Renting In San Diego: Average Costs Explored

what is the average rent in san diego

The average rent in San Diego, California, varies depending on the source and the month in which the data was collected. As of August 2025, the average rent for all property types in San Diego is $2,800 according to Zumper, while Apartments.com reports an average rent of $2,365 for the same period. Zillow, on the other hand, estimates the average rent in San Diego to be $3,137 as of August 2025. These estimates are significantly higher than the national average, making San Diego one of the most expensive cities in the US. The cost of living in San Diego is approximately 45% higher than the national average, with housing costs being 112% more expensive. The most affordable neighborhoods in San Diego include Downtown, Downtown San Diego, Little Italy, City Heights, and Talmadge, where rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,850 to $1,895. In contrast, the most expensive neighborhoods include Mission Valley, Harborview, Rolando, and Carmel Valley, with average rents ranging from $3,284 to $3,866.

Characteristics Values
Average rent in San Diego $2,365 per month (as of August 2025)
Average rent for a studio apartment $2,023 per month
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment $2,272 - $2,365 per month
Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment $2,945 - $2,972 per month
Average rent for a three-bedroom rental $3,825 or more per month
Average rent for a non-climate-controlled 10'x10' storage unit $245.32 per month
Most affordable neighborhoods Downtown, Downtown San Diego, Little Italy, Redwood Village-Rolando Park, Bay Terraces, San Ysidro South, Egger Highlands, City Heights, Talmadge
Most expensive neighborhoods Harborview, Rolando, Carmel Valley, Little Italy, The Shores, Torrey Reserve Gateway, Mission Valley, East Village, Bankers Hill - Park West
Cost of living compared to the national average 45% - 49.38% higher

shunrent

Average rent in 2025

As of August 2025, the average rent in San Diego, California, is $2,365 per month. This price varies depending on the number of bedrooms and the neighbourhood. For instance, the average rent for a studio apartment in San Diego is $2,023 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment will cost around $2,365 per month. Expect to pay approximately $2,972 for a two-bedroom apartment and $3,825 or more for a three-bedroom rental.

The average rent in San Diego also differs by neighbourhood. For instance, the most expensive neighbourhoods include Harborview ($3,597), Rolando ($3,636), and Carmel Valley ($3,284-$3,866). On the other hand, the most affordable neighbourhoods include Egger Highlands ($2,065), Bay Terraces ($2,125), and Redwood Village-Rolando Park. The East Village is the most popular neighbourhood, with an average rent of $2,913.

The overall cost of living in San Diego is 45% higher than the national average. Housing in the city is 112.1% more expensive than the national average, with rent ranging from $2,023 to $3,825. Utilities, groceries, and transportation are also more costly, with prices 41.9%, 11.3%, and 41.6% higher than the national average, respectively.

Other sources suggest that the average rent in San Diego is $3,137, while the median rent for all bedroom counts and property types is $2,800. The average rent for apartments in San Diego is said to range from $1,930 to $2,945.

shunrent

Rent by property type

The average rent in San Diego varies depending on the property type and the number of bedrooms. Here is a breakdown of the average rent for different property types:

Studio Apartments

The average rent for a studio apartment in San Diego ranges from $1,930 to $2,023 per month. This type of property is suitable for individuals or couples who do not require multiple bedrooms.

1-Bedroom Apartments

For 1-bedroom apartments, the average rent in San Diego ranges from $1,850 to $2,365 per month. This option is ideal for individuals or couples who desire more space or an additional room for an office or guest room.

2-Bedroom Apartments

2-bedroom apartments in San Diego have an average rent ranging from $2,945 to $2,972 per month. This option caters to small families, roommates, or those seeking an extra bedroom for various purposes.

3-Bedroom Rentals

For larger families or groups, 3-bedroom rentals are available, with an average rent of $3,825 or more per month. This option provides ample space and privacy for multiple occupants.

Houses

The average rent for a house in San Diego spans a wide range, from $101 to $300,000 per month. This vast range captures the diversity of housing options available, from more affordable homes to luxurious estates.

It is worth noting that rent prices can vary significantly across different neighborhoods in San Diego. While some areas, like Downtown, Little Italy, City Heights, and Talmadge, offer more affordable options, neighborhoods like Mission Valley, Harborview, Rolando, and Carmel Valley tend to be more expensive.

shunrent

Most expensive neighbourhoods

San Diego is a sunny city known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse neighbourhoods. The average rent across all property types in the city is $2,365, though other sources place it at $2,954 and $3,137. The cost of living in San Diego is 45.7% higher than the national average, and housing specifically is 112.1% more expensive.

