Apartments for Rent in National City, CA (1,394 Rentals)

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Moving to North County San Diego: Costs, Commutes, and Culture

From surf culture to family-friendly neighborhoods, discover the best North County San Diego areas to rent and what they’re like day-to-day.

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The Plaza
Rent Specials
$1,799 - $2,354
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$1,799 - $2,354

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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now

The Plaza

1438-1448 E 8th StNational City, CA 91950
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How I Find the Perfect Rental for My Clients: A Real Estate Pro's Guide

Finding the right apartment starts with three things: location, cost, and amenities. Get the insider perspective from a real estate professional on how to nail all three.

property at 2304 E 14th St

$6,900

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$6,900

Total Monthly Price
$6,900

4 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home for Rent

Available Now

2304 E 14th St

National CityCA91950
property at 721 E 22nd St

$6,900

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$6,900

Total Monthly Price
$6,900

3 Bedroom, 3 Bath Townhome for Rent

Available Now

721 E 22nd St

National CityCA91950
property at 723 E 22nd St

$6,900

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$6,900

Total Monthly Price
$6,900

3 Bedroom, 3 Bath Townhome for Rent

Available Now

723 E 22nd St

National CityCA91950

San Diego's Best Affordable Neighborhoods

Learn about San Diego and the best places to live with original content written by our , Local Expert Hayden Goldberg

property at 2303 E 8th St

$1,850 - $2,295

1 To 2 Bedroom Rentals

Available Now

2303 E 8th St

National CityCA91950

Neighborhood & Market Insights: How to Choose the Right Area to Rent

Master your search for the perfect apartment. Location is everything. Discover how to leverage community insights, public data, and personal visits to make a fully informed decision about where to rent.

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

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National City, CA Local Guide

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A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back

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18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property

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The Student Renter's Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect San Diego Neighborhood to Rent

Learn About the Best Neighborhoods to Rent Near College Campuses in San Diego, CA | Find San Diego Off-Campus Student Housing

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Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary | ApartmentHomeLiving.com Renter University

From the letter A all the way to the letter Z, the Real Estate and Rental Term Glossary from the content team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provides our visitors and shoppers with a little clarity and helpful guidance in navigating the real estate world through definitions and explainers for the top subjects and terms that someone may come across during the leasing, buying, or selling process.

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National City Overview

The second-oldest city in the vicinity of San Diego County, National City is a southern California destination that currently acts as home to well over 50,000 residents. Known as a tourist destination among the scenic shores of the west coast, National City is an excellent city well worth discovering.

What is the history of National City?

Originally a horse grazing region for the Spanish Army, National City was established by a trio of brothers by the name of Kimball who helped usher in such modern technologies at the time as hot, running water. The brothers also helped oversee the construction of added roads and eventually even a rail line through the city, with National City officially incorporating in 1887. Today, visitors and retirees make up much of the local economy via tourism, although the local hospital and schooling system also provides a sound economic base of employment.

How is the weather in National City?

Known for warm, sunny summers and mild winters, those living in National City apartments will enjoy the 'ideal' weather that southern California is known for the world over. Snow is a rarity, although most of the annual rainfall happens from December to March. Fall is generally dry and quite pleasant, marked by jacket weather evening temps and plenty of crisp sea breezes.

How do I get around town?

A majority of locals calling National City apartments home rely on a personal automobile for most transportation needs. although some bus service is available running into San Diego proper. Bicycling and even skateboarding are also popular (this is So Cal after all!), and taxis represent an ideal additional option. San Diego hosts the major airport in the region, offering numerous flights on major carriers every day.

What is the National City commute like?

Interstate 5 runs along the coastline, while I-805 heads north to south along the eastern interior of the city, both acting as primary roadways. Route 54 covers west to east through the venter of town, and most of National City is easily covered on day-to-day travel. Those commuting to San Diego's job market may experience some expected 9-to-5 delays, but generally traffic still moves much brisker than in similar California cities.

What are the local media outlets?

The 'San Diego Tribune' is a major print outlet in the city, with some lesser arts and entertainment-specific periodicals also available. Radio is a compelling blend of classic rock, Tejano, soft hits and hip-hop genres, with National City apartment residents finding a myriad of network broadcasting options at their fingertips thanks to local affiliates for NBC, CBS and the like.

Why live in National City, CA?

When it comes to west coast living, it doesn't get much more 'California' than a rental in National City, seaside views, excellent fish tacos and, you guessed it, plenty of surfboards help define this relaxed cityscape. The locals are generally to be found warm and welcoming, and this intangible ambiance carries through to the quaint eateries and charming shops that line downtown. Close enough to San Diego to offer a steady job market while still feeling a world away from the concept of a 'large city', National City is a truly idyllic place to call home.

What National City landmarks should I see?

The famed Mile of Cars is one of the first 'auto malls' in the entire nation, while the houses of Brick Row are a history lover's dream, including the Kimball brothers' founding residence. San Diego Academy still stands proud today, despite opening its doors all the way back in 1899, and local National City apartment residence still pack the lines at Niederfrank's Ice Cream, a staple of frozen treat fans since the 1940s.

What is there to do around National City?

Shop for bargains at the historic and always-bustling Westfield Plaza Bonita, enjoy a candlelit dinner for two at Cafe la Maze, or stroll the scenic port area of the largest Naval base of the west coast, all reached easily from a variety of apartments for rent in National City. Bask in the architectural ambiance of Olivewood Gardens, or simply grab a slice with some of your new neighbors at the Napoleone Pizza House. 

Any annual festivals or National City events to know?

National City is home to a number of popular annual events, including early August's National City Automobile Heritage Day Car Show, which has been in existence since the early 1990s. July 4th is also known for a large fireworks display.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

Hit the road for a lengthy drive up California's west coast via Highway 101, or spend a glamorous weekend in Hollywood, both easy escapes from an array of National City apartments.

Where is the best place to move in National City?

From the historic charm of Heritage Square to the relaxed environment of car culture mecca Highland Avenue, National City apartments are as diverse as the locals that call the city home. Join them, won't you? Start your hunt for the next great California rental in your life today! 

National City, CA
Population: 61,431

Ranked #612

in US Census Population by City

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Frequently Asked Questions about National City

How much are Studio apartments in National City?

There are currently 425 Studio Apartments in National City with rent ranges from $1,375 to $2,660 with an average price of $1,991.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom National City Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in National City ranges from $1,250 to $5,028 with an average monthly rent of $2,169.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in National City cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in National City range from $1,895 to $4,320. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $2,674.

How expensive are National City Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 262 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in National City on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $2,195 to $8,518 - averaging $3,792 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

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