Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA (283 Rentals)

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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 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 823 Nordahl Rd

823 Nordahl Rd

San MarcosCA92069

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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Mission Terrace
2 to 4 Bedroom Apartments

Mission Terrace

316 W Mission RdSan Marcos, CA 92069
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Westlake Gardens
2 Bedroom Apartments

Westlake Gardens

201-225 Westlake DrSan Marcos, CA 92069
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325 San Marcos Blvd
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

325 San Marcos Blvd

325 San Marcos BlvdSan Marcos, CA 92069
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Villa Aspara
2 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Villa Aspara

402-468 W San Marcos BlvdSan Marcos, CA 92069
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The Quad-Student Housing
2 to 4 Bedroom Apartments

The Quad-Student Housing

210 E Barham DrSan Marcos, CA 92078
Student Housing
  • Utilities Included
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Grandon Village
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Grandon Village

1603-1615 Grandon AveSan Marcos, CA 92078
Senior Living
  • Utilities Included
  • Smoke Free
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Shane Park Plaza
1 Bedroom Apartments

Shane Park Plaza

240-260 S Rancho Santa Fe RdSan Marcos, CA 92078

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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La Mores Estates
Studio Apartments

La Mores Estates

1175 La Moree RdSan Marcos, CA 92078
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Casitas Del Sol
Studio Apartments

Casitas Del Sol

1219 E Barham DrSan Marcos, CA 92078
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608 Wil Ev Dr
Studio Apartments

608 Wil Ev Dr

608 Wil Ev DrSan Marcos, CA 92069
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Madrid Manor
Studio Apartments

Madrid Manor

1401 El Norte PkySan Marcos, CA 92069
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171-185 Echo Ln
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

171-185 Echo Ln

171-185 Echo LnSan Marcos, CA 92069
Showing Results 1-50, Page 1 of 6

San Marcos, CA Local Guide

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Local Guide Expert

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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How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

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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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San Marcos Overview

San Marcos, California is located in the northern part of San Diego County, California. The name of the city is actually Spanish for St. Mark, a major character from the Bible. There are many people who are looking for apartments in San Marcos, California because it is relatively close to San Diego. At the same time, there are numerous San Marcos apartments available. Therefore, how can you find the right option to meet your needs? Learn more about the joys of living in this area below. Remember to reach out to someone with local knowledge who can help you find the best apartment to meet your needs.á

What is the history of San Marcos?

Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the area surrounding San Marcos, California was inhabited by Native Americans. The first settlers to arrive in this area were Spanish. The area surrounding present-day San Marcos, California was ceded to the United States following the Mexican-American War, which concluded in 1848. The area grew quickly with the gold rush in the middle of the 19th century. Eventually, as San Diego started to grow, San Marcos grew with it. This contributed to the bustling city that people know and love today.á

How is the weather in San Marcos?

The weather in San Marcos, California is similar to the rest of San Diego. The weather is relatively mild throughout the course of the year. It is unusual for temperatures to dip below 40░ Fahrenheit, even during the winter. Snow is virtually unheard of in the local area. It can get hot during the summer, but it is still unusual for temperatures to get over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though the area is located relatively close to the coast, it is still a dry heat. If you are someone who likes warm weather, then you should be happy living in San Marcos, California.á

How do I get around town?

Most people who live in this area have a car. Even though it is possible to walk around the downtown area, it is not that big. If you need to get anywhere more than a few miles away, you will want to have a car. There are public transportation options available. For example, there are buses that are operated by the North County Transit District. The same authority operates the SPRINTER light rail service. The service still does not come that often, so you will probably want to have a car. The closest airport is located in San Diego.á

What is the San Marcos commute like?

The traffic in San Marcos tends to mirror that of San Diego. Usually, traffic is heavy going into San Diego during the morning. Then, traffic is heavy leaving San Diego coming back into San Marcos in the evening. Even though traffic can get heavy during rush hour, it is still lighter than it is in the heart of San Diego. There are several major roads that go through San Marcos. These include State Route 78, CR S12, CR S14, and CR S10.á

What are the local media outlets?