Uptown

Uptown is the most expensive neighbourhood in San Diego, with an average rent of $3,350 for a one-bedroom unit. The area boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with trendy bars and live music venues such as the historic Observatory North Park. Food enthusiasts will also enjoy the eclectic culinary scene, which includes popular spots like Cucina Urbana and The Smoking Goat. Additionally, Uptown is home to Balboa Park, a cultural hub with museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo.

Western San Diego

With an average rent of $3,072 for a one-bedroom apartment, Western San Diego offers a charming and laid-back coastal living experience. The area is known for its renowned seafood restaurants, popular brunch spots, and lively farmers' markets. Residents can easily access beautiful beaches and enjoy the friendly, community-oriented atmosphere.

Mission Valley

Ranking as the third most expensive neighbourhood in San Diego, Mission Valley has an average one-bedroom rent of $3,072.

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley is one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in San Diego, with an average rent of $3,866.

Little Italy, The Shores, and Torrey Reserve Gateway

These neighbourhoods are consistently listed among the most expensive in San Diego, but specific rent estimates are not readily available.

shunrent

Most affordable neighbourhoods

The average rent in San Diego, California, is $2,365 per month, which is 44% higher than the national average rent price. This makes San Diego one of the most expensive cities in the US. Studio apartments in San Diego rent for around $2,023 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment will cost about $2,365, and a two-bedroom will cost around $2,972. Three-bedroom apartments can cost $3,825 or more.

The most affordable neighbourhoods in San Diego include Egger Highlands ($2,065), Bay Terraces ($2,125), and Midway ($2,170). These neighbourhoods offer below-average rent prices for the city, and are therefore considered relatively affordable options.

Redwood Village-Rolando Park, Encanto, and Paradise Hills are also considered affordable neighbourhoods in San Diego. These areas offer lower rent prices and are within walking distance of downtown, making them convenient options.

Rancho Bernardo is another affordable neighbourhood, known for its quick access to top jobs, quality schools, outdoor recreation, and safe environment.

Scripps Ranch is a safe, affordable neighbourhood with scenic parks, walking trails, and trendy bars and restaurants. It is a great option for those seeking a convenient and enjoyable lifestyle.

shunrent

Cost of living in San Diego

The cost of living in San Diego is significantly higher than the US national average. Overall, the cost of living in this California city is around 45% higher than the national average. Housing is particularly expensive, with rent prices in San Diego being almost 50% higher than the national average.

As of August 2025, the average rent in San Diego is $2,365 per month. This is 44% higher than the national average rent price of $1,638 per month. The average rent for a studio apartment in San Diego is $2,023 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment will cost you around $2,365 per month. If you're looking for a two-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay approximately $2,972 per month. For a three-bedroom rental, the price goes up to $3,825 or more.

Rent prices vary across San Diego's neighbourhoods. The most affordable areas include Downtown, Downtown San Diego, Little Italy, City Heights, Talmadge, Egger Highlands, Bay Terraces, and Midway. In these neighbourhoods, rent prices range from $1,850 to $2,170 per month. On the other hand, the most expensive neighbourhoods in San Diego include Harborview, Rolando, Carmel Valley, Little Italy, The Shores, and Torrey Reserve Gateway. Rent prices in these areas can go up to $3,866 per month.

The cost of other expenses in San Diego is also higher than the national average. Groceries are around 11% more expensive, utilities are 41.9% higher, and transportation costs are 41.6% more. Therefore, when considering the cost of living in San Diego, it's important to factor in these additional expenses on top of the already high rent prices.

Frequently asked questions

The average rent in San Diego, California, varies depending on the source and the month of the data. As of August 2025, the average rent for all property types is $2,800 according to Zumper. Other sources state that the average rent is $2,954 or $3,137.

The average rent for an apartment in San Diego depends on the number of bedrooms. For a studio apartment, the average rent is $1,930. For a one-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $2,272. For a two-bedroom apartment, the average rent is $2,945.

The most expensive neighborhoods in San Diego include Harborview ($3,597), Rolando ($3,636), Carmel Valley ($3,284-$3,866), and Mission Valley ($3,545).

Written by
Reviewed by

Explore related products

Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment