studio apartments for rent in San Diego, CA

Overview of San Diego

For those looking for studio apartments for rent in San Diego, no neighborhood has such convenient access to transportation, university resources, nightlife and options for recreation as the College Area. Located in the northeast of the Mid-City region, the neighborhood - also referred to as College West and College East - is a great bet for students as well as mobile, active young professionals who like the easy upkeep of a studio because they're often on the move.

Access to transportation

While San Diego is a uniquely walkable city, proximity to public transportation can be a great convenience, especially for students who might not have access to a car. Luckily, the College Area is close to many bus and trolley lines, so you can move around the city with ease.

For those who do own a car, the College Area is close to many of San Diego's major roadways. College Avenue can quickly connect you to Interstate 8 to the north and Route 94 to the south. From there, it's easy to get to I-805 and I-15, the Escondido Freeway.

University resources, culture

In addition to making the neighborhood perfect for undergraduate and graduate students, nearby San Diego State University offers residents of the College Area who might not be engaged in studies a wealth of options for fun and entertainment. 

A leisurely stroll through the SDSU grounds will lead you to picturesque Scripps Park, located at the center of the campus, and the university-affiliated nonprofit bookseller Aztec Shops, Ltd., is a great place to buy books - at least a few weeks after the semester starts, when it isn't jam-packed with students. Alternatively, you could catch a lecture at the American Language Institute, which calls SDSU its home, or a jazz or classical music performance at the university's Recital Hall.

The great number of students who live nearby also means that there are plenty of cafes to hang out in, including the Egyptian Tea Room and Treehouse Coffee Co.

Shopping and nightlife

The College Area also has the variety of options for shopping and socializing one comes to expect from a young, academic neighborhood. 

The Campus Plaza Shopping Center and the College Center Shopping Center, located a quick walk away from each other on El Cajon Boulevard, feature an array of retail shops and restaurants, many of which specialize in ethnic cuisines.

For those who like the college bar atmosphere, College Billiards is also located on El Cajon Boulevard, while other popular bars in the area include Tina's Night Club and Marie Callender's.

Natural beauty and outdoor activities

San Diego is a breathtaking city, and the College Area is no exception. Beautiful natural canyons can be found throughout the area, and Lake Murray is located just to the north, on the other side of Interstate 8. 

The neighborhood has several parks within and just beyond its borders. Montezuma Park resides in College East, and Clay Park is a short walk to the south and into the Rolando neighborhood. On the College West side, a short walk south on 54th Street will lead you to Colina Del Sol Park.