Average Rent in San Diego, CA↓ Rents falling 5.9% YoY

San Diego, CA has rental prices ranging from $2,192/month to $4,526/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $2,335/month — 67% above the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $102,285/year, spending $2,335/month on a 1-bedroom represents 27% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How San Diego Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $2,823/month, San Diego ranks #9 most expensive of the 52 cities tracked in California — pricier than 100% of all US cities in our data.

The San Diego Rental Market

The San Diego, CA area has a population of about 3,282,782 and 46% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in San Diego, CA have fallen by $178/month (5.9%) over the past year, from $3,001 to $2,823. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in San Diego, CA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $93,400. The local median household income of $102,285 exceeds that threshold by $8,885, making San Diego relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in San Diego, CA is $980,490, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 28.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 29 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Safety

Crime statistics for San Diego, CA show a violent crime rate of 526.72 per 100,000 residents (elevated) and a property crime rate of 2373.08 per 100,000 residents (moderate). As with any metro area, crime rates vary widely by neighborhood — prospective renters are encouraged to research specific areas within San Diego before signing a lease.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across San Diego's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Colina del Sol ($407,115 median home value), Gaslamp Quarter ($434,667 median home value), Grantville ($474,495 median home value). Rental prices typically follow home value patterns, with premium neighborhoods commanding higher rents than outer areas. Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is San Diego, CA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in San Diego?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in San Diego

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.