From Normal Heights to Mission Hills, these neighborhoods have studio and one-bedroom rents below the city's average. With picturesque views and various amenities, there are plenty of affordable places to call home in San Diego.
1. Central San Diego
2. City Heights
3. College East
4. Southeastern San Diego
5. Normal Heights
6. Mid-City
7. Mission Hills
8. North Park
9. Mission Beach
10. Marina
Read on to see what each San Diego neighborhood has to offer its residents.
Average studio rent: $1,643
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,795
Apartments for rent in Central San Diego
With an average rent for a one-bedroom unit of $1,795, Central San Diego is the most affordable neighborhood in San Diego. There are plenty of reasons to love living in Central San Diego, from attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo to green spaces like Morley Field. If you're looking for a taste of the neighborhood, there are a variety of local restaurants to explore, showcasing San Diego's food scene. For renters living in San Diego without a car, the San Diego Trolley runs through the area, making it easy to get around.
Average studio rent: $1,895
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,850
Apartments for rent in City Heights
City Heights is a bustling area that's east of Downtown San Diego. This affordable neighborhood has lots of attractions, such as Manzanita Canyon Open Space and Colina Park Golf Course. It's also significantly less expensive than San Diego's rents, so this outdoorsy neighborhood may be for you.
Average studio rent: $1,895
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,895
Apartments for rent in College East
College East is a lively neighborhood on the eastern side of San Diego. This neighborhood is next to San Diego State University and College Avenue, where there are plenty of shops and restaurants. College East has a lot of affordable apartments for rent and is close to the San Diego Trolley stop.
Average studio rent: $1,450
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,925
Apartments for rent in Southeastern San Diego
With an average one-bedroom rent of $1,925, Southeastern San Diego is the fourth-most affordable neighborhood in San Diego. This neighborhood is an excellent option as it's near attractions like El Toyon Park and MLK Park. It's centrally located near Chula Vista, so there's plenty to explore.
Average studio rent: $1,495
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,995
Apartments for rent in Normal Heights
Normal Heights is the fifth-most affordable neighborhood in San Diego. It's a great option if you're looking for access to plenty of shops and restaurants, as Normal Heights is well known for its craft beer scene, gastropubs, and coffee shops along Adams Avenue. It's also a good neighborhood for commuters, as several highways, like I-805 and I-8, are nearby.
Learn more about the Normal Heights neighborhood in San Diego.
Average studio rent: $1,700
Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,995
Apartments for rent in Mid-City
Just about 5 miles from downtown, Mid-City is a stellar neighborhood if you want to live close to downtown. It's also a great area if you're living in San Diego without a car, as Mid-City has plenty of bus routes and trolley stops. There are also parks nearby like Kensington Hillsides Open Space.
Average studio rent: $1,795
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,050
Apartments for rent in Mission Hills
Next up is Mission Hills, the seventh-most affordable neighborhood in San Diego. Mission Hills is full of history and charm, with tree-lined streets, historic buildings and museums like the Whaley House and The Bishop’s Residence. This area also has plenty of parks, restaurants, and attractions, so make sure to enjoy the outdoors at Pioneer Park or grab a meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants. There's something for everyone living in Mission Hills.
Learn more about the Mission Hills neighborhood in San Diego.
Average studio rent: $2,045
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,450
Apartments for rent in North Park
Northeast of Balboa Park is the affordable neighborhood of North Park. North Park has a friendly atmosphere and community feeling, with plenty of local cafes and restaurants along 30th Street and University Avenue, such as Caffe Calabria and The Friendly Tavern. You can also check out some of North Park's green spaces like Bird Park or catch a concert at The Observatory North Park, a restored theatre dating back to 1939.
Learn more about the North Park neighborhood in San Diego.
Average studio rent: $2,095
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,495
Apartments for rent in Mission Beach
Mission Beach takes the eighth spot on our list of most affordable neighborhoods in San Diego. The average rent for a one-bedroom unit is roughly $2,495, making Mission Beach a great option for renters looking to live by the beach. You'll have ocean-front views and access to South Mission Beach and Mission Beach Park. Make sure to explore the Mission Beach Boardwalk, which has plenty of shops and restaurants.
Average studio rent: $2,102
Average 1-bedroom rent: $2,535
Apartments for rent in Marina
Marina takes the final spot on our list on our list of the most affordable neighborhoods in San Diego. This neighborhood is located along the San Diego Bay and is just outside of downtown. Marina is home to the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum of San Diego, meaning there's plenty to do throughout the week. You'll find countless historic buildings in Marina, so make sure to explore the area's charm. If you need to commute to work, there are lots of options, as the trolley station is nearby.
Methodology: Affordability based on whether a neighborhood has average studio and 1-bedroom rent prices under the city's average. Average rental data from Rent.com in March 2024.
A California-native, Alison currently resides in Seattle and enjoys writing about housing affordability and rental market trends. When she’s not working, you can find her recipe-testing, enjoying walks outside, or going to concerts with friends and family.