How much is rent in San Marcos?

In San Marcos, the average rent is + for a studio, $2,435+ for a 1-bedroom, $3,007+ for a 2-bedroom, and $3,609+ for a 3-bedroom.* *Based on base prices that don’t include fees

How can I find a pet-friendly apartment in San Marcos?

You can use the pet-friendly filter to find San Marcos apartments that allow pets.

How much should I pay for rent in San Marcos?

The answer to this question depends on your household income and a couple of other factors. You can use our Rent Calculator to figure out how much you should spend on rent in San Marcos.

How can I find off-campus housing in San Marcos?

You can use the off-campus housing filters to find apartments near colleges located in or around San Marcos. Some of the colleges and universities in the area include San Diego State University , San Diego City College , Cuyamaca College , Moreno Valley College , University of California-Irvine , and Concordia University-Irvine .

Start your San Marcos search

How many bedrooms do you need?

Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA

37 rentals available

Elan Northwoods
$2,199
420 Smilax Road, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 313-3483
17 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
On-site laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Spacious Elegance
Timeless elegance meets modern comfort and convenience.
Elan Northwoods shines with its spacious floor plans and modern upgrades, ensuring residents enjoy a luxury lifestyle. Ideal for pet lovers, the community offers exclusive pet amenities and scenic trails nearby. Perfectly positioned in San Marcos, it provides easy access to shopping, dining, and major freeways, blending comfort with convenience seamlessly.
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Barham Villas
$2,204
570 East Barham Drive, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 691-5078
12 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance + more
Pet Paradise
Top-favorited apartments with comprehensive amenities.
Barham Villas in San Marcos offers a standout living experience within a community praised for its friendly management and peaceful atmosphere. With comprehensive amenities like a swimming pool, gym, and outdoor recreational areas, this pet-friendly haven ensures comfort. The location adds convenience with easy freeway access and nearby shopping centers.
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5.0
eaves San Marcos
$2,763
823 Nordahl Road, San Marcos, CA 92069
(661) 228-6019
Rent Savings
Top rated for Location
“Gym equipment is old but works. However, should be updated since it’s used a lot. They’ve been doing construction for too long now and it’s an eye sore.”
4 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, 24hr maintenance, Garage + more
Convenient Location
Convenient and vibrant San Marcos living
Eaves San Marcos offers a vibrant lifestyle with perfect proximity to shopping, dining, and major transportation routes. Residents enjoy premium features like updated kitchens and modern baths, along with great amenities such as a pool, gym, and recreational courts. With both cats and dogs allowed, this community promises flexible living options.
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Palomar Station
1257 Armorlite Drive, San Marcos, CA 92069
(760) 227-7189
$2,451+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
31 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Resort Living
Modern design with resort amenities in San Marcos.
Discover Palomar Station's stunning apartments in San Marcos, where resort-like amenities meet modern design. Residents love the convenient location near shops, schools, and parks. With both dogs and cats welcome, this vibrant community offers a perfect blend of convenience and comfort.
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San Marcos city guide
Everything you need to know
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Best market deals
These units are the best deal in town.
Elan Northwoods Aucpax
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 750 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
Barham Villas 103
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 660 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
222 North City Studio, 1 Bath, $2325
Studio • 1 Bath • 447 sqft
Total monthly rent
$2,334
Available
Now
Viewpoint Luxury Apartments 855 Unit 233
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 716 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Mar 10
Palomar Station 21-205
1 Bed • 1 Bath • 688 sqft
Total monthly rent
$2,456
Available
Now
5.0
Viewpoint Luxury Apartments
$2,425
863 VIEWPOINT DR, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 280-9434
Top rated for Location
“It is well run, clean, quiet.”
4 units available
1 bed • 2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Nest technology, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher + more
