26 Cities Near San Diego, CA to Live in 2025

While San Diego charms both visitors and locals with its perfect weather and coastal attractions, the surrounding communities offer their own slice of Southern California paradise. Whether you're looking for seaside views, mountain vistas, or desert landscapes, these 26 cities near San Diego provide unique living experiences while keeping you close to all the amenities of California's second-largest city.

In this guide, we'll explore all you need to know about the diverse communities that make up Greater San Diego and help you find your ideal Southern California home!

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from walkscore.com and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

Cities Near San Diego

1. Chula Vista

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,717
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,246
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 9.7 miles (all distances from Google Maps)
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 16 minutes
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour via Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 48 minutes via E. Harbor Drive
• Population: 275,487
• Median household income: $105,173
• Walk score: 46
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: 41
• Map of Chula Vista

Nestled a quarter-hour away from the heart of San Diego is Chula Vista. This unique little neighborhood is one of the best cities to live in Southern California, conveniently situated along I-5.

On the city’s eastern side, you can find the Otay Open Space Preserve and Mountain Hawk Park. However, if you’re looking for family-friendly fun, check out the Living Coast Discovery Center.

Want to learn more? Check out these 12 fun things to do in Chula Vista from City Travel Review:

2. La Mesa

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,838
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,203
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 10 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 17 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 45 minutes via Orange Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 54 minutes via University Avenue
• Population: 61,121
• Median household income: $84,337
• Walk score: 60
• Transit score: 42
• Bike score: 35
• Map of La Mesa

La Mesa, known as the Jewel of the Hills, is one of the best San Diego cities in which to settle down. It’s situated approximately 17 minutes east of San Diego amid rolling hills.

However, don't let its tranquility fool you. La Mesa is a dynamic city brimming with unique amenities, such as Mission Trails Regional Park for hiking and horseback riding and the Grossmont Center for shopping and dining.

3. Lemon Grove

• Starting rent for an apartment in Lemon Grove: $2,100
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 9 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 12 minutes
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 46 minutes via Orange Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 53 minutes via Market Street
• Population: 27,627
• Median household income: $79,278
• Walk score: 52
• Transit score: 39
• Bike score: 34
• Map of Lemon Grove

Lemon Grove is another city in San Diego’s East County, situated merely nine miles from the city center. From the moment you step foot into the town, you’ll be greeted by a grand lemon statue, paying homage to the farmers that built it.

However, what truly sets Lemon Grove apart from the other suburbs of San Diego is its distinctive culinary scene, and it prides itself on its array of local restaurants.

4. Escondido

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,760
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,163
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 30.1 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 34 minutes via I-15 S. and CA-163 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 12 minutes via bus No. 235
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 3 hours and 11 minutes via Pomerado Road
• Population: 151,038
• Median household income: $84,477
• Walk score: 45
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: 40
• Map of Escondido

Escondido lies just over 30 minutes from San Diego, though it stands on its own with a plethora of exceptional amenities.

From larger estates to cozy single-family homes, these San Diego suburbs host plenty of rentals. The downtown area is a bustling hub, perfect for dining and shopping.

Of course, adventure always awaits at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which is just a short 12-minute drive away.

5. Spring Valley

• Starting rent for an apartment in Spring Valley: $1,750
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 11.9 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 15 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 17 minutes via bus No. 851 and Orange Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 5 minutes via Market Street
• Population: 30,998
• Median household income: $104,888
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: 28
• Bike score: 23
• Map of Spring Valley

Another city near San Diego, Spring Valley derives its name from a charming natural spring located at the heart of the town. The area has steadily gained prominence among nearby cities as a hub for local distilleries, though the city is also home to various shopping centers, restaurants, and nearby recreational facilities to explore on your free time.

6. El Cajon

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,397
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,712
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 16.1 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 22 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 23 minutes via Orange Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 27 minutes via El Cajon Boulevard
• Population: 106,215
• Median household income: $66,478
• Walk score: 61
• Transit score: 37
• Bike score: 45
• Map of El Cajon

El Cajon sits just east of San Diego, surrounded by the stunning hills and mountains of East County and other nearby towns. The city has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the years, blending well-preserved historical landmarks with modern developments. You can now find numerous new restaurants and stores in the area.

