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.

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How many bedrooms do you need?

Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

1,181 rentals available

5.0
Diega
702 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
(216) 677-6883
$2,580+ moTotal price15-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
38 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Sophisticated Living
Sophisticated high-rise living in downtown San Diego
Diega offers a truly sophisticated living experience in San Diego's downtown core. This high-rise provides residents with curated interiors and rooftop retreats. With stunning city views, unrivaled amenities, and easy access to restaurants and entertainment, it's an exceptional choice.
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Jefferson at Carmel Mountain
11832 Stoney Peak Drive, San Diego, CA 92128
(619) 202-8258
$2,721+ moTotal price12-mo lease
13 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Pet Paradise
Comfy living with easy shopping and dining access.
Jefferson at Carmel Mountain boasts spacious, well-designed apartments that appeal to residents, featuring large kitchens and walk-in closets. Ideal for pet lovers, both cats and dogs are welcome, with plenty of nearby green spaces and dog parks. The location offers the convenience of being within walking distance to shopping centers, grocery stores, and dining options, enhancing everyday living.
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Modernaire
$1,825
2420 Cardinal Dr, San Diego, CA 92123
(858) 923-5187
Rent Savings
20 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Parking, Stainless steel + more
Amenity-Rich Retreat
Luxury and tranquility in San Diego's Birdland.
Modernaire offers an upscale living experience in San Diego's serene Birdland neighborhood. Residents enjoy a host of amenities, including pools, a 24-hour gym, and inviting outdoor spaces for relaxation. The property is both cat and dog-friendly, making it perfect for pet lovers.
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The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos
$2,223
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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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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iL Palazzo
$2,393
2040 Columbia Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 202-8631
Rent Savings
9 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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5.0
Torrey Gardens
$3,045
10615 Calle Mar De Mariposa, San Diego, CA 92130
(619) 536-0848
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Amazing experience and would like to extend the contract. The staff are nice and very helpful.”
10 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Coastal Convenience
Prime location with top schools and beach access.
Torrey Gardens offers an unbeatable location near San Diego's beautiful beaches, renowned shopping centers, and excellent schools. The property boasts comprehensive amenities like a resort-style pool and fully equipped fitness center. Residents enjoy modern living spaces with features like in-unit laundry and stainless steel appliances.
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Concert Towers
$1,275
955 Eleventh Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
(256) 293-5780
Rent Savings
255 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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Pacific Gardens at Genesee
$2,295
8148 Genesee Ave, San Diego, CA 92122
(858) 365-8895
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Pet Haven
A serene retreat near La Jolla Shores
Pacific Gardens at Genesee offers a serene retreat in San Diego's bustling University City. Situated near La Jolla Shores and UCSD, it provides effortless access for commuters. Residents love the chic in-unit amenities and beautiful outdoor spaces, enjoying both the comforts of home and proximity to local highlights.
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5.0
Vora Mission Valley
$2,211
4440 Twain Avenue, San Diego, CA 92120
(614) 758-3506
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
66 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed • 3 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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5.0
K1
330 13th Street, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 597-1598
$2,133+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Amazing apartment with amazing staff”
13 units available
Studio • 1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Luxury Living
Downtown's resort-style oasis with unbeatable amenities.
Experience the epitome of luxury living at K1, nestled in vibrant Downtown San Diego. With a prime location near Petco Park and the Gaslamp District, entertainment and dining are always at your fingertips. Residents rave about the resort-style amenities, especially the saltwater pool and 24-hour gym, and appreciate the pet-friendly atmosphere that welcomes both dogs and cats.
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Bradbury at The Society
$2,718
610 Del Sol Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 251-6811
Rent Savings
10 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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Entrada Apartments
453 13th St, San Diego, CA 92101
(928) 235-9340
$2,000 moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
9 units available
Studio
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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Deerwood
$2,470
15640 Bernardo Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92127
(858) 386-4073
Rent Savings
16 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Cable included + more
Amenities Abound
Spacious living in serene Rancho Bernardo
Nestled in the peaceful Rancho Bernardo area, Deerwood Apartments offer a serene escape with easy access to amenities. Residents rave about the well-kept grounds, quick maintenance, and friendly management team. With spacious kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and large dogs happily accommodated, this pet-friendly community creates an inviting home.
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Idea1 Apartments
$2,155
899 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 304-5158
15 units available
Studio • 1 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Google fiber, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Prime Location
East Village luxury and convenience in San Diego.
Discover unmatched convenience at Idea1 Apartments, located in San Diego's vibrant East Village. With luxury amenities and over 150 entertainment options just steps away, your urban lifestyle is perfectly supported. Residents love the modern layouts and exceptional rooftop spa with stunning city views.
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The Casas
10802-B Camino Ruiz, San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 212-0126
$2,191+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
22 units available
1 bed • 2 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Convenient Location
Vibrant Community Near Mira Mesa Highlights
The Casas in San Diego offers an exceptional living experience with its proximity to fine dining, shopping, and entertainment in the lively Mira Mesa area. With both dogs and cats allowed, these spacious, newly renovated apartments feature modern amenities like stainless steel appliances and a 24hr gym. Residents love the safety and friendly atmosphere of the neighborhood, complemented by excellent customer service provided by the staff.
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The average rent for a 1 bedroom apartment in San Diego is $3,065+, while the average rent for a 2 bedroom apartment is $3,802+. Rent rates updated 8 days ago

Studio: $2,610+Trending up
1 Bed: $3,065+Trending up
2 Beds: $3,802+Trending up
3+ Beds: $4,789+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 120 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 120 listings
La Jolla
View 63 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 63 listings
Point Loma Heights
View 27 listings
What it’s like to live in Point Loma Heights
Perched above the bay, Point Loma Heights delivers panoramic views from downtown to Mexico on clear days. This established neighborhood offers a mix of mid-century apartments and bungalows with character absent in downtown's glass towers. Unlike Mission Beach or Pacific Beach, you'll find streets quiet enough for actual sleep and parking that doesn't require military strategy. Many units feature unexpectedly large patios perfect for morning coffee with bay views or sunset happy hours watching sailboats return to harbor. The microclimate stays 5-10 degrees cooler than inland neighborhoods during summer heat waves. When seeking outdoor recreation, Sunset Cliffs provides dramatic ocean vistas without tourist crowds, while Liberty Station's expansive lawns and renovated naval buildings offer weekend farmers markets and boutique shopping minutes away.
Great for
Affluent Families
Luxury Renters
Professionals
Retirees
Neighborhood vibe
Scenic
Established
Residential
View 27 listings

Neighborhoods

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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

Diega

Jefferson at Carmel Mountain

Modernaire

The Hills at Rancho Penasquitos

Dylan Point Loma

iL Palazzo

Torrey Gardens

Concert Towers

Pacific Gardens at Genesee

Vora Mission Valley

K1

Bradbury at The Society

Entrada Apartments

Deerwood

Idea1 Apartments

The Casas

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 Heights

What it’s like to live in Point Loma Heights

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?