Who wouldn’t want to live in San Diego? Situated on the sunny southern California coast close to the Mexican border, life here seems a picture-perfect idyll of SoCal living. Residents can sun, surf, swim and unwind along the 17 miles of beaches and coastline.
Next-door neighbors include migrating whales, seals and sea lions. The warm weather allows for year-round outdoor fun and adventure. Thanks to renowned parks like the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND, it’s a great place to raise a family. And that’s just scratching the surface. There is also amazing food, thrilling nightlife and an active arts and culture scene.
Living in such an exciting urban environment does come at a cost, though. San Diego isn’t always the most affordable place to live for renters. But that doesn’t mean you can’t still find reasonable rates for good-quality and centrally located apartments around the city. Here’s a look at where to live in San Diego for at or just under $2,000 a month.
What is the average price of rent in San Diego?
It will come as no surprise that San Diego is an expensive place to live. As with many popular cities along the California coast, the cost of living and rental rates are high.
For a studio apartment, the average rent in the San Diego area is $2,263. For a one-bedroom apartment, the price jumps up to $2,820. If you want a spacious three-bedroom unit, expect to pay around $3,630.
But don’t despair. As you’ll see below, it’s still possible to find nice apartments in attractive, modern complexes for around $2,000 a month.
10 places to live in San Diego for $2,000
Swimming pools. Manicured gardens and outdoor areas. Well-equipped apartment gyms. On-site parking. Modern units with stylish designs and good appliances. These are just some of the amenities you can find that come with a $2,000-a-month apartment. These 10 apartment communities show just how much value — and variety — you can get for $2,000 a month in San Diego.
600 Front Apartments
SOURCE: RENT. /600 FRONT APARTMENTS
For $1,900 a month, you can get a 465-square-foot studio apartment in the M.C. Escher-esque, multi-level 600 Front Apartments community. With two different studio layouts available, this option comes with a spacious living area, kitchen and bathroom. The SB unit has a designated nook that can serve as a bedroom. Units come with a dishwasher, and community amenities include a swimming pool, laundry facilities and air conditioning.
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One of the main benefits of 600 Front is its location. Several of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods are within walking distance of your front door. At the Embarcadero, you can stroll through waterfront parks with bay views.
The Gaslamp Quarter is your one-stop destination for fantastic dining, shopping and nightlife. In the downtown area, you can catch shows at one of many theaters like the San Diego Civic Theatre or view works of art at the Contemporary Art Museum.
Canyon Park
SOURCE: RENT. /CANYON PARK
Situated close to La Jolla, Canyon Park offers residents a peaceful community of airy, nicely appointed units. Their 480-square-foot studio unit rents for $1,950 a month. With that layout, you get a large living area, bedroom corner, kitchen and bathroom. But best of all, it also comes with a private balcony or patio to enjoy some fresh air and views.
Units come equipped with a dishwasher and up-to-date appliances. When not hanging out in your cozy studio, you can take advantage of amenities like a swimming pool, fitness center and laundry facility.
Located north of central San Diego, this apartment complex would appeal to those who enjoy spending time outdoors in nature. Scenic beaches like Black’s Beach and La Jolla Cove are just a short drive away. In Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, there are hiking trails and scenic overlooks aplenty. Canyon Park could also be a good fit for students thanks to its proximity to the University of California San Diego.
Topaz
SOURCE: RENT. /TOPAZ
If you’re a student at San Diego State University looking for affordable housing close to campus, Topaz may be the spot for you. Located between the College West and College East neighborhoods, this ultra-modern apartment community is just steps from the university campus.
Grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and cheap eats are also within walking distance. With safe, controlled access, residents can enjoy amenities like a fitness center with a hot tub, included Wi-Fi, dishwashers and hang-out community areas.
Primarily marketed to students on a budget, Topaz leases out its units a bit differently from other communities. It operates on a “by the bedroom” basis, meaning that residents pay for a bedroom in a communal apartment. For $1,750 a month, you can rent a room in a three-bedroom, three-bath unit.
Each bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom, so there’s no sharing necessary. The unit also comes with its own kitchen, in-unit washer and dryer and living area to share with your roommates. This type of rental is great for students who want to room with friends or classmates.
Coral Bay Communities
SOURCE: RENT. /CORAL BAY COMMUNITIES
If you’re looking to find a one-bedroom unit for around $2,000, Coral Bay Communities will be one of your best bets. Located north of downtown close to the Bay Park and Linda Vista neighborhoods, this charming complex offers one-bedroom units for $2,053 a month. Encompassing 650 square feet, it includes a combined dining and living area, bathroom, bedroom and kitchen.
Shadowed by palm trees, the outdoor swimming pool is definitely one of Coral Bay’s top attractions. It also comes with a fitness center and communal laundry facility. The nearby Tecolote Canyon Natural Park gives residents access to nature and hiking in the heart of the city. Chic shopping, dining and watersports are also close by at Mission Bay.
