Cheap Homes for Rent in National City, CA from $1,300 (31 Rentals)

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property at 165 Minot Ave

$1,500

1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home for Rent

Available Now

165 Minot Ave

Chula VistaCA91910

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.

property at 734 S 46th St

$1,695

1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Condo for Rent

Available Now

734 S 46th St

San DiegoCA92113

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.

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.

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.

National City, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Available National City Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in National City, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Bay Breeze Apartments in the Northwest Chula Vista Area neighborhood priced from $1,625. SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS in the Paradise Hills neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,675. Here is today’s list of the most affordable National City apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Bay Breeze Apartments1-bed/1-bath - classic1BR,1BA$1,625
SOUTHERN HIGHLANDSStudio 1Studio,1BA$1,675
2551 Commercial StOA-GStudio,1BA$1,695
Commercial Suites1BR/1.0BA1BR,1BA$1,695
Palm Shadows ApartmentsOne Bedroom1BR,1BA$1,700
Windsor Heights1-Bed/1-Bath1BR,1BA$1,700
The Glorias ApartmentsOne Bedroom1BR,1BA$1,700
Essex Manor Apartments1-Bed/1-Bath1BR,1BA$1,700
Bayview Tower Condominiums1-1 - Unfurnished1BR,1BA$1,734

Best Value Apartments for Rent in National City, CA

As of January 02, 2026 the best value apartment in the National City area is the $2.36 price per square foot Fountain Upstairs Model at Greentree Fountain Apartments in the in the South Third Avenue District neighborhood starting from $2,495. 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 ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Greentree Fountain ApartmentsFountain Upstairs2BR,2BA$2.36
Casa Corona2-bed/1-bath2BR,1BA$2.59
Sea Vale Bluff ApartmentsTwo Bedroom2BR,2BA$2.39
420 S Evans St, Unit Evans420 S Evans St2BR,1BA$2.17
Park Crest ApartmentsB12BR,1BA$2.41
Palm Shadows ApartmentsOne Bedroom1BR,1BA$1.89
The Somerset Apartments2-Bed/1-Bath2BR,1BA$2.53
The Glorias ApartmentsOne Bedroom1BR,1BA$2.27
Casa Serena2/12BR,1BA$2.57
Windsor Heights1-Bed/1-Bath1BR,1BA$2.62

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.

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The 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.

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Cash 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.

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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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Quick 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.

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National City, CA
Population: 61,431

Ranked #612

in US Census Population by City

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Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore National City, CA Rentals by Map

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Frequently Asked Questions about National City

What type of rentals are currently available in National City?

There are currently 1242 Apartments for Rent in National City, CA with pricing that ranges from $1,400 to $11,012. There are also 129 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in National City ranging from $1,300 to $15,000.

What is the current price range for Rental Homes in National City?

Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in National City ranges from $1,300 to $15,000 with an average monthly rent of $3,849.

How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in National City?

For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in National City range from $2,195 to $11,012, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $2,395 to $15,000. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $3,300 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $3,051.

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.

Articles, How-To's, and Tips

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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.

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How to Make Your Apartment Holiday-Ready: Renter-Friendly Tips

Written by: Justin Habersaat

Getting your apartment ready for the holidays can be exciting but sometimes challenging in a smaller space. Here are some modern tips to keep things festive, safe, and inviting this season.

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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.

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Apartment Common Area Rules: What Renters Need to Know

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Back in the day when I rented one of my first apartments, the property didn’t even have laundry in the building. Now, rental properties are often competing against each other to provide the best amenities.