Due to the proximity of San Marcos to San Diego, most of the major media outlets in San Marcos come out of San Diego. Some of the biggest TV stations in San Diego include KFMB, KSND, KGTV, and KUSI. Some of the biggest radio stations in San Marcos include KXSN, KBZT, KIOZ, and KYXY. Some of the biggest newspapers in San Marcos include the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Times of San Diego, the Mission Times Courier, and the Navy Dispatch.á

Why live in San Marcos, CA?

San Marcos is a beautiful place to live for several reasons. First, the cost of living in San Marcos is lower than it is in San Diego. Therefore, you might be able to save some money by moving to the suburbs. Second, the weather is beautiful. It is warm throughout the year, and it does not rain very often. If you love warm weather, you should be happy in San Marcos. Finally, it is relatively easy to get around. Even though traffic can get heavy during rush hour, it is still relatively light during the day. For all of these reasons, many people are moving to San Marcos.á

What San Marcos landmarks should I see?

You may want to check out a few significant landmarks in San Marcos, California. In the heart of the canyon, you will find Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park. You can learn more about what life was like several hundred years ago. If you love the outdoors, then you should check out the Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve. You should take advantage of hiking and picnic opportunities. There are some beautiful water features as well. Finally, you may want to check out Sikes Adobe Historic Farmstead. This is another opportunity for you to put your shoes in the life of a farmer from several hundred years ago.á

What is there to do around San Marcos?

San Marcos has plenty of fun things to do. If you enjoy hiking, you may want to check out Double Peak Park. The panoramic views at the top of the park cannot be found anywhere else. You might also want to check out Veterans Memorial Park. This is a great place to play sports for people of all ages. Finally, you may want to head out to one of the local lakes, such as Discovery Lake. This is a great way to cool off, particularly during the summer. There are fun water activities for people of all ages.

Any annual festivals or San Marcos events to know?

There are numerous fun events that take place throughout the year. For example, you may want to check out the Renaissance Fair, which usually takes place during the fall. There are a lot of bands that come and participate as well. You may also want to take a look at festivals that take place at the San Diego Zoo from time to time. There is usually something fun on the calendar. Finally, don't overlook fun festivals, such as the Vista Strawberry Festival, which is a great opportunity to try some of the local cuisine.á

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

When you are ready to go on vacation, there are several vacation opportunities relatively close to San Marcos. For example, you may want to make the drive to San Francisco. There is always something fun to do on the Embarcadero. Or, you may want to head to Sacramento. Sacramento is home to some of the best wine in the country. Finally, if you are willing to board a plane, you can access just about every major in the world with a plane flight or two.á

Where is the best place to move in San Marcos?

If you are looking for apartments in San Marcos, California, you may be wondering where to live. If you need to go into San Diego for work, then you may want to live close to one of the mass transit lines. Lots of young professionals prefer to live downtown. When you are ready to find your next San Marcos apartment, reach out to us for help! Let us put our local knowledge to work for you.á

Pet Friendly Lifestyle
San Marcos, CA

Ranked #135

Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

2.5
Pet Friendly

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Best Local Schools in
San Marcos, CA

School data provided by Great Schools

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

Explore San Marcos, CA Rentals by Map

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Getting Around San Marcos, CA

Walk Score®

55 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

44 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

1 / 100

Minimal Transit

It may be possible to get on a bus

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about San Marcos

How much are Studio apartments in San Marcos?

There are currently 61 Studio Apartments in San Marcos with rent ranges from $1,695 to $3,780 with an average price of $2,589.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom San Marcos Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in San Marcos ranges from $1,665 to $4,865 with an average monthly rent of $2,781.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in San Marcos cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in San Marcos range from $1,925 to $8,800. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $3,595.

How expensive are San Marcos Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 74 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in San Marcos on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $2,625 to $12,850 - averaging $5,232 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

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.

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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.

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How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Everything is a negotiation in real estate! 

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The Rental Move-In Inspection Checklist: A Guide for Renters

Written by: Trey Huguley

The move-in inspection checklist is a crucial tool for both tenants and landlords. This checklist, provided by the team at ApartmentHomeLiving.com, helps document the condition of an apartment at the time of move-in.

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Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

For many people, obstacles can arise during the rental application process for a variety of issues.