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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.

1,316 rentals available

Sofi Westview
$3,126
11760 Westview Pkwy, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 667-7984
11 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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iL Palazzo
$2,635
2040 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 202-8631
Rent Savings
7 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Vibrant Locale
Boutique community in Little Italy's heart
Experience the vibrant lifestyle of Little Italy with iL Palazzo. Residents rave about the unbeatable location offering proximity to dining, shopping, and entertainment. With a variety of cafes, restaurants, and entertainment venues just steps away, you'll enjoy the best of San Diego. The beautifully maintained units and friendly management team ensure a seamless living experience.
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4.7
Griffis East Village
$2,350
688 13th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 547-1324
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“I love living here. The staff is comprised of the most amazing, helpful people who have made my experience here incredible. The security is top notch and I have never felt unsafe, even being located downtown. I’d recommend this place to anyone.”
10 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Prime Location
Pet-friendly apartments near San Diego's top attractions.
Griffis East Village is a standout in San Diego, offering pet-friendly apartments with modern amenities. Located near Balboa Park and Gaslamp Quarter, it provides easy access to top attractions. Residents love the prime location and modern amenities, making it perfect for those who want the best of city living.
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5.0
Cielo
915 West Grape Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(301) 857-5163
$3,485+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Entire experience at Cielo has been wonderful. Management is great, location unbeatable, amenities are awesome, building itself is very sexy. As for the units: unique layouts, high ceilings, AC, in-unit washer dyers, great natural light, and views of the harbor. Coming from PB, it's been game-changing.”
6 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Rooftop Views
Elevated Living with Stunning Bay Views
Cielo offers an elevated living experience with stunning rooftop views of San Diego Bay. It is conveniently located with easy access to Waterfront Park, local restaurants, and the vibrant Little Italy Farmers Market. The pet-friendly environment and close proximity to a nearby park make it perfect for dog owners.
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These units are the best deal in town.
720 Fourth Avenue 2415/ 202 (Model)
1 Bed • 0.5 Baths • 98 sqft
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7933 Merrington Pl unit: Room For Rent Room For Rent
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 350 sqft
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7460 Batista Street 1 Bed
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 126 sqft
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3102 G Street - 3102#4 0 Bed
Studio • 1 Bath
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10006 Maya Linda Rd unit: 5203 B - Room For Rent 5203 B - Room For Rent
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 956 sqft
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Gables Point Loma
$2,097
3801 Marquette Place, San Diego, CA 92106
(619) 458-3112
19 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
24hr laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Ocean Views
Spectacular views and top amenities await in San Diego.
Gables Point Loma offers an exquisite lifestyle with incredible ocean and city views, perfect for those who relish breathtaking vistas. Located just minutes from downtown San Diego, this fully renovated community provides easy access to shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures such as beach biking and Sunset Cliffs hiking. Furthermore, being 18% below the metro's average price makes it a great value for residents who want more for less.
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Surfcaster
$1,895
5050 Niagara Avenue, Unit 106, San Diego, CA 92107
(619) 431-4478
7 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
E-payments, Online portal, and CC payments
Beachfront Living
Prime Beachside Location with Pet-Friendly Amenities
Surfcaster offers a prime beachside location, just steps from sun, sand, and surf. Residents love the pet-friendly community, with nearby dog parks adding to its appeal. Enjoy spacious floor plans and stylish interiors for a comfortable living experience.
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800 Broadway
$2,275
800 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
(314) 866-4481
Rent Savings
109 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Gym + more
Sky-high Luxury
Iconic views and lavish amenities at 800 Broadway.
800 Broadway offers stunning 360-degree views from San Diego's highest rooftop pool and sky lounge. Residents enjoy a top-tier living experience with luxurious amenities like a speakeasy lounge and state-of-the-art fitness center. Located near vibrant neighborhoods, the building provides easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
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The Hub
$2,600
9840 Carroll Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92131
(858) 302-4173
Rent Savings
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Luxurious Retreat
Modern living with abundant amenities in a prime location.
The Hub offers a luxurious community experience with modern, well-equipped units featuring top-of-the-line appliances. The numerous amenities, such as the resort-style pool and fitness center, provide ample reasons to relax and stay active. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and major highways, The Hub ensures residents enjoy easy access to all essentials.
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Bradbury at The Society
$2,747
610 Del Sol Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 251-6811
Rent Savings
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking + more