7. Del Mar

• Starting rent for an apartment in Del Mar: $3,750
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 20 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 30 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 33 minutes bus No. 101 and Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 53 minutes via N. Torrey Pines Road
• Population: 3,956
• Median household income: $185,335
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: 19
• Bike score: 28
• Map of Del Mar

Del Mar is one of the finest cities close to San Diego, just 30 minutes outside of the city center. The town offers a plethora of parks and beaches, such as the iconic San Dieguito River Lagoon and Torrey Pines State National Preserve.

Food enthusiasts love Del Mar, too, as there is a diverse array of restaurants scattered throughout the city, including the Poseidon Restaurant, a highly rated seafood eatery.

8. Carlsbad

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,864
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,208
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 34.8 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 40 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour via Coaster Line and Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 3 hours and 10 minutes via Carlsbad Boulevard
• Population: 114,746
• Median household income: $139,326
• Walk score: 31
• Transit score: 23
• Bike score: 29
• Map of Carlsbad

If you want a bit more room to spread out but still want that coastal suburban feel of towns near San Diego, Carlsbad is a worthy consideration. In vibrant downtown Carlsbad, you’ll find an array of bars, shops, and restaurants within walking distance of the beach.

The primary drawback, as with any location in North County, is the commute into downtown San Diego. Luckily, public transit runs between the cities.

9. San Marcos

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,592
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,956
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 35 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 35 minutes via I-15 S. and CA 163 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 40 minutes via bus Nos. 305 and 235
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 3 hours and 36 minutes via S. Rancho Santa Fe Road
• Population: 94,833
• Median household income: $105,286
• Walk score: 33
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of San Marcos

San Marcos is one of the most popular cities around San Diego, just east of Carlsbad in North County. You’ll find a wide array of restaurants, shops, and living spaces in the downtown area. This town is also home to Palomar College, hosting numerous college students looking to gain a solid education.

Nature enthusiasts can venture further east to enjoy Alga Norte Community Park and Woodland Park, and with its strategic location, it offers convenient access to multiple airports and highways.

10. Poway

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,630
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,252
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 22.6 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 26 minutes via I-15 S. and CA-163 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 59 minutes via bus Nos. 945 and 235
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 2 hours and 14 minutes via Pomerado Road
• Population: 48,841
• Median household income: $143,825
• Walk score: 30
• Transit score: 31
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Poway

About 20 minutes north of San Diego lies Poway, a city known for its breathtaking mountain views and rolling hills.

Nature lovers can enjoy Starridge Neighborhood Park, Aubrey Park, and, of course, picturesque Lake Poway. In the downtown area, you’ll find a selection of charming restaurants and shops, including the must-visit Bernardo Winery. If serenity is what you’re looking for, Poway is one of the best cities near San Diego, California, for you.

11. Oceanside

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,936
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,407
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 38.6 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 35 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 59 minutes via Pacific Surfliner Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 3 hours and 26 minutes via Carlsbad Boulevard
• Population: 174,068
• Median household income: $93,724
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: 33
• Bike score: 33
• Map of Oceanside

If you’re looking for a wildly affordable beach town near San Diego, look no further than Oceanside. It’s one of the most affordable cities near San Diego.

Over the past decade, the downtown area has blossomed with small local businesses, breweries, restaurants, and more. Beyond that, you’ll find famous tourist attractions, such as Mission San Luis Rey and the iconic Oceanside Pier. While southbound traffic during workdays can be a drag, the city offers easy access to the Coaster commuter railway.

12. Vista

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,060
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,308
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 41.7 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 41 minutes via I-15 S. and CA-163 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 54 minutes via Sprinter Line and bus No. 235
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 3 hours and 49 minutes via N. Torrey Pines Road
• Population: 98,381
• Median household income: $91,854
• Walk score: 46
• Transit score: 33
• Bike score: 30
• Map of Vista

Vista is another one of our favorite cities in North County, San Diego, conveniently located inland of Oceanside and Carlsbad. Vista is one of the relatively affordable small towns near San Diego proper, though you’ll still find plenty of locally owned shops and breweries in the community-oriented downtown area.

