San Diego Apartments and Rentals

Any frigid February, call around the country and ask your friends, "How'd you like to live in San Diego?" You can bet they'll see the appeal of this idea. San Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States and perfect for those seeking sunshine, sea views, or Southern California style. Residents here enjoy a superb climate, bustling business, and access to some incredible outdoor opportunities-from the Pacific coast to the desert, from SeaWorld to Baja California. Whether you're a hard-core surfer or sailing with the U.S. Navy, a San Diego apartment is sure to suit you swimmingly.

San Diego is built around one of the best natural harbors on the West Coast. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo saw its value all the way back in 1542 when he claimed the land here for Spain. It wasn't until 1850, however, that San Diego and California became part of the United States. The railroads, then the Navy helped this part of the country grow. Take a tour around the city and you'll see what's been attracting explorers here for centuries.

Start your tour of San Diego with a trip to Old Town at the west end of Mission Valley. That's where European settlers formed the kernel that would sprout into this city. Head up the coast to La Jolla and the University Area to check out the energy around UCSD. Pacific Beach, or P.B. as the locals call it, draws revelers day and night. While the sun is up, watch dolphins cavort off the coast from here. After dark, bounce to the beachside beats in lively bars. Then, if you have any energy left, take a spin through the historic Gaslamp Quarter Downtown. It's all part of living the good life in San Diego.

This part of the country has also been proudly associated with the U.S. Navy since 1901. Back then, there was only a coaling station at Point Loma. Today this deep water port hosts the largest naval fleet in the world. If you're not working in military or defense, then perhaps you're coming to San Diego to work in healthcare or biotechnology-both major local industries. Many also find work in San Diego in tourism, international trade, or manufacturing.

If you're after an education, San Diego hosts some excellent public and private universities. On the public side, the University of California, San Diego is the biggest name in town. There's also San Diego State University and the San Diego Community College District's three campuses. Private schools here include the University of San Diego, National University, and many others.

San Diego is, unfortunately, one of the most expensive American cities in which to live. Rents here are about double the national average, coming in at $1,648 a month. Vacancy rates in San Diego are also low-3.9% as of 2011. While this means that housing can be hard to come by, Rent.com can help you find a place that suits your style.

The good news is that San Diego is safe city-even less polished areas are worth a look. Also, keep in mind that many of your entertainment options here will be free. It doesn't cost anything to go to the beach. That savings can help offset what you pay in rent.

Major attractions in San Diego include the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld San Diego. For history buffs, there's the Mission San Diego de Alcala. If you're in the mood for culture, both the Old Globe Theatre and the La Jolla Playhouse have produced Tony Award winning productions. Sports fans will want to watch the San Diego Chargers and the San Diego Padres play. And don't forget the surfing, the golf, the Mexican food, and much more to enjoy in sunny San Diego.

San Diego has a climate that keeps people loving the outdoors all year round-that means you won't have to wait long for a festival. In this city, you can hit everything from the Dixieland Jazz Festival to the U.S. Lifeguard Championships. Maybe you've heard of Comic-Con, the nation's largest comic book and pop-culture expo? That goes down every summer in San Diego. In the winter, there are big shows to see, too-just watch the whales migrating along the coast.

Whether you're headed to San Diego for business, school, or to wriggle your toes in the sand, Rent.com® can help you get settled. Look through our listings and let us lend a hand.