Modern Comfort
Convenient luxury living in Mission Valley.
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Mission Valley, Bradbury at The Society offers effortless luxury living. Experience the convenience of keyless entry and Nest technology in modern apartments designed with high-quality finishes. Residents love the resort-style amenities like the pool and fitness center that create a deluxe lifestyle right at home.
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The Margo
$2,867
201 Del Sol Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 422-3754
18 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed + more
Luxurious Lifestyle
Stylish, modern living in the heart of San Diego.
The Margo offers a luxurious living experience with modern amenities, including a pool and a fitness center for relaxation and wellness. Located in vibrant Mission Valley, residents enjoy quick access to grocery stores, dining options, and shopping centers. The reviews praise the spacious apartments, sophisticated finishes, and friendly, responsive staff.
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Luxury apartments
Top units for an elevated lifestyle.
2605 Calle Del Oro 4 Bed
4 Beds • 6 Baths • 6580 sqft
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2082 Via Casa Alta 5 Bed
5 Beds • 6 Baths • 6930 sqft
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1001 La Jolla Rancho Rd 6 Bed
6 Beds • 7 Baths • 5707 sqft
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7853 Via Capri 6 Bed
6 Beds • 6 Baths • 5553 sqft
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6125 Terryhill Dr 5 Bed
5 Beds • 7 Baths • 6256 sqft
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Hilltop Terrace
$1,598
4166 4th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 535-1014
4 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Granite counters, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Recently renovated, Walk in closets + more
Vibrant Locale
Charming Hillcrest apartment near iconic parks and attractions.
Hilltop Terrace in Hillcrest offers a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. This smoke-free community, set in the heart of San Diego, provides diverse amenities like a pool, on-site laundry, and renovated interiors. With a pet-friendly policy, dogs and cats can enjoy nearby parks and walking paths.
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3167 Market Street
3167 Market Street, San Diego, CA 92102
(912) 417-3483
$2,100 moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
4 units available
1 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Pet friendly, Bike storage, Key fob access, Microwave + more
Prime Access
Exceptional connectivity to vibrant San Diego hotspots.
3167 Market Street offers an exceptional living experience with unmatched connectivity. Situated just 2 miles from downtown San Diego and half a mile from the trolley station, residents enjoy easy access to UCSD, SDSU, and Old Town. Cats and dogs are welcome, making it ideal for pet lovers. The vibrant community benefits from modern facilities, responsive management, and a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
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4.0
Ocean Air
10500 Sea Pearl Cove, San Diego, CA 92130
(858) 943-0253
$4,364 moTotal price12-mo lease
Top rated for Amenities
“Ocean Air has been a nice community to live in - well maintained and properly managed. No issues with noisy neighbors. Expensive to live here, but a nice community overall.”
3 units available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxurious Living
Embrace Sophisticated Coastal Living in San Diego
Ocean Air offers a remarkable living experience with its townhome-style residences nestled in the highly desired Torrey Hills neighborhood. Residents adore the community for its modern, cozy design, spacious kitchens, and comfortable living areas. With amenities like the pool, gym, and outdoor grills, this smoke-free community provides a relaxing environment. Proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment, along with convenient freeway access, makes it perfect for exploring.
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Winslow
$2,280
4353 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 569-1776
Rent Savings
18 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Charming Lifestyle
Embrace sophisticated living in an eclectic neighborhood.
Winslow offers an amenity-rich experience in the charming University Heights neighborhood, creating a seamless blend of art, tradition, and modern living. Residents appreciate its walkable area, with convenient access to numerous restaurants, parks, and shops. The pet-friendly environment, combined with amenities like a gym, pool, and entertainment lounge, enhances the overall living experience.
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5.0
AVA Pacific Beach
$2,131
3883 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA 92109
(936) 851-1731
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
26 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction, Cable included + more
Resort Living
Stylish beachside residences, resort-like amenities.
AVA Pacific Beach features exceptional resort-like amenities including a stunning pool and large jacuzzi. Residents love the pet spa and fully equipped kitchens in these stylish apartments. Located within walking distance of the beach and a vibrant dining scene, this property is both cost-effective and comfortable, a delightful place to call home.
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Strata
$3,431
969 Market Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 377-4191
Rent Savings
5 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
W/D hookup, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Luxury Living
Luxurious East Village Retreat in San Diego
Strata offers an exceptional living experience in San Diego's vibrant East Village, characterized by luxury accommodations and upscale amenities. With its proximity to the lively Gaslamp District, Petco Park, and scenic San Diego Bay, residents enjoy an exciting blend of entertainment and leisure. The apartment's features like spacious interiors with high ceilings and stunning views make it a sought-after residence.
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City Guide

