In a rare shift for the local rental market, apartment rent prices across San Diego County have declined over the last year, according to new data from Zumper.com.
The online rental platform reports that one-bedroom units have dropped by nearly 6% in the last year, while two-bedroom rentals are down about 8% countywide. The San Diego metropolitan area ranked 11th among U.S. cities with the most significant rent decreases.
The data reflects pricing trends across 100 major cities, tracking verified listings for apartments, condos and rental homes.
Local realtor Brian Bazinet of Compass Real Estate said renters are beginning to see more options — and slightly better prices.
“You’re going to see that in places like Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, and San Diego,” Bazinet said, referencing areas where renters may find more availability.
A one-bedroom cottage near downtown San Diego, for example, is currently listed for about $2,225 a month — significantly below the county average of just over $2,900.
The shift is largely driven by increased inventory. Over the past 12 months, rental listings have risen by about 15%, with roughly 6,400 units currently available through realtors, according to Bazinet.
M.G. Perez
M.G. Perez A survey by the Zumper online platform showed active rental listsings have increased 15% across the county, leading to more move-in promotions to attract tenants, April 6, 2026 This is a midrise apartment building in the Hillcrest neighborhood. Photo by Tom Zizzi.
“When there’s more supply, rents don’t climb as quickly,” Bazinet said.
Still, affordability remains relative in a region known for its high cost of living. Economic pressures — including rising gas prices and global instability — are also influencing both renters and property owners.
Zumper’s Director of Communications, Crystal Chen, said, “larger, newer apartment buildings — particularly in downtown San Diego — are taking longer to lease and are offering concessions to attract tenants.”
Renters willing to expand their search may find better deals inland.
“If you tell me you can afford $2,450, we’re going to look in that range,” Bazinet said. “The more east you go, generally the less expensive it gets.”
Despite the recent dip, San Diego remains one of the costliest rental markets in the country — a premium many residents continue to pay for the region’s climate and lifestyle, often referred to as the “sunshine tax.”
Read More: San Diego rents show slight decline as apartment listings increase – NBC 7
