La Mesa Apartments and Rentals

Commonly referred to as the "Jewel of the Hills," La Mesa, Calif., is located in the rolling hills of San Diego County. Many residents considered it a desirable place to live because of its proximity to many commercial and residential areas and its quaint downtown village. This city is a fun spot for people of all ages, and displays its unique character through events such as its ongoing Thursday Night Car Show and farmers' market.

In 2010, La Mesa had a population of about 57,000 residents, the U.S. Census Bureau reports. Many La Mesa apartments for rent offer locals quick access to a variety of amenities throughout the region. In fact, San Diego State University, Sharp Grossman Hospital and the Laguna Mountains are all located near La Mesa. Additionally, residents are close to the Mission Bay, La Jolla Shores and the Pacific Ocean, where they can enjoy breathtaking views of the water year-round.

La Mesa celebrated its centennial in 2012, but traces much of its development back to 1906. The city developed from an agricultural territory to a residential community after Sherman Grable purchased 100 acres in the Date Avenue area from a local land developer. Grable and Charles Park created the Park-Grable Investment Company, which turned 200 acres in central La Mesa into 1,000 lots. On February 16, 1912, the city was officially incorporated with a population of 700 residents.

There's a lot to like about La Mesa, including the rentals available in the area. Many apartments for rent in La Mesa are close to neighboring cities, including El Cajon, Lemon Grove and San Diego. La Mesa's central location even gives residents fast access to Mexico, which is about 25 miles south of the city.

The La Mesa-Spring Valley School District serves La Mesa residents, helping 12,587 students in 17 elementary schools and four middle schools. This district employs 2,094 certificated and classified workers and cover 26 square miles. 

Meanwhile, the Grossmont Union High School District assists La Mesa students from grades 9 through 12. It was established in 1920, and includes nine comprehensive high schools, four special education facilities, three charter schools, two alternative education sites, one continuation high school, a middle college high school program, a Regional Occupational Program (ROP) and an adult education program.

National University is a popular choice for those looking at community colleges in the area. It offers degree programs in several areas, including accounting and finance, leadership and human resource management, and marketing and management.

When newcomers pursue the apartments for rent in La Mesa, Calif., it's likely they will have to pay higher-than-average prices for rentals. Many units are available, but you might need to search around extensively to find low costs, which is the case for many areas in and around San Diego County. La Mesa apartment prices usually range between $800 and $2,500 per month.

Mission Trails Park is one of many popular recreational options for those exploring the rentals in La Mesa. It features almost 5,800 acres of both developed and natural land. This park is a great spot to visit to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big cities in California, giving visitors access to boating, camping and over 40 miles of trails.

Many residents enjoy regular events the city hosts throughout the year. During the summer, locals can check out classic automobiles at the car show in La Mesa Village, which is held every Thursday in June, July and August. The Friday Farmers' Market also remains a hot spot for residents, allowing them to purchase crafted goods and food from a variety of vendors.

Rent.com® can help you get settled in a La Mesa apartment. Look through our rental listings and find the perfect home for your needs.