Cheap Homes for Rent in San Diego, CA from $500 (140 Rentals)

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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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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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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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property at 165 Minot Ave

$1,500

1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home for Rent

Available Now

165 Minot Ave

Chula VistaCA91910

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.

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property at 227 16th St

$1,500 - $2,385

1 To 2 Bedroom Rentals

Available Now

227 16th St

San DiegoCA92101

Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

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San Diego, CA Local Guide

Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Diego, CA

Pricing Updated: 01/01/2026

Current apartment rentals in the San Diego, CA area range in price from $850 to $30,000 with an overall median price of $6,100. The three San Diego neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Teralta East at $1,774, Crest at $1,950, and Colina Del Sol at $1,790. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Diego Apartments for rent:

NeighborhoodMedian PriceMin PriceAvailable Units
Teralta East$1,774$1,7743
Crest$1,950$1,9501
Colina Del Sol$1,975$1,7908
Chollas Creek$1,999$1,79010
Lincoln Park$2,199$1,6951
Azalea Hollywood Park$2,250$1,8905
Azalea Park$2,250$1,8905
Cherokee Point$2,368$1,7955
El Cerrito$2,374$1,45024
Redwood Village Rolando Park$2,374$1,45024

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 ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
The Rive San Diego4x4 B4BR,4BA$386
Fifty Twenty-Five4BR/4BA - Semi Private - Elite (D)4BR,4BA$855
Victory on Paseo5BR/3BA - A5BR,3BA$871
Trolley CourtStandardStudio,$974
3942 8th AveStudioStudio,$995
Studio 15Studios - 50% AMI - Utilities includedStudio,1BA$1,050
Peachtree Inn - Fully furnished units!StandardStudio,1BA$1,062
Hillcrest InnStudioStudio,1BA$1,250
The Residences at 3954 KansasOne Bedroom, One Bath1BR,1BA$1,292
Island Village ApartmentsStudio ALL UTILITIES IncludedStudio,1BA$1,300

Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA

As of January 01, 2026 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 A Model at Courtyard on 68th starting at $2,400 with a $2.00 price per square foot in the Rolando neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Diego apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
Camerons Mobile EstatesRent a Home2BR,2BA$1.97
Courtyard on 68thA2BR,2BA$2.00
Terre at BradleySunset2BR,1BA$1.99
Topaz3x3 A3BR,3BA$1.76
The Rive San Diego2x2 B2BR,2BA$1.03
Valle at 9121 KenwoodAzul2BR,2BA$1.90
Country Gardens2/1R2BR,1BA$1.99
Palm Shadows ApartmentsOne Bedroom1BR,1BA$1.89
Iconic on Alvarado: Off-Campus Student HousingB12BR,2BA$1.80
The Residences at 3954 KansasOne Bedroom, One Bath1BR,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.

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

Explore San Diego, CA Rentals by Map

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San Diego, CA Area Reviews

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Hayden • 4+ years in San Diego

March 6, 2025

San Diego is an amazing city for families, young professionals, and retirees!

Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego

What type of rentals are currently available in San Diego?

There are currently 13234 Apartments for Rent in San Diego, CA with pricing that ranges from $850 to $30,000. There are also 2325 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in San Diego ranging from $500 to $100,000.

What is the current price range for Rental Homes in San Diego?

Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in San Diego ranges from $500 to $100,000 with an average monthly rent of $17,112.

How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in San Diego?

For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in San Diego range from $930 to $30,000, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $1,000 to $42,000. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $1,050 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $850.

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.