The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,092+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,855+. Rent rates updated 2 days ago

Studio: $2,609+Trending down
1 Bed: $3,092+Trending down
2 Beds: $3,855+Trending down
3+ Beds: $4,813+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

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

Hillcrest

What it’s like to live in Hillcrest

LGBTQ+ energy pulses through this district near Balboa Park, with renters loving walkable access to University Avenue's indie cafes. Nightlife noise from The Rail tests soundproofing until 2AM weekends. Parking permits cost $180+/year.

Great for

Artists

Creatives

Young Professionals

Music Lovers

Entrepreneurs

Neighborhood vibe

Trendy

Creative

Revitalized

Neighborhoods

More Rental Options

Bedrooms

Price

Amenities

Property Type

San Diego Short-term Apartments (54)

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.

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

Welcome to the Apartment List December 2025 Rent Report for San Diego, CA. Currently, the overall median rent in the city stands at $2,267, after falling 1.0% last month. Prices are now down 1.4% year-over-year. Read on to learn more about what’s been happening in the San Diego rental market and how it compares to trends throughout the broader San Diego metro area and the nation as a whole.

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

Apartments for Rent in San Diego

Thinking about moving to San Diego, but not sure what you're in for as a renter? We wrote this guide to demystify renting in the area and help you discover whether San Diego is the place for you.

You've probably heard a lot about the challenges of housing in California. The SD market isn’t cutthroat like the Bay Area or NYC, but it’s still what you would expect from a growing SoCal metropolis. That said, approach hunting like a job interview: do your homework on neighborhoods and complexes you like, bring the necessary documentation (proof of income, driver’s license, checkbook for a deposit, etc.), and—most importantly—be flexible. There may be features you won’t budge on (proximity to the beach, say), but keep those to a minimum and you’ll have an easier go of it.

Apartment living in SD comes in three forms: your larger, clean and contemporary buildings (expect efficiency but not personality), your smallish, mom-n-pop complexes (think The Big Lebowski), and the classic California cottage (tiny and moldy, but perfect for the Kerouac in all of us). A subcategory might be the “resort-style” or “gated” complex, but these are mainly gobbled up by the retired vacation home demographic in SD.

Seasonal economic shifts in SD means lots of complexes offer month-to-month leasing options. This is fabulous news for you, dear renter! But there are heaps of other details you’ll need to be privy to. For instance, in most cases, the deposit required depends on your credit report (yes, credit reports are inevitable). An average Joe with good credit typically puts $500 down on an apartment in America’s Finest City; if you’re nervous about credit, don’t turn tail yet—you just may have to pay a higher deposit. Finally, most leases have utilities included (sans gas and electric) and accept pets (either with a flat pet deposit—say, $300—or monthly pet rent, such as $40/month).

Popular Types of Apartments in San Diego

Cottages ($$$$) are the most expensive and deal mainly in the quaintness department. The floor plans are almost exclusively 1BR/1BA, and you’ll have to elbow out the vacation rental crowd to secure a permanent spot in these babies, but it’s well worth it.