13. Encinitas

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,309
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,646
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 25.5 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 27 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 42 minutes via Coaster Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 2 hours and 23 minutes via N. Torrey Pines Road
• Population: 62,007
• Median household income: $150,471
• Walk score: 43
• Transit score: 35
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Encinitas

As one of the most picturesque cities surrounding San Diego, Encinitas offers incredible views of the water and stunning high cliffs. Here, you’ll find a diverse real estate landscape with several notable neighborhoods, including Olivenhain, Old Encinitas, and Cardiff.

Residents love the San Diego Botanic Garden, which sprawls across 37 acres, and Swami's Beach, which is the ideal spot to sit on a bluff and watch nearby surfers.

14. National City

• Starting rent for an apartment in National City: $1,900
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 6.4 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 11 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 37 minutes via Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 29 minutes via Main Street and E. Harbor Drive
• Population: 56,173
• Median household income: $64,248
• Walk score: 69
• Transit score: 47
• Bike score: 49
• Map of National City

Despite its small size, National City embraces diversity and is one of the most welcoming and inclusive environments in the San Diego area. Enjoy the city on foot or take short drives to nearby attractions, such as the Bonita Museum and the Rice Canyon Trail.

You’re also never far from San Diego Bay, where you’ll find scenic oceanic views and plenty of local shopping opportunities.

15. Coronado

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,524
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $5,121
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 6.3 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 12 minutes via CA-75 N. and I-5 N.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 42 minutes via bus No. 901
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 20 minutes via D Avenue (includes a ferry ride)
• Population: 20,192
• Median household income: $135,056
• Walk score: 54
• Transit score: 32
• Bike score: 73
• Map of Coronado

Coronado lies on the San Diego coast and is renowned for its charming neighborhoods, pristine beaches, and strong community.

Once a popular resort destination during the 19th century, Coronado quickly evolved into an upscale residential community with a thriving real estate market. The city's iconic Hotel del Coronado still attracts visitors from all over the world.

Families love the top-rated schools in the area and the bustling downtown area, as well as various recreational activities like cycling, tennis, and golf. It’s truly one of the best places to live near San Diego.

16. Imperial Beach

• Starting rent for an apartment in Imperial Beach: $1,850
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 14 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 17 minutes via I-5 N.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 53 minutes via bus No. 901
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 1 minute via Bayshore Bikeway (includes a ferry ride)
• Population: 26,137
• Median household income: $79,071
• Walk score: 69
• Transit score: 36
• Bike score: 63
• Map of Imperial Beach

Imperial Beach is part of San Diego’s South Bay region, where you’ll find miles of pristine sandy beaches and a mild Mediterranean climate.

One appealing aspect of Imperial Beach is its proximity to the Mexican border and major employment centers, including downtown San Diego and military bases.

Beyond the sandy shores, Imperial Beach offers a range of recreational opportunities, such as the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve and the iconic Imperial Beach Pier.

17. Santee

• Starting rent for an apartment in Santee: $2,200
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 18.2 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 22 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 30 minutes via Green Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 38 minutes via Lake Murray Boulevard
• Population: 60,037
• Median household income: $105,613
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: 31
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Santee

Santee is a charming little city in East County, San Diego, offering a blend of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. One of the city’s most popular attractions is the Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve, which is great for camping, boating, and fishing.

Beyond the great outdoors, the city has plenty of thriving shopping centers, one of the most popular of which is Santee Trolley Square. Families can also take advantage of the city’s highly regarded schools and enjoy prioritized safety, thanks to the city’s relatively low crime rate.

18. Bonita

• Starting rent for an apartment in Bonita: $1,950
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 11.3 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 17 minutes via I-805 N.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 19 minutes via bus No. 705 and Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 58 minutes via E. Harbor Drive
• Population: 12,917
• Median household income: $117,750
• Walk score: 10
• Transit score: 26
• Bike score: 10
• Map of Bonita

Bonita is a tight-knit community in the scenic South Bay known for its tree-lined streets and tranquil rolling hills. Many residents here spend their weekends fishing at the nearby Sweetwater Reservoir.

Even though many see the city as a peaceful retreat, there’s still plenty of access to restaurants, shops, and markets. As for rental properties, you’ll find everything from charming townhouses and condos to spacious single-family homes, all of which are less expensive than what you’d typically find in the greater area.