Luxurious Living
Upscale, pet-friendly apartments between CSU San Marcos and Palomar College.
Viewpoint Luxury Apartments offers a pet-friendly, upscale lifestyle. With beautifully renovated units, residents enjoy premium upgrades like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Conveniently located near CSU San Marcos and Palomar College, you'll also have access to entertainment, dining, and shopping. Residents love the friendly atmosphere and well-maintained amenities, including a heated pool and vibrant community spaces.
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Anden
152 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
(760) 891-4091
$3,372+ moTotal price12-mo lease
Rent Savings
7 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Luxurious Living
Spacious homes with excellent amenities and friendly community.
Anden offers beautifully designed townhomes in San Marcos, CA with floor plans ranging from 1,235 to 1,486 square feet. Residents love the welcoming community and enjoy modern amenities including a swimming pool, spa, and fire pit. The staff is praised for their outstanding service, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
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Whispering Oaks
468 North Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos, CA 92069
(760) 991-3133
$2,699+ moTotal price12-mo lease
2 units available
2 bed • 3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly + more
Convenient Living
Central location near colleges and shopping
Whispering Oaks provides a central location that ensures you're close to CSUSM, Palomar College, and an array of shopping and dining options, making daily errands extremely convenient. The property is pet friendly, welcoming both cats and dogs, and offers a variety of modern amenities, including a gym, pool, and hot tub. With spacious apartments featuring contemporary upgrades and exceptional management, residents enjoy a vibrant community and quick responses from the maintenance team.
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Beautiful San Elijo HIlls Home!
$5,000
801 Luminara Way, San Marcos, CA 92078
(858) 598-1111
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Beautiful 3 Bedroom townhome in San Marcos!
$3,550
805 Almond Road, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 407-3694
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Hardwood floors, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage + more
Recently updated units
3 Bedroom Townhome in gated Corte Bella community!!
$3,195
588 Almond Road, San Marcos, CA 92078
(949) 397-2422
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, Garage, Recently renovated + more
Recently updated units
Luxury apartments
Top units for an elevated lifestyle.
414 Caliper Wy N/a
3 Beds • 2.5 Baths • 1544 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
Amazing new home in San Marcos' best new district! 4 Beds, 4 Baths, $5450
4 Beds • 4 Baths • 2573 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
513 Proton Place 4 Bed
4 Beds • 4 Baths • 2558 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
Beautiful San Elijo HIlls Home! 4 Beds, 3 Baths, $5000
4 Beds • 3 Baths • 2478 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
LIVE IN A NEW HOME! 3 Beds, 2.5 Baths, $4999
3 Beds • 2.5 Baths • 1915 sqft
Total monthly rent
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Available
Now
3 bed 3 bath by Cal Sate!
$3,295
441 Almond Road, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 331-3561
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Garage, Walk in closets, Gym, Pool + more
Recently updated units
414 Caliper Wy
$5,500
414 Caliper Way, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 445-9284
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction, Garage + more
Recently updated units
1540 Grandon Ave
$3,320
1540 Grandon Avenue, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 749-0313
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Dishwasher, Garage, Gym, Pool + more
Recently updated units
214 Woodland Pkwy unit: 201
$2,700
214 Woodland Parkway, San Marcos, CA 92069
(858) 457-9400
1 unit available
2 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Granite counters, Dishwasher, Dogs allowed, Parking + more
Recently updated units
Modern 3BD/3BA in San Marcos
$3,650
511 Spindle Way, San Marcos, CA 92078
(858) 207-4595
1 unit available
3 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Dishwasher, Pet friendly, New construction, Garage, Air conditioning + more
Recently updated units
513 Proton Place
$5,150
513 Proton Place, San Marcos, CA 92078
(760) 263-4735
1 unit available
4 bed
Amenities
In unit laundry, Patio / balcony, Garage, Stainless steel, Walk in closets, Gym + more
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Top neighborhoods in San Marcos

