
Cheap Apartments for Rent in National City, CA from $700 (27 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in National City.


419-435 Palm Ave

1909 C Ave

Vista del Sol

Chateau Gardens

Summercrest 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.

Naranja Apartments

408 S 33rd St, Unit 2

Vista Shores – Bright, Renovated Studios Just Minutes from the Coast!

Total Monthly Price
3738 Acacia St

Total Monthly Price
3041 1/2 franklin, Unit 3041 half

1985 National Ave
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.

Southwest Village

Jean C. McKinney Manor

Mariners Village Apartments

Park Vista Apartments Homes

Casa De Roca

Oak Terrace Apartments
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.

Parkside

Euclid Terrace Apartments

542 D St Apartments

The Atherton Apartment Homes

Congregational Tower Apartments

4177-4187 Eta St
Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs
Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

Sea Vale Villas

Bay Village

66th Street
National City, CA Local Guide

How much does it cost to rent an apartment in National City?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap National City Studio Apartments | $1,884 | $1,375 | $2,950 |
| Cheap National City 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,257 | $1,485 | $3,596 |
| Cheap National City 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,755 | $1,750 | $4,654 |
| Cheap National City 3 Bedroom Apartments | $3,321 | $2,195 | $7,244 |
| Cheap National City 4 Bedroom Apartments | $4,245 | $3,579 | $5,485 |
Browse Top Apartments in National City
See all Apartments in National CityExplore National City
National City, CA Local Guide

- National City Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Available National City Apartments for Rent
 The cheapest available apartment rental in National City, CA is a Studio unit found at SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS in the Paradise Hills neighborhood priced from $1,453. Vista Shores – Bright, Renovated Studios Just Minutes from the Coast! in the Interstate 5 Corridor District neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,495. Here is today’s list of the most affordable National City apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS | Studio 1 | Studio,1BA | $1,453 |
| Vista Shores – Bright, Renovated Studios Just Minutes from the Coast! | 0+1, upstairs | Studio,1BA | $1,495 |
| 3738 Acacia St | Apt A-F | 1BR,1BA | $1,500 |
| 2949-2955 Logan Ave | 1 bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1,550 |
| Bay Breeze Apartments | 1-bed/1-bath - classic | 1BR,1BA | $1,625 |
| 2551 Commercial St-F4OZ | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,670 |
| Palm Shadows Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1,700 |
| Windsor Heights | 1-Bed/1-Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,700 |
| The Glorias Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1,700 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in National City, CA
As of February 23, 2026 the best value apartment in the National City area is the $1.55 price per square foot 1 bedroom Model at 2949-2955 Logan Ave in the in the Barrio Logan neighborhood starting from $1,550. The second greatest value National City apartment is the 2-bed/1-bath Model at Casa Corona starting at $2,395 with a $2.59 price per square foot in the Northwest Chula Vista Area neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for National City apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2949-2955 Logan Ave | 1 bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1.55 |
| Casa Corona | 2-bed/1-bath | 2BR,1BA | $2.59 |
| 420 S Evans St, Unit Evans | 420 S Evans St | 2BR,1BA | $2.12 |
| Sea Vale Bluff Apartments | Two Bedroom | 2BR,2BA | $2.39 |
| Park Crest Apartments | B1 | 2BR,1BA | $2.41 |
| Palm Shadows Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1.89 |
| 1048 & 1100 E Ave. | 3BR/1.0BA | 3BR,1BA | $2.41 |
| The Somerset Apartments | 2-Bed/1-Bath | 2BR,1BA | $2.53 |
| The Glorias Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2.27 |
| Casa Serena | 2/1 | 2BR,1BA | $2.50 |
Don'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.
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.
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.
National City, CAPopulation: 61,431
Ranked #612
in US Census Population by City
Best Local Schools in National City, CA
John A. Otis Elementary
National City Middle
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore National City, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in National City, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap National City Apartments
What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in National City?
Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in National City is at SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS listed at $1,453.
How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom National City Apartment?
The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom National City Apartment is $1,500 at 3738 Acacia St.
What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom National City Apartment for rent?
Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in National City is starting from $1,750 at Casa Serena.
What is the most affordable National City Three Bedroom Apartment?
The best deal on a cheap National City Three Bedroom Apartment rental is at 1048 & 1100 E Ave. and starts from $2,100.
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
Written by: Hayden Goldberg
Hey there! I’m Hayden, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com local expert for San Diego.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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.

18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property
Written by: Lauren Harrington
Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.

A Renters Guide for Tips on Writing Your Notice for Not Renewing Your Apartment
Written by: Bob Mallory
Packing up everything you own to move is so stressful for many that ending your apartment lease can feel like a small or unimportant task. Ending your lease involves more than simply turning over your keys on the last day.

Renting with Roommates: Realistic Expectations for Shared Lease
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Given the high costs for housing, I have found that many people are looking for a roommate to share expenses. These arrangements can increase opportunities for more desirable and larger spaces.