Important perks large complexes ($$$) boast are garage parking and a recreational pool that isn't filled with water from old dog bowls. They also offer sundry floor plans: studio, 1BR/1BA, 2BR/1BA, 2BR/2BA, and so on. Typically built in the 90s and 2000s, such behemoths are found nearest large shopping complexes and commercial strips—busy places, in other words. That thick concrete will keep the noise down to a minimum, but you should love the action if you choose to live here.

The motel-like mom-n-pop joints ($$) consist of mainly budget 1BR/1BA and 2BR/1BA options—but don’t overlook them. On the off chance the owners have actually renovated the place since the 80s, you can find a pretty rockin’ unit for half the price of the flashy alternative. Plus, you’re more likely to get not only a bed, but also a community (and sometimes, a commune…) out of these arrangements! If you're after an inexpensive apartment in San Diego, start here.

Average Rent in San Diego

The following rent averages come from current listings on our website. Rent prices listed are averages and may not reflect the cost of specific units. Rental prices can vary depending on factors like size, location, amenities, and availability.

How Much Is Rent for a Studio Apartment in San Diego?

On average, expect to pay around $2,545 per month for a studio apartment in San Diego.

How Much Is Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in San Diego?

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in San Diego is approximately $3,106 per month.

How Much Is Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment in San Diego?

In San Diego, a 2-bedroom apartment typically rents for around $3,926 per month.

How Much Is Rent for a 3-Bedroom Apartment in San Diego?

A 3-bedroom apartment in San Diego will cost, on average, $4,754 per month.

Transportation in San Diego

San Diego residents have a few popular choices when it comes to getting around the city, and the best option often depends on the trip and personal preferences:

MTS: The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates a network of buses and trolleys that cover a large portion of the city. It's a convenient and affordable option, especially for commuting to and from work. The PRONTO card system allows for easy fare payment and transfers.
COASTER: The North County Transit District (NCTD) operates the COASTER commuter trains, which connect downtown San Diego with coastal towns to the north. This is a great option for residents who live along the coast or want a scenic ride.
Car: While public transportation is good, many San Diegans still rely on cars for the ultimate flexibility. Traffic congestion can be a concern, though.
Ridesharing: Lyft and Uber are popular choices for on-demand rides, particularly for evening outings or trips that aren't well-served by public transportation.
Biking and Walking: San Diego's weather makes biking and walking year-round possibilities. The city has invested in bike lanes and pedestrian walkways, making these attractive options for shorter trips.

Pet-Friendly Apartment Hunting in San Diego

San Diego doesn't have any city-wide restrictions on pets, so renting with a furry friend is up to the discretion of landlords. Here are some restrictions you might run into:

Weight & breed restrictions: While dogs are popular even in the busiest parts of the city, be aware that many buildings (especially high-rises) have weight or breed limits for pets, often stricter than other locations.
Building size and amenities: Larger buildings and those with dedicated pet amenities like dog runs are more likely to be pet-friendly.

The good news? Major rental listing websites like Apartment List allow filtering by pet-friendliness. Simply select “Dog-Friendly” or “Cat-Friendly” in your preferences when you start your search.

FAQs about Living in San Diego

Still have questions about renting in San Diego? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions from people who are moving to the city for the first time:

Is San Diego expensive to rent in?

At a median rate of $1,954 for a one-bedroom, San Diego is an expensive city for renters. Using a budgeting rule that says rent should not be more than 30% of your income, we estimate you would need to earn around $90,000 a year to comfortably afford a one-bedroom in the city.

How much do you need to make to rent an apartment in San Diego?

Most landlords require that you earn 2.5x your rent in income. That means you would need to earn at least $4,885 a month, or just under $59,000 a year, to be approved for a one-bedroom at San Diego's current median rate of $1,954.

Is rent cheaper in LA or San Diego?

As of April 2024, San Diego's overall median rent was slightly higher than LA at $2,293 (SD) compared to $2,083 (LA). Rent prices in LA have also fallen by 3.4% while they've only fallen 2.5% in San Diego over the previous year.

