
Cheap Apartments for Rent in La Mesa, CA from $300 (225 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in La Mesa.


5027 Guava Ave, Unit 214

The Village at Rancho San Diego

Guava Gardens (62+ Senior Community)

4272 Harbinson Ave

7111 Waite Dr

7500 Parkway Dr, Unit 203, Unit 203

The Ridge on Jackson Apartments

Valle at Fairway

La Mesa Gardens
What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much
Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.

7438 Orien Ave

Crestview Apartments

Tierra Del Rey

Volterra Apartments

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La Cuesta

La Mesa Spring Gardens

4869-71 Pine St

5700 Baltimore Dr, Unit 187, Unit 187

La Mesa Highview Apartments

Villa Knolls Apartments
Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

Lake Murray Villa

Chateau Spring Hill Apartments

Village Apartments

Veranda La Mesa

Elan Mesa Lofts

The Village at La Mesa

Heatherwood Apartmements

5027 Guava Ave, Unit 203
Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls
When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.

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Comanche Hills

Elan Avante Apartments

5712 Baltimore Dr, Unit 5712 baltimoreDr, Unit 5712 baltimoreDr

7724 University Ave, Unit D

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The District Apartments

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Adagio

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Casa La Mesa

Villa Morocco

The Fletcher

Mellmanor Apartments
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.

THE POINTE - JUST RENOVATED! Luxurious Community, W/D In Unit

Mateus Apartments

Rancho La Mesa

Broadway Grove

The Parkway

4744 70th St

7516 Parkway Dr

4376 Rosebud Ln

Casa Verde Apartments

Mesa Cove
The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour
Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.
La Mesa, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in La Mesa?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap La Mesa Studio Apartments | $1,930 | $850 | $2,659 |
| Cheap La Mesa 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,295 | $1,375 | $4,212 |
| Cheap La Mesa 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,729 | $1,475 | $5,978 |
| Cheap La Mesa 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,867 | $1,050 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap La Mesa 4 Bedroom Apartments | $3,483 | $960 | $10,000+ |
| La Mesa 5 Bedroom Apartments | $2,970 | $899 | $7,700 |
Browse Top Apartments in La Mesa
See all Apartments in La MesaExplore La Mesa
La Mesa, CA Local Guide

