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$871 - $2,4003 to 5 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Victory on Paseo
5505 Lindo PaseoSan Diego, CA 92115
Cheap Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA from $300 (251 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in San Diego.
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$974 - $1,029Studio Apartments Available Now
Trolley Court
940 Park BlvdSan Diego, CA 92101
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$995 - $1,450Studio Apartments Available Now
3942 8th Ave
3942 8th AveSan Diego, CA 92103
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$1,033 - $1,124Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
The Orchard Senior Apartments (55+)
4040-4080 Hancock StSan Diego, CA 92110
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$1,062 - $1,343Studio Apartments Available Now
Peachtree Inn - Fully furnished units!
901 F StSan Diego, CA 92101
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4432 Pacific Hwy
San DiegoCA92110
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Rent Specials
$1,300 - $2,167Studio Apartments Available Now
Island Village Apartments
1245 Market StSan Diego, CA 92101
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$1,301Studio Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Harrington Heights - Affordable Housing
1320 BroadwaySan Diego, CA 92101
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.
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Rent Specials
$1,350 - $1,860Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Luther Tower - 55+ Affordable Community
1455 2nd AveSan Diego, CA 92101
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$1,395 - $2,399Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Vista Lane Family Homes - Affordable Housing
3501 Vista LnSan Diego, CA 92173
6313 Kimmy Ct
San DiegoCA92114
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Rent Specials
$1,425 - $1,800Studio Apartments Available Now
Vantaggio Suites Hillcrest
819 University AveSan Diego, CA 92103
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$1,450 - $1,921Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Presidio Apartments
3350 Rosecrans StSan Diego, CA 92110
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Rent Specials
$1,450 - $3,750Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Marquis at Hillcrest
1751 University AveSan Diego, CA 92103
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$1,450 - $1,5002 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
Villa Hermosa I
314 Willie James Jones AveSan Diego, CA 92102
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Rent Specials
$1,450 - $1,800Studio Apartments Available Now
Vantaggio Little Italy
1736 State StSan Diego, CA 92101
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$1,4501 Bedroom Apartments Contact Us For Availability
University Gardens
5622 University AveSan Diego, CA 92105
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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$1,500 - $2,500Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
The Theater Apartments
3949 Kansas StSan Diego, CA 92104
3067 Grape St
San DiegoCA92102
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$1,525 - $1,825Studio Apartments Available Now
Studios435: Furnished Studios with Modern Esthetic
435 13th StSan Diego, CA 92101
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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.
1808 Third Ave
San DiegoCA92101
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$1,598 - $2,200Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Hilltop Terrace
4166 4th AveSan Diego, CA 92103
4036 1/2 Louisiana St
San DiegoCA92104
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Talmadge Senior Village(55+ Senior Community)
5252 El Cajon BlvdSan Diego, CA 92115
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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.
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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.
San Diego, CA Local Guide
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in San Diego?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap San Diego Studio Apartments | $2,385 | $974 | $5,611 |
| Cheap San Diego 1 Bedroom Apartments | $2,862 | $1,124 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Diego 2 Bedroom Apartments | $3,544 | $855 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Diego 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,587 | $930 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap San Diego 4 Bedroom Apartments | $3,722 | $850 | $10,000+ |
| San Diego 5 Bedroom Apartments | $6,425 | $871 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Apartments in San Diego
See all Apartments in San DiegoExplore San Diego
San Diego, CA Local Guide
Written By:
Justin HabersaatEditing Staff
- San Diego Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Diego, CA
Pricing Updated: 12/15/2025Current apartment rentals in the San Diego, CA area range in price from $850 to $30,000 with an overall median price of $6,157. The three San Diego neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Teralta East at $1,774, Lincoln Park at $1,450, and Crest at $1,950. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Diego Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teralta East | $1,774 | $1,774 | 2 |
| Lincoln Park | $1,895 | $1,450 | 1 |
| Crest | $1,950 | $1,950 | 1 |
| Chollas Creek | $2,097 | $1,790 | 11 |
| Valencia Park | $2,147 | $1,650 | 2 |
| Colina Del Sol | $2,260 | $1,790 | 8 |
