resort-style pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center, all in a well-maintained setting. Residents enjoy tranquility and convenience, with easy access to San Diego's fine dining and entertainment options just steps away. The management's commitment to excellent service ensures a pleasant living experience for all.
Recently updated units
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5.0
Dylan Point Loma
2930 Barnard Street, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 361-8107
$2,425+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“We love living here, we love the space. Not crazy about the overall location and wish it wasn't so dense in the neighborhood in general but we love management our apartment and amenities and the maitenence crew is awesome! The rental rates in San Diego are a bit out of control and we do wish it was a bit less expensive but it is worth it for the pool and other amenities etc”
31 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Resort Lifestyle
Resort-inspired amenities and prime coastal location.
Dylan Point Loma offers a stunning blend of resort-inspired amenities and a prime coastal location in San Diego. Residents love the convenience of nearby ocean access and major freeways, alongside excellent community features like the pool and dog park. The property boasts a friendly management team and is a short distance from top schools, parks, and a myriad of dining options.
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Citrino
$2,225
6916 Fulton Street, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 879-1893
2 units available
Studio • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Sustainable Luxury
Eco-friendly elegance in vibrant San Diego.
Citrino offers an exquisite living experience in Western San Diego, showcasing sustainability and modern design. This all-solar community provides eco-friendly features, such as EV charging, and welcomes both cats and dogs. Residents appreciate the stylish, well-maintained apartments and the surrounding conveniences including shopping and dining options.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,073+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,832+. Rent rates updated 4 days ago

Studio: $2,630+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,073+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,832+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,760+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 139 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 139 listings
La Jolla
View 61 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 61 listings
Point Loma Peninsula
View 38 listings
What it’s like to live in Point Loma Peninsula
Oceanfront living thrives near Cabrillo National Monument's tide pools. Studio rents exceed $3k for units with Navy Base views. June Gloom fog dampens patio use May-July, while summer tourist boats dominate Shelter Island parking.
Great for
Families
Retirees
Professionals
Young Renters
Commuters
Neighborhood vibe
Mixed-Use
Peaceful
Mixed-Use & Commercial
View 38 listings

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Amenities

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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.

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Instrata Little Italy

The Courtyards Pacific Village

Cresta Bella

The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos

The Villas at Camino Bernardo

The Overlook at Bernardo Heights

Elán Sandrock Place Apartments

Elán Baylofts

Elan Luxo II

Aspen Park

Elan Terraza La Jolla

The Parker Residences

Silo at Epoca

Signature Point

Dylan Point Loma

Citrino

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

Point Loma Peninsula

What it’s like to live in Point Loma Peninsula

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?