19. Bostonia

• Starting rent for an apartment in Bostonia: $2,050
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 17.5 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 23 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 30 minutes via bus No. 848 and Orange Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 39 minutes via El Cajon Boulevard
• Population: 15,379
• Median household income: $73,549
• Walk score: 47
• Transit score: 25
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Bostonia

Bostonia is in the northeastern part of El Cajon and is one of San Diego’s most popular neighborhoods. Throughout the year, residents in this suburb of San Diego enjoy numerous local events and activities.

With proximity to top San Diego destinations, such as the San Diego Zoo and the beaches of La Jolla, you’ll never feel disconnected from all the fun.

20. La Presa

• Starting rent for an apartment in La Presa: $1,400
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 12.8 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 18 minutes via CA-94 W.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transit: 1 hour and 7 minutes via bus No. 162 and Blue Line
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 1 hour and 4 minutes via Market Street
• Population: 35,033
• Median household income: $88,479
• Walk score: 44
• Transit score: 32
• Bike score: 32
• Map of La Presa

La Presa lies just 20 minutes east of San Diego County. Here, you’ll find plenty of great neighborhoods to explore, as well as amenities, from the nearby Spring Valley Shopping Center to bars and eateries like the Bancroft Bar or Mike Curphy Distillery.

As for employment opportunities, many locals work at the Kaiser Permanente medical offices, though there are plenty of other options in various industries.

Long-Commute Cities Near San Diego

Remote work is still very popular, and San Diego is an ideal spot for working from home. You can choose a close enough city to get to San Diego in an hour or two and give yourself more flexibility in your living arrangements and rental price.

If you don't need to commute daily, check out some cities near San Diego with longer commutes. You'll likely find more room, more affordable rents, or both.

21.Santa Ana

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,919
• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,263
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 88.8 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 2 hours and 3 minutes via Pacific Surfliner 564 toward San Diego
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 9 hours and 8 minutes via Basilone Road
• Population: 310,227
• Median household income: $88,354
• Walk score: 67
• Transit score: 43
• Bike score: 62
• Map of Santa Ana

Santa Ana was first explored in 1769 during a Spanish expedition. The diverse community turned Santa Ana into the fourth-densest large city in the United States and the 13th-most populous city in California.

If commuting is necessary, choose an apartment near the I-5 S or the Santa Ana Freeway. You can also get to the John Wayne Airport in minutes if you live on the south side of Santa Ana.

Santa Ana is the finance and government center of Orange County and enjoys a reputation for safety and high quality of life. Street fairs are plentiful, and annual events like Dia De Los Muertos draw crowds for its parade and sugary treats. On the downside, the notorious Santa Ana Winds can wreak havoc if you're sensitive to dry weather.

22. Riverside

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,472
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,768
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 98.8 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 1 hour and 51 minutes via I-215 S. and I-15 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 3 hours and 47 minutes via Metrolink Inland Empire-Orange County Line 811 toward Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo and Greyhound
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 9 hours and 55 minutes via Old Hwy 395
• Population: 614,998
• Median household income: $88,575
• Walk score: 43
• Transit score: 30
• Bike score: 49
• Map of Riverside

Part of the Inland Empire, Riverside is located beside the Santa Ana River and is California's 12th-most populous city. The area was founded in the 1870s and was the birthplace of the state's citrus industry and the country's largest Mission Revival Style building.

Riverside is known for its arts and culture, with the Fox Performing Arts Center, Museum of Riverside, and California Museum of Photography. There's also a Riverside Sports complex for something more active.

College students and staff live in the northeastern part of the city, close to the University of California Riverside. La Sierra University sits on the western edge of the town, with a Metrolink station, museum, and arboretum. Apartment complexes are also plentiful around Riverside, with access to California State Route 91 and I-215.

23. Anaheim

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,950
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,407
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 95.3 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 1 hour and 42 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 2 hours and 15 minutes via Pacific Surfliner 564 toward San Diego
• Commute time to San Diego via Bike: 10 hours via CA-1 S.
• Population: 346,824
• Median household income: $90,583
• Walk score: 56
• Transit score: 34
• Bike score: 52
• Map of Anaheim

Anaheim was founded by 50 German families in 1857 and incorporated in 1876. The area remained predominantly agricultural until Disneyland opened in 1955. Hotels and tourism businesses soon followed.

