20840 Elfin Forest Rd
EscondidoCA92029
Cheap Homes for Rent in San Marcos, CA from $1,400 (27 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Homes available for rent right now in San Marcos.
1146 Calle Emparrado
San MarcosCA92069
1731 Watson Way #C C
VistaCA92083
830 W Lincoln Ave
EscondidoCA92026
1350 N Escondido Blvd
EscondidoCA92026
6442 La Paloma St
CarlsbadCA92009
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.
3511 De Leone Rd
San MarcosCA92069
close
View Me
425 Autumn Dr
San MarcosCA92069
2249 N Nutmeg St, Unit 2249 A
2249 N Nutmeg St
EscondidoCA92026
close
View Me
343 Autumn Dr
San MarcosCA92069
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.
205 Woodland Pkwy, Unit Unit235
205 Woodland Pkwy
San MarcosCA92069
1809 Devon Pl
VistaCA92084
525 W El Norte Pkwy
EscondidoCA92026
1620 1/2 York Dr
VistaCA92084
1195 La Moree Rd
San MarcosCA92078
269 W San Marcos Blvd
San MarcosCA92069
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.
343 Autumn Dr
San MarcosCA92069
305 W San Marcos Blvd
San MarcosCA92069
909 Richland Rd
San MarcosCA92069
1051 Ficus Ln
San MarcosCA92069
1083 Shadowridge Dr
VistaCA92081
240 W Lincoln Ave
EscondidoCA92026
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.
269 W San Marcos Blvd
San MarcosCA92069
1145 N Broadway
EscondidoCA92026
647 Beverly Pl
San MarcosCA92078
Showing Results 1-27, Page 1 of 1
San Marcos, CA Local Guide
How much does it cost to rent a home in San Marcos?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Marcos 2 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $2,984 | $1,450 | $6,000 |
| San Marcos 3 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $4,268 | $2,595 | $7,500 |
| San Marcos 4 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $5,274 | $3,800 | $8,900 |
| San Marcos 5 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $6,914 | $4,650 | $10,000+ |
| San Marcos 6 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $17,833 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
| San Marcos 7 Bedroom Homes for Rent | $15,500 | $10,000 | $10,000+ |
Browse Top Homes for Rent in San Marcos
Explore San Marcos
San Marcos, CA Local Guide
- San Marcos Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
- ZIP codes
- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in San Marcos, CA
Pricing Updated: 11/16/2025Current apartment rentals in the San Marcos, CA area range in price from $1,695 to $11,150 with an overall median price of $5,262. The three San Marcos neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Paloma at $1,737, Grand Estates at $1,695, and Lake San Marcos at $2,000. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for San Marcos Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paloma | $3,755 | $1,737 | 69 |
| Grand Estates | $3,770 | $1,695 | 100 |
| Lake San Marcos | $3,770 | $2,000 | 35 |
| University Commons | $4,597 | $2,300 | 26 |
| Atherton at San Elijo Hills | $6,000 | $2,000 | 99 |
| Mira Lago | $6,000 | $1,888 | 163 |
| Richland Villas | $6,000 | $1,888 | 152 |
| San Elijo Hills | $6,000 | $2,379 | 77 |
| Vallecitos Ridge | $6,000 | $2,000 | 101 |
| Village O | $6,000 | $2,000 | 116 |
Cheapest Available San Marcos Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in San Marcos, CA is a 1 Bed unit found at Village Green Senior Community in the North Broadway neighborhood priced from $1,670. 55+ Senior Living at Quail Creek Apartments in the Jesmond Dene neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 1 Bed apartment currently listed from $1,750. Here is today’s list of the most affordable San Marcos apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Village Green Senior Community | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1,670 |
| 55+ Senior Living at Quail Creek Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $1,750 |
| Casa Escondida | One Bedroom, One Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,795 |
| Valle at Mission | Palm | 1BR,1BA | $1,835 |
| Overture San Marcos 55+ Senior Housing Apartment Homes | A2 | 1BR,1BA | $1,888 |
| Country Club Gardens | One Bedrooms | 1BR,1BA | $1,895 |
| Sycamore Ridge Apartments | 1 Bedroom/ 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $1,925 |
| Pepperwood Apartments | Plan 1 | Studio,1BA | $1,995 |
| Reidy Creek II | Alder | 1BR,1BA | $1,999 |
| Hidden Cove | Driftwood | 1BR,1BA | $2,008 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA
As of November 16, 2025 the best value apartment in the San Marcos area is the $2.02 price per square foot A Model at Santa Fe Townhomes in the in the Grand Estates neighborhood starting from $3,395. The second greatest value San Marcos apartment is the Three Bed Two Bath Home - Upstairs Model at Diamond Pointe starting at $2,800 with a $2.33 price per square foot in the Urbana at Citracado Village neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for San Marcos apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe Townhomes | A | 2BR,2.5BA | $2.02 |
| Diamond Pointe | Three Bed Two Bath Home - Upstairs | 3BR,2BA | $2.33 |
| Latitude 33 | Plan B1 | 2BR,2BA | $2.39 |
| Liberty Triplex | 2 Beds, 2 baths | 2BR,2BA | $2.60 |
| Elan Riverwalk | 22A | 2BR,2BA | $2.63 |
| Windsong Villas | 2/1 Casita (Single Story) | 2BR,1BA | $2.61 |
| Country Club Villas | Plan One | 1BR,1BA | $2.47 |
| Benchmark Apartments | 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom | 1BR,1BA | $2.63 |
| Sycamore Ridge Apartments | 1 Bedroom/ 1 Bath | 1BR,1BA | $2.67 |
| 55+ Senior Living at Quail Creek Apartments | One Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2.44 |
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 Article
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 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.
Let everyone know!
Do you know the San Marcos area?
If you’re an expert on all things San Marcos, tell us what you love (and don't) by rating it and writing a review.
Write a Review
Pet Friendly LifestyleSan Marcos, CA
Ranked #136
Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities.
Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score
2.5Pet Friendly
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
See the most popular apartments and homes in San Marcos, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about San Marcos
What type of rentals are currently available in San Marcos?
There are currently 274 Apartments for Rent in San Marcos, CA with pricing that ranges from $1,665 to $11,150. There are also 137 Single Family Homes for rent, Condos, and Townhome rentals currently available in San Marcos ranging from $1,450 to $30,000.
What is the current price range for Rental Homes in San Marcos?
Today's rental pricing for Homes for Rent, Condos and Townhomes in San Marcos ranges from $1,450 to $30,000 with an average monthly rent of $9,757.
How much are larger Three and Four Bedroom Rentals in San Marcos?
For those who are looking for larger living arrangements, Three Bedroom Apartments in San Marcos range from $2,625 to $11,150, while Three Bedroom Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for rent range from $2,595 to $7,500. Four Bedroom Single-Family rentals are also available starting from $3,800 and Four Bedroom Apartments start at $5,500.
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.
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!
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.
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.