San Diego Neighborhoods

Picking a neighborhood in SD is like participating in an NFL draft. Weigh your options: if you use that early-round selection, make sure it’s for something that can deliver. Alternatively, hold out for something still available in a later round—something less flashy, but nevertheless team-oriented and solid beneath the surface.

Downtown San Diego

This is your star wide receiver. He’s consistently a first-round pick. He’ll make some beautiful catches—but he’s fragile, high-maintenance, and pricey. We reckon you’ll be hard-pressed (and that doesn’t have to do with wine… or olives) to find a studio in the Gaslamp District for less than $2000/month.

Hillcrest

The market hits the national average in this area. Think of Hillcrest as the first-string center. He’s well built. He’s got the quarterback’s back if poop hits the fan. But no one notices him until the dog pile clears. If you can manage being more than fifteen blocks from the water, consider a 1BR for $850/month or a 2BR for $1250/month overlooking Balboa Park.

Point Loma

A running back is your most diverse player in football; quick to adapt to new circumstances, he can ensure success—but he takes a serious beating along the way. That’s Point Loma. From the yachts of Harbor Island to the strip of Midway, this place has extremities in spades. Dig diversity? Move here. 1BR/1BAs start at $1000/month, 2BR/1BAs at $1500/month. Oh, and you’d better board that Pomeranian.

Mission Bay/Pacific Beach

Every team has its special element. The fireworks component, let’s call it. In football, that means the kicker. These guys send up that gorgeous arc to score the final meager—but crucial!— field goal. You get the analogy, right? Mission Bay and Pacific Beach bring the funky boardwalk culture to SD. It’s not necessarily an all-the-time kinda sector (well, unless you’re a street mime), but it would be sweet to say you live two blocks from Shamu. Studios can be found for under $1000/month, but you’re more likely to see 1BR/1BA condos ($1400/month) and 2 and 3BR beach houses ($1800/month and $2100/month, respectively).

Old Town

Aha! Finally. The quarterback. Where all (offensive) plays begin and end. Old Town claims SDSU, Qualcomm Stadium, major shopping complexes, and historic architecture. Downtown has glitz; Old Town has all-around charm. The lack of oceanfront real estate makes this central sector of town a bit less expensive: expect studios and 1BRs for under $1000/month and 2BR/1BAs for around $1500/month.

La Jolla

Yeah, yeah—we know we gots to say something about La Jolla, but what? Hmm, let’s see. There’s some beaches there? UCSD? What do you want, people? La Jolla is your second-string kicker, alright?! More of the same funky beach stuff. (But without Shamu; drat!) The market’s gutted here because everyone and their mom think LJ is synonymous with SD. The students help, though: one can find some decent 1BR condos around the university for under $1000/month, but head toward the water and you’ll easily double that.

Got your pick? Terrific. Now pick garage parking or street. Then upstairs or ground level. Then full bath or 1 1/2. Keep going and you’ll have your fantasy league in no time. Just remember to bring your sunscreen. Congratulations, Herr Captain!

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Sofi Westview

iL Palazzo

Griffis East Village

Cielo

Gables Point Loma

Surfcaster

800 Broadway

The Hub

Bradbury at The Society

The Margo

Hilltop Terrace

3167 Market Street

Ocean Air

Winslow

AVA Pacific Beach

Strata

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)

San Diego, CA Rental Market Trends

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

San Diego Renter Confidence Survey

Living in San Diego, CA

San Diego Apartment Renter's Guide

San Diego Apartment Renter's Guide

Keywords

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

Sofi Westview

iL Palazzo

Griffis East Village

Cielo

Gables Point Loma

Surfcaster

800 Broadway

The Hub

Bradbury at The Society

The Margo

Hilltop Terrace

3167 Market Street

Ocean Air

Winslow

AVA Pacific Beach

Strata

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?

San Diego, CA Rental Market Trends

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

San Diego Rent Report: December 2025

San Diego Renter Confidence Survey

Living in San Diego, CA

San Diego Apartment Renter's Guide

San Diego Apartment Renter's Guide

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