| Logan Heights | $2,299 | $1,625 | 9 |
| El Cerrito | $2,319 | $1,450 | 22 |
| Azalea Hollywood Park | $2,492 | $1,890 | 4 |
| Azalea Park | $2,492 | $1,890 | 4 |
Cheapest Available San Diego Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in San Diego, CA is a 4 Beds unit found at The Rive San Diego in the Rolando neighborhood priced from $386. Fifty Twenty-Five in the College West neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 4 Beds apartment currently listed from $855. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Diego apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Rive San Diego | 4x4 B | 4BR,4BA | $386 |
| Fifty Twenty-Five | 4BR/4BA - Semi Private - Elite (D) | 4BR,4BA | $855 |
| Victory on Paseo | 5BR/3BA - A | 5BR,3BA | $871 |
| Trolley Court | Standard | Studio, | $974 |
| 3942 8th Ave | Studio | Studio, | $995 |
| Studio 15 | Studios - 50% AMI - Utilities included | Studio,1BA | $1,050 |
| Peachtree Inn - Fully furnished units! | Standard | Studio,1BA | $1,062 |
| Hillcrest Inn | Studio | Studio,1BA | $1,250 |
| The Residences at 3954 Kansas | One Bedroom, One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,292 |
| Island Village Apartments | Studio ALL UTILITIES Included | Studio,1BA | $1,300 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA
As of December 15, 2025 the best value apartment in the San Diego area is the $1.97 price per square foot Rent a Home Model at Camerons Mobile Estates in the in the Prospect Glen neighborhood starting from $2,750. The second greatest value San Diego apartment is the 2x2 Duplex Model at Fountain Estates Apartments starting at $2,450 with a $1.97 price per square foot in the San Pasqual neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Diego apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camerons Mobile Estates | Rent a Home | 2BR,2BA | $1.97 |
| Fountain Estates Apartments | 2x2 Duplex | 2BR,2BA | $1.97 |
| Topaz | 3x3 A | 3BR,3BA | $1.76 |
| The Rive San Diego | 2x2 B | 2BR,2BA | $1.03 |
| Valle at 9121 Kenwood | Azul | 2BR,2BA | $2.00 |
| Shady Terrace | 2/2 Balcony | 2BR,2BA | $1.99 |
| Country Gardens | 2/1R | 2BR,1BA | $1.99 |
| Palm Shadows Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1.89 |
| Iconic on Alvarado: Off-Campus Student Housing | B1 | 2BR,2BA | $1.80 |
| The Residences at 3954 Kansas | One Bedroom, One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1.72 |
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.
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.
San Diego Overview
San Diego is a major city on the Pacific Coast in Southern California and is adjacent to the Mexican border. Home to over 1.3 million people, San Diego is the eighth largest city in the United States and is nicknamed “America’s Finest City”. The major industries are military/defense, tourism, international trade, and manufacturing. There is also a wide variety of apartments in San Diego available for residents who move here to find a great place to call home.
Why live in San Diego, CA?
While the cost of living is higher than average in San Diego, the city offers near perfect weather year round, a wide variety of outdoors activities, beautiful beaches, museums and other cultural centers, and a professional sports events. Fans of local sports have their choice of supporting the San Diego Chargers (football), the San Diego Padres (baseball), the San Diego Gulls (ice hockey) and a newly formed rugby team.
Pet Friendly LifestyleSan Diego, CA
Ranked #4
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
3.5Pet Friendly
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore San Diego, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Diego, CA
Getting Around San Diego, CA
Walk Score®
74 / 100
Very Walkable
Most errands can be accomplished on foot
Bike Score®
57 / 100
Bikeable
Some bike infrastructure
Transit Score®
46 / 100
Some Transit
A few nearby public transportation options
What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?
- Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
- Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
- Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
San Diego, CA Area Reviews
Do you know the San Diego area?
Let everyone know!
Write a Review
Hayden • 4+ years in San Diego
March 6, 2025San Diego is an amazing city for families, young professionals, and retirees!
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap San Diego Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in San Diego?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in San Diego is under $1,300.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in San Diego?
The cheapest apartment in San Diego is The Residences at 3954 Kansas which is listed at $1,292, while the average apartment in San Diego costs $6,157.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in San Diego?
Student, low-income, and by-the-bed apartments are typically the cheapest rentals in most cities, though they require qualifying criteria to rent. There are 4,553 regular apartments in San Diego that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.
How do the prices of cheap apartments compare to the average apartment in San Diego?
Cheap apartments in San Diego have an average cost of $662 which is $5,495 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in San Diego.
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
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.
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.
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.
How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Everything is a negotiation in real estate!