- La Mesa Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Available La Mesa Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in La Mesa, CA is a 4 Beds unit found at The Rive San Diego in the Rolando neighborhood priced from $386. Victory on Paseo in the College West neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 5 Beds apartment currently listed from $899. Here is today’s list of the most affordable La Mesa apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Rive San Diego | 4x4 B | 4BR,4BA | $386 |
| Victory on Paseo | 5BR/3BA - A | 5BR,3BA | $899 |
| Vista Palms | Vista Palms 0+1s | Studio,1BA | $1,395 |
| Terrace Gardens Apartments - Seniors 55+ | One Bedroom One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,400 |
| University Gardens | 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,450 |
| Meade Avenue Apartments | 1 Bed, 1 bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,495 |
| Colina Park North Apartments | Tstd 50%Bo | Studio,1BA | $1,556 |
| Guava Gardens (62+ Senior Community) | Studios | Studio,1BA | $1,600 |
| College View | 4x4 | 4BR,4BA | $1,690 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in La Mesa, CA
As of April 30, 2026 the best value apartment in the La Mesa area is the $2.25 price per square foot 1945 Skyline Drive Model at 1945 Skyline Drive, Unit 1945 SKYLINE in the in the North Bay Terraces neighborhood starting from $4,500. The second greatest value La Mesa apartment is the 3x3 A Model at The Rive San Diego starting at $1,150 with a $0.91 price per square foot in the Rolando neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for La Mesa apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1945 Skyline Drive, Unit 1945 SKYLINE | 1945 Skyline Drive | 4BR,3BA | $2.25 |
| The Rive San Diego | 3x3 A | 3BR,3BA | $0.91 |
| Courtyard on 68th | A | 2BR,2BA | $1.83 |
| Chateau Spring Terrace Apartments | 2bed 2bath | 2BR,2BA | $2.21 |
| The Penthouse Apartments MOVE IN BONUS | 2+2 Plan C | 2BR,2BA | $2.40 |
| 120 Ballantyne st, Unit Floor Plan 4 | 120 Ballantyne st | 1BR,1.5BA | $2.00 |
| Topaz | 3x3 A | 3BR,3BA | $1.74 |
| Valle at 9121 Kenwood | Azul | 2BR,2BA | $2.27 |
| Summit Park Village | Plan 2A | 2BR,2BA | $2.44 |
| El Palacio | El Palacio 2 Bed 2 Bath - Please call at (619) ... | 2BR,2BA | $2.40 |
10 Hidden Costs of Renting You Should Budget for Before Signing a Lease
Avoid financial stress when renting. Learn about the 10 most common hidden costs—from pet fees to utilities—you must budget for before you sign a lease.
Read ArticleDon't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.
Read ArticleThe Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro
Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.
Read ArticleCash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting
Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.
Read ArticleThe 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
Read ArticleQuick Rent Budget Calculator
How much rent can you afford?
The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.
La Mesa Overview
La Mesa is a perfect location for apartment living. Featuring a mix of urban living with easy access to nature, La Mesa is the best place for a relaxed, yet urban environment.
Why live in La Mesa, CA?
With its easy access to the San Diego metropolitan area, La Mesa is the perfect location for any professional with an urban longing but unwilling to sacrifice small town comforts and space. Given its location close to the coast as well as various natural parks in the area, La Mesa gives endless opportunity for adventure and opportunity. Furthermore, the area features hot summers and warm winters, making it the perfect destination for anyone tired of the unpredictable seasons elsewhere in the country.
Best Local Schools in La Mesa, CA
Murray Manor Elementary
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore La Mesa, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in La Mesa, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap La Mesa Apartments
What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in La Mesa?
Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in La Mesa is at Vista Palms listed at $1,395.
How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom La Mesa Apartment?
The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom La Mesa Apartment is $1,400 at Terrace Gardens Apartments - Seniors 55+.
What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom La Mesa Apartment for rent?
Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in La Mesa is starting from $1,975 at 5121 Dailey Ct.
What is the most affordable La Mesa Three Bedroom Apartment?
The best deal on a cheap La Mesa Three Bedroom Apartment rental is at Victory on Paseo and starts from $1,050.
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.
Helpful Local Expert Guides

Top 10 Most Affordable Neighborhoods in San Diego: A Local Real Estate Expert Guide
Written by: Hayden Goldberg
Aloha! I’m Hayden, your local San Diego Realtor and relocation expert with ApartmentHomeLiving.com.

Your Guide to Picking the Perfect San Diego Neighborhood for Student Renters
Written by: Hayden Goldberg
Choosing the right place to live during your college years can make or break your collegiate experience. My name is Hayden, I’m a San Diego area expert with ApartmentHomeLiving.com and have been in the real estate world for years.

Ditch the Freeway: San Diego's Best Renting Spots for a Shorter Commute
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Hey there! I’m Hayden, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com local expert for San Diego.

Moving to North County San Diego: Costs, Commutes, and Culture
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Sun, surf, clean air, healthy lifestyles, and a coastline that seems to stretch as far as the eyes can see.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

A Seasoned Property Manager's Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Deposit Back
Written by: Lauren Harrington
I’m going to talk with you as a seasoned property manager and friend. So, let’s start with your security deposit. I want you to think about this guide as insider information. You deserve your deposit back.

Expert Solutions for Creating the Perfect Work-From-Home Apartment Layouts
Written by: Lauren Harrington
This article is based on first-hand experience managing apartment communities and helping renters adapt to their spaces after moving in.

What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much
Written by: Lauren Harrington
This article draws from first-hand renter experiences and recurring financial challenges reported after moving in.

Maximizing Your Refund: Essential Tax Tips for Renters
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Other than tax professionals, I can’t think of anyone who looks forward to tax season. For everybody else, April is a stressful month to collect information and meet deadlines.

