Five Most Affordable San Diego Neighborhoods
If you're looking for an affordable neighborhood in San Diego, here are the top five.
There are so many things about San Diego that put a smile on residents’ faces. Enviable year-round warm temperatures, beautiful Pacific Coast beaches, endless entertainment, and more attract renters each year. This coastal city provides opportunities for amazing sea activities, such as whale watching, sailing, and snorkeling. San Diego’s white sand beaches with spacious, lush parks and rugged mountain peaks are great for hiking and biking. Beachside Belmont Park features an old-school wooden roller coaster, vintage games and more. After you’ve moved into your new rental, visit Mission Trails Regional Park, a 7,220 acre natural area with a lake and over 60 miles of trails. The wonders of San Diego go far beyond its enchanting landscapes. This bustling city is home to several historic sites, world-class shopping and dining, and a vibrant nightlife. San Diego is also home to the University of California San Diego campus and Marine base Miramar.
Built in 1868, residents flock to Balboa Park, one of the oldest recreational parks in the United States. This jaw-dropping national historic site houses 17 museums, gardens, and the city’s renowned zoo. Waterside Seaport Village offers stylish shopping, delectable eateries, and more. After hours, you’ll find young professionals and students in the Gaslamp Quarter, a thrilling downtown district known for its nightlife hotspots from dive bars to the renowned Balboa Theater. Plentiful amenities shape San Diego into a haven for renters of every age and lifestyle.
Sunset in San Diego
San Diego Skyline
Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala
Architecture in San Diego
Balboa Park
Hotel del Coronado
As of January 2025, the average apartment rent in San Diego, CA is $1,988 for a studio, $2,341 for one bedroom, $2,928 for two bedrooms, and $3,836 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in San Diego has increased by 1.2% in the past year.
If you're looking for an affordable neighborhood in San Diego, here are the top five.
What's it like to live in sunny San Diego? Here's what you can expect.
Very Walkable
out of 100 WalkScore® Rating
If you enjoy walking, you’ll enjoy renting in this area! It’s a very walkable neighborhood.
Some Transit
out of 100 TransitScore® Rating
You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.
Bikeable
out of 100 BikeScore® Rating
While there’s some bike infrastructure in this area, you’ll still need a car for many errands.
Public
Grades K-5
445 Students
Public
Grades K-3
361 Students
Public
Grades K-5
819 Students
Public
Grades K-5
767 Students
Public
Grades K-5
753 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
1,317 Students
Public
Grades 7-8
919 Students
Public
Grades 7-8
768 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
696 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
1,515 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,531 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,336 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,318 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,257 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
1,984 Students
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