10 Most Affordable San Diego Neighborhoods

This post, "10 Most Affordable San Diego Neighborhoods," was originally published on the Apartments.com Renterverse on January 18, 2019. It was updated on June 7, 2023 to reflect current rent prices.

Fountain in city square surrounded by buildings palm trees

Can you find an affordable neighborhood in San Diego, CA? Sure, you can! Like much of California, the cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average. Right now, an apartment in San Diego averages $2,958 per month, roughly 11 percent higher than this time last year. But if you’re dreaming about sun, surf, and those SoCal vibes, we have 10 affordable San Diego neighborhoods for you to explore.

Based on current rent, these are the 10 most affordable San Diego neighborhoods:

  1. 1. East County
  2. 2. Point Loma Heights
  3. 3. Mira Mesa
  4. 4. South I-15 Corridor
  5. 5. Scripps Ranch
  6. 6. Midway District
  7. 7. Hillcrest
  8. 8. Uptown San Diego
  9. 9. Balboa Park
  10. 10. East Village

Want to know more? Let’s explore each of these neighborhoods so you can find the place that fits you best.

San Diego hills and trees against blue sky with clouds

EAST COUNTY

Current rent: $2,388 per month

East County is a large area consisting of several San Diego suburbs. These suburbs include Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, and Spring Valley. Even though it’s considered suburban, East County is one of the most populated areas in the metro area.

East County San Diego is an area full of outdoor recreation, small-town charm, and stunning views. The area has something for everyone, from desert hikes to lakefront fun, and from bustling cities to quaint small towns. There are plenty of restaurants, stores, entertainment, and recreational activities to enjoy, and many communities offer community-oriented events, festivals, and activities throughout the year.

POINT LOMA HEIGHTS

Current rent: $2,675 per month

Hilly and coastal, Point Loma Heights provides you with easy access to some of San Diego’s most beloved attractions, including Ocean Beach, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, and Sea World San Diego. Located on a peninsula, residents are treated to incredible views of the San Diego Bay and beyond. The area provides a wealth of outdoor activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and hiking. It’s an easy trip down the beach to Cabrillo National Monument, and the monthly festivals and fairs provide exciting events to attend year-round.

Statue at Mira Mesa overlooking ocean

MIRA MESA

Current rent: $2,799/month

Located between the 805 and 15 freeways, Mira Mesa is a peaceful hideaway with access to everything. Residents are close to shops, restaurants, and entertainment, and public transportation is convenient. The Mira Mesa Boulevard trolley station provides residents a fun way to get around the San Diego area. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Mira Mesa is near Miramar Regional Park and Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve.

SOUTH I-15 CORRIDOR

Average rent: $2,815 per month

The South I-15 Corridor contains the suburban communities located around this popular highway and includes Miramar, Scripps Ranch, and Sabre Springs. Because of their location along I-15, these suburban locations are considered bedroom communities, with many residents heading into the city for work. However, this area contains the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar and provides easy access to recreational areas like Mission Trail Regional Park.

SCRIPPS RANCH

Average rent: $2,836 per month

As part of the I-15 Corridor, Scripps Ranch is affordable and convenient. Lake Miramar provides beautiful waterfront parks for residents to enjoy. Scripps Ranch is home to Alliant International University, making it a great location for college students. Renting in Scripps Ranch will give you easy access to both San Diego and La Jolla.

Mountains and rolling hills at sunset

MIDWAY DISTRICT

Average rent: $2,968 per month

This commercial hub is packed with restaurants and shops. Also known as North Bay, Midway District is on the northern end of the Point Loma peninsula. Residents can enjoy sports events and concerts at the Pechanga Arena, which is home to the San Diego Gulls hockey team. Residents of Midway District are close to downtown as well as Old Town.

HILLCREST

Average rent: $2,996

This densely populated neighborhood is filled with restaurants, shops, and other businesses. Hillcrest is only about three miles from Downtown San Diego, providing residents with easy access to the city center as well as San Diego Bay, Balboa Park, and the San Diego Zoo. This eclectic, diverse community offers a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from Mediterranean to Mexican and sushi to burgers.  There are plenty of live music venues, art galleries, and parks to explore, as well.

Lit up sign for Historic Heart of San Diego at night

UPTOWN SAN DIEGO

Average rent: $3,003 per month

While the rent in Uptown San Diego is slightly higher than the city’s average, the location is priceless. You’re directly north of Balboa Park, providing you with easy access to the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego National History Museum, and more. The neighborhood is teeming with shops and restaurants, and Downtown San Diego is less than three miles south.

BALBOA PARK

Average rent: $3,219

Situated just four miles east of San Diego International Airport, Balboa Park is a cultural wonderland filled with 17 museums, lush gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. This neighborhood is extremely walkable and features incredible outdoor art. The actual park is the main attraction within the community. Located minutes from downtown and the Gaslamp Quarter, you’ll love how accessible everything is from your Balboa Park apartment.  The San Diego Air & Space Museum houses a collection of historic artifacts from legends like Amelia Earhart and Buzz Aldrin. Residents also enjoy an active nightlife which includes concerts at the Starlight Bowl, Balboa Park’s outdoor amphitheater.

Aerial shot of San Diego train and city

EAST VILLAGE

Average rent: $3,250 per month

Even though East Village is the most expensive neighborhood on this list, if you want to live in Downtown San Diego, East Village is not only an affordable downtown neighborhood, it’s lively and beautiful. This downtown neighborhood sits on the east side of the popular Gaslamp Quarter, just south of Balboa Park. Living in East Village puts you smack dab in the center of San Diego, which is perfect if you want to walk or take public transportation to get around. As far as housing, East Village has everything from elegant Victorians to modern high-rises, so you’re sure to find a rental you’ll love.


*Apartment rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s June 2023 San Diego submarket reports.

**This article was originally published on January 18, 2019. It was updated on June 7, 2023 to reflect current rent prices.

Published July 7, 2023

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi! I’m Alecia, the Content Marketing Manager here at Apartments.com. I enjoy spending time with my two sons, taking pictures of the World’s Cutest Pug, and reading British mystery novels. You can find me on Twitter at @apirulis.