Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 01/11/2026
San Diego County blends coastal charm with vibrant urban living, offering renters a broad spectrum of housing choices. From sleek downtown apartments to spacious family homes in suburban enclaves, the market accommodates professionals, students, and retirees alike. Proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Balboa Park, and a thriving culinary scene makes the area especially attractive, while excellent schools and well‑connected transit corridors support long‑term residency throughout the county.
Rental pricing in San Diego reflects both the desirability of the location and the variety of unit types available. Studio apartments generally sit in the $2100 range, and one‑bedroom units tend toward the $2300‑$2400 bracket. Two‑bedroom apartments frequently command $3000–$3300, while larger three‑ and four‑plus bedroom units often exceed $3800 and approach the $4300–$4400 range respectively. Comparable houses follow a similar pattern, with studio‑style homes priced near $2000, one‑bedroom homes in the $2200–$2300 band, and two‑bedroom homes commonly found around $3200–$3600. Larger homes, especially those with three or more bedrooms, can reach the $4200–$5500 spectrum, highlighting the premium placed on space and private amenities in this coastal market.
Key neighborhoods such as La Jolla, Mission Valley, and North County’s Carlsbad and Encinitas are renowned for their walkable streets, boutique shopping, and access to top‑rated schools and parks. Meanwhile, the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter and East Village provide a lively nightlife and cultural hub for those seeking an energetic downtown lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to beachfront living, suburban tranquility, or an urban pulse, San Diego County’s rental market offers flexible options tailored to a wide range of preferences and budgets.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,203 | $2,241 | $1,000 - $2,950 | $1,785 - $2,639 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,041 | $2,000 | $729 - $4,610 | $1,600 - $2,440 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,254 | $2,903 | $930 - $18,283 | $2,300 - $3,645 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,970 | $3,987 | $2,795 - $5,495 | $3,795 - $4,235 |
| Apartment | 4+ Bedroom | $3,688 | $4,182 | $1,021 - $5,863 | $1,021 - $5,863 |
| House | Studio | $2,096 | $1,997 | $1,795 - $2,500 | $1,980 - $2,300 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,175 | $2,000 | $800 - $3,500 | $1,800 - $2,600 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $3,338 | $3,045 | $820 - $8,500 | $2,596 - $4,000 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $5,103 | $4,200 | $2,785 - $20,000 | $3,650 - $4,900 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $6,669 | $5,499 | $2,500 - $25,000 | $4,500 - $7,475 |
In the current period, the average rent in San Diego was $2,175 for Studio, $2,059 for 1 Bedroom, $3,271 for 2 Bedroom, $4,873 for 3 Bedroom, and $6,226 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.