Terra at Mission Trails
SOURCE: RENT. /TERRA AT MISSION TRAILS
Housed in golden-stucco buildings with terracotta tile roofs, Terra at Mission Trails offers renters a 510-square-foot studio rental for $1,900 a month. Pet-friendly, this welcoming community has tons of desirable amenities for renters. Splash around in the outdoor swimming pool, break a sweat at the fitness center or enjoy the outdoor community areas with seating and grills. Most units also come with an in-unit washer and dryer and dishwasher.
Located close to Mission Trails Regional Park, Terra at Mission Trails would be another ideal choice for outdoor lovers. This beautiful desert park comes with over 60 miles of trails to hike, as well as a small lake that’s open to boating.
STUDIOS435
SOURCE: RENT. /STUDIOS435
Maybe you’re a fan of minimalist decor. Maybe you don’t spend a ton of time at home. Whatever the reason, some renters don’t need a ton of space. If this is you, the 323-square-foot studio apartment at STUDIOS435 may be the perfect fit for you.
Available for $1,995 a month, this twee apartment may be small but goes all out on style. Subway tiles, hardwood floors and modern furnishings are a great blank canvas to make the space your own while also feeling clean and contemporary. Beds fold into the wall to maximize space, and there’s also a small kitchen and bathroom. Other studio layouts are available for even less, starting at $1,825.
The rest of the building has a laundry facility and fitness center. A cushy outdoor courtyard with chairs and couches is a perfect place to enjoy the San Diego sun. Best of all, these small units are also pet-friendly.
The location is another plus of choosing these small, modern units. It’s situated on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, with everything from dining to shopping to entertainment within walking distance. Sports fans will also love the proximity to Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres.
Bonita Mesa
SOURCE: RENT. /BONITA MESA
Located southeast of downtown, Bonita Mesa offers renters a quiet, lush place to call home. The exterior gardens, sitting areas and paths are perfectly manicured, nicely contrasting the black-and-white Tudor-style buildings.
Bonita Mesa is another place to find a one-bedroom for around $2,000 a month. Costing $1,900 a month, their one-bedroom units span 700 square feet. The layout includes a designated bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and living space. If you’re willing to go over the $2,000 budget, you can get a two-bedroom unit for $2,200.
Another plus of living here is the outdoor swimming pool. Residents also enjoy access to shared laundry facilities. Surrounded by a peaceful neighborhood, the Paradise Hills Native Garden and Recreation Center are just a short walk away. This area could be a great choice for families thanks to the proximity to nearby schools.
Pacific View Apartments
SOURCE: RENT. /PACIFIC VIEW APARTMENTS
Pacific View Apartments are another prime choice if you’re looking for a one-bedroom in the $2,000 range. Their 700-square-foot one-bedrooms go for around $1,900 a month. Amenities include a dishwasher and stylish hardwood flooring. The complex also boasts an open-air outdoor pool and laundry facility.
Located southeast of downtown, this quiet, suburban area could be perfect for families. Outdoor recreation is available close by at the Sweetwater Summit Regional Park and Reservoir. There’s a golf course as well. Proximity to schools, churches and necessities like groceries stores also makes this a great place to set down roots and join a community.
Allegro Towers
SOURCE: RENT. /ALLEGRO TOWERS
If you’re looking for luxe for $2,000 a month, you’ll find it at Allegro Towers. This multi-level, modern complex sits on the edge of downtown close to Waterfront Park. Many units offer water views, and even their smallest, most affordable unit comes with a balcony.
The $1,990 Pizzicato unit covers 645 square feet. Laid out as a long rectangle, it includes a dedicated bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and living area. But the real draw is the private balcony.
This contemporary complex has tons of amenities to keep its residents satisfied. In-unit amenities include washers and dryers, as well as dishwashers. The building is pet-friendly and with controlled access. Residents also have a rooftop swimming pool and fitness center to enjoy.
But all the benefits of living close to downtown are just steps away as well. You can catch a live music show at the Music Box, shop at the Little Italy Farmer’s Market or dine at the multitude of restaurants.
Pinnacle on the Park
SOURCE: RENT. /PINNACLE ON THE PARK
Here is another fantastic luxe apartment where you’ll get a lot for a $2,000 investment. This towering modern complex is situated close to downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter and the East Village. It boasts a ton of great amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, extra storage and in-unit washers and dryers.
Their 576-594 square foot one-bedroom units start at $2,135 a month. For that price, you get a living area, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and even your own private balcony. With updated furnishings and appliances, all units have a smart, contemporary look and feel as well.
The building’s location is within walking distance of everything from bars and restaurants to shopping and entertainment. Petco Park is also close by as well for avid sports fans.
Live that sun-soaked San Diego life for $2,000 a month
As you can see, San Diego has plenty of rental options at or below $2,000 per month for renters to choose from. In some cases, you can even find units for well below the $2,000 threshold. Look at what’s available to rent in San Diego and find your dream apartment in America’s Finest City.