Anaheim is convenient to both San Diego and Los Angeles, opening up more opportunities for work and recreation. Beyond Disney, the area boasts green space, public teen and sports areas, and tree-lined streets. Anaheim is among the safest cities in the country.

You’ll find Anaheim apartment complexes clustered along I-5 and 91. For access to green space, live on the eastern edge of Anaheim. You'll have quick access to Chino Hills State Park and Limestone Canyon Regional Park.

24. Long Beach

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,545
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,892
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 112.2 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 2 hours and 4 minutes
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 2 hours and 21 minutes via FlixBus toward San Ysidro Bus Terminal
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 10 hours and 3 minutes via CA-1 S.
• Population: 466,742
• Median household income: $83,969
• Walk score: 73
• Transit score: 49
• Bike score: 70
• Map of Long Beach

Long Beach was incorporated in 1897 in the southern part of Los Angeles County and is the second busiest container port in the country.

This beach town is perfect for active lifestyles and outdoor-focused adventures with plenty of parks and 28 miles of coastline. There's always something to do around Long Beach, including hopping a ferry to Catalina Island or visiting the Marina Pacifica Mall for exclusive shopping.

You can get to San Diego pretty quickly while enjoying access to Downtown Los Angeles. Look for Long Beach apartment complexes along Highway Coastal 1 for convenience or near the waterfront for dazzling views.

25. San Bernardino

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,720
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $2,132
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 107.2 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 2 hours via I-215 S. and I-15 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 5 hours and 21 minutes via Metrolink San Bernardino Line 317 toward LA Union Station and Pacific Surfliner 770 toward San Diego
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 10 hours and 43 minutes
• Population: 222,101
• Median household income: $63,988
• Walk score: 45
• Transit score: 31
• Bike score: 44
• Map of San Bernardino

San Bernardino was incorporated in 1854 and named after patron Saint Bernardino of Siena. During its early days, the area was explored by missionaries and a Mormon colony. Once gold and mining opportunities were discovered, the site grew, drawing settlers looking to farm citrus crops and grow vineyards.

College students make their way to San Bernardino for higher learning education opportunities. California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino Valley College, and American Sports University are all located in the city.

Although most of San Bernardino is safe, some neighborhoods are still transitioning and require caution. Many of the apartment complexes in San Bernadino are located along I-215. The city's east side brushes against the San Bernardino National Forest, making it ideal for outdoor lovers. Make sure to check out the area before you sign a lease.

26. Irvine

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,591
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $3,176
• Distance from downtown San Diego: 85.1 miles
• Commute time to San Diego via car: 1 hour and 24 minutes via I-5 S.
• Commute time to San Diego via public transport: 1 hour and 52 minutes via Pacific Surfliner 564 toward San Diego
• Commute time to San Diego via bike: 8 hours and 47 minutes
• Population: 307,670
• Median household income: $129,647
• Walk score: 43
• Transit score: 26
• Bike score: 69
• Map of Irvine

Irvine's roots date to 1769, when a Spanish explorer established the area with forest, missions, and cattle herds. The site was built around housing villages and business developments that were once part of the expansive Irvine Ranch.

Irvine sees over 300 days of sunlight a year with high temperatures around 73-degrees and lows of 52-degrees. The mild climate makes it a popular place for outdoor activities, nearby hiking, and heading out to enjoy the coast. However, Irvine is also laid-back and calm, so if nightlife is calling your name, you'll need to make the drive to San Diego or Los Angeles.

Look for apartments along I-405 and I-5, making commuting easier. Irvine also has a solid bike score of 69 and offers flexibility to bike and walk when living in the center of its amenities.

Looking for an Apartment in California?

There are so many great cities near San Diego where you can enjoy beachside activities, world-class dining, unique arts and cultural scenes, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

If you’re looking to find the perfect San Diego apartment, you’ve come to the right place! Start your search with our quiz. With Apartment List as your guide, you’ll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs about Cities Near San Diego

What city is closest to San Diego?

National City is the closest to San Diego followed by Coronado and Chula Vista, and they all lie within ten miles of the city.

How far is LA and San Diego?

According to Google Maps, the shortest route between Los Angelos and San Diego is 120 miles.

Is Disneyland close to San Diego?

Disneyland is about 95 miles away from San Diego, which is close enough to combine a visit to both areas in one family trip.