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1 Bedroom Apartments in San Marcos (4)

Amenities

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San Marcos Short-term Apartments (4)

Find an apartment for rent in San Marcos, CA

Searching for an apartment for rent in San Marcos, CA? Look no further! Apartment List will help you find a perfect apartment near you. There are 37 available rental units listed on Apartment List in San Marcos. Click on listings to see photos, floorplans, amenities, prices and availability, and much more!

The average rent in San Marcos is Ask for a studio, $2,435 for a one-bedroom apartment, and $3,007 for a two-bedroom apartment. If you are looking for a deal, keep an eye out for a red pulsing icon that indicates rent specials.

Tired of browsing? Take our personalized quiz. You’ll answer a couple of simple questions and we’ll put together a list of San Marcos apartments that are best for you. We’ll also factor in your commute, budget, and preferred amenities. Looking for a pet-friendly rental, or an apartment with in-unit washer and dryer? No problem, we’ll provide you with apartments that match that criteria.

You can trust Apartment List to help you find your next San Marcos, CA apartment rental! After all, everyone deserves a home they love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Greetings, one and all, and welcome to your San Marcos, California apartment hunting headquarters! Situated in north San Diego County between Escondido and Oceanside and boasting a moderate year-round climate that makes the rest of the Golden State green with envy, San Marcos is undoubtedly one of SoCal’s most attractive communities. Sound like a good fit for you? Then stick with us, ladies and gents, hombres and chicas, because an apartment with your name on it (well, an apartment that’s soon to have your name on it) is a hop, skip, jump, and click or two away …

A Feast of Plenty

Only one in three residents in San Marcos rents rather than owns, but that doesn’t mean apartments are difficult to come by. The city’s population has spiked nearly 50 percent in the past decade and plenty of new apartments, lofts, and condos have been erected to keep pace. You’ll find that your options are plentiful. Waiting lists are rare and move-in specials do pop up, so scour the market thoroughly to make sure you get the best bang for your buck and pow for your dinero.

Get Out!

If you’re the hermitic type who doesn’t like to venture outside the comfort of your humble abode unless absolutely necessary, we hate to tell you that you’ll be missing out on the best of San Marcos. The city is dotted with parks, hiking and biking trails, and golf courses that can be enjoyed year-round; a 15-minute drive can put you on the majestic Pacific shoreline, while San Diego’s numerous outdoors attractions are only a 30-minute trek away. The city also features monthly concerts in Woodland Park from May through September, several annual festivals and celebrations, and tons of wildlife-viewing hotspots.

Night owls, meanwhile, aren’t likely to be disappointed by the various live music venues, vino bars, and sports pubs that keep things hopping after the sun’s gone down. But whether you prefer to get your kicks under the sun or moon, be sure to bring a hearty appetite along, as the city’s well-known Old California Restaurant Row features quality cuisines from all over the globe that are sure to keep your taste buds watering.

Getting Around

The best way to bum around San Marcos is obviously via your own set of wheels, but foot soldiers will be glad to know the city is served by an above average bus system with an above average name (there are certainly worse things in the world than riding the “Breeze” to work each morning). The Sprinter light rail, which runs from Oceanside to Escondido, stops in San Marcos as well and is a viable option for commuters living in one of the apartment complexes situated nearby.

Tips for Apartment Scavengers

A few quick things to keep in mind before signing your John Hancock on the dotted line of an apartment lease:

Most leases in San Marcos are good for a full year, although a limited number of properties offer short-term and month-to-month leases as well (usually at a slightly steeper price). Nearly all landlords charge an initial security/good faith deposit (which is often refundable if you keep your digs in tip-top shape) and some charge additional (dare we say “mystery?”) move-in fees.

It’s typical for landlords to run a credit and background check on tenants before extending a leasing offer to make sure they don’t have a history of being deadbeat renters. Obviously, if you’re credit/renter’s history is questionable or nonexistent you’ll likely need a co-signer to score your dream dwellings in San Marcos.

Some larger complexes use showrooms/prototype apartments when showing off their property, but if at all possible, ask to see the actual unit you’ll be renting. Sometimes this isn’t an option (especially if the previous tenants haven’t moved out or the apartment hasn’t been properly cleaned or fixed up yet), but it’s worth a shot. Either way, when it’s time to fill out your move-in checklist, mark down even the most seemingly insignificant and minor blemishes and give your new place a thorough inspection to make sure everything is up to par as promised.

And now for the fun part: scouring paradise for the lodgings of your lives! Welcome to North County, bienvenido a San Marcos, and happy hunting!

Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA

Elan Northwoods

Barham Villas

eaves San Marcos

Palomar Station

Viewpoint Luxury Apartments

Anden

Whispering Oaks

Beautiful San Elijo HIlls Home!

Beautiful 3 Bedroom townhome in San Marcos!

3 Bedroom Townhome in gated Corte Bella community!!

3 bed 3 bath by Cal Sate!

414 Caliper Wy

1540 Grandon Ave

214 Woodland Pkwy unit: 201

Modern 3BD/3BA in San Marcos

513 Proton Place

Top neighborhoods in San Marcos

More Rental Options

Find an apartment for rent in San Marcos, CA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Living in San Marcos, CA

San Marcos Apartment Renter's Guide

San Marcos Apartment Renter's Guide

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