San Diego Moving Guide for Renters

Residents of San Diego, California are called San Diegans—but you just call them “lucky!” San Diego, the eighth biggest city in the U.S. and the second biggest city in California, is famous for its sunny weather, gorgeous parks, fabulous beaches, and bustling downtown.

Are you among the lucky ones relocating to an apartment in San Diego? Here’s everything you need to know about the city’s top neighborhoods, best transportation options, and coolest attractions.

The Best Apartments in San Diego

You may have an idea about what living in San Diego is like, but your actual lifestyle can vary greatly depending on which neighborhood you choose to rent in. From laidback beach communities to lively urban hubs, San Diego has a neighborhood for every type.

• Pacific Beach: If you want to live in a quintessential beachfront neighborhood, Pacific Beach is a perfect option. Pacific Beach is known for its younger population, laid-back feel, great nightlife, trendy eateries, and stunning ocean views.

• Mission Hills:This neighborhood has a little something for everyone, from upscale boutiques and five-star restaurants to family-owned diners and shops. This old and impressive neighborhood isn’t on the beach, but it’s close enough that getting to the water isn’t a trek.

• Hillcrest:If you want to be near downtown,check out the Hillcrest neighborhood. Known for its diversity and big LGBTQ population, Hillcrest is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood full of interesting restaurants, dive bars, and entertainment options. It offers easy access to several San Diego freeways, making it pretty easy to get anywhere.

• Ocean Beach:Describedby residents as more “bohemian” than other San Diego neighborhoods, Ocean Beach exudes the vibes you’d expect from an oceanfront Southern California neighborhood. Known for its casual cafes, easygoing residents, farmers markets, and beautiful pier, OB is the perfect neighborhood for aspiring beach bums and surfers.

• Point Loma:If you’re looking forward to life in San Diego thanks in part to the outdoor recreational opportunities and seafood, put Point Loma on your list. The Point Loma peninsula offers spectacular views of downtown San Diego and the bay, and the neighborhood’s proximity to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park means endless outdoor fun.

• Little Italy:Originally San Diego’s Italian fishing village, Little Italy has been transformed into a young, trendy neighborhood in the heart of downtown San Diego. This neighborhood is full of high-rise condos, art galleries, and interesting shops. One thing you can’t miss in Little Italy? The incredible Italian food, of course!

Whether you opt for a high-rise loft Hillcrest or a charming bungalow in Ocean Beach, you’ll want a space that feels like home. With CORT furniture rentals, any apartment can become a furnished apartment in a flash! Take the hassle out of moving and avoid long-term furniture costs. Plus, get all of your new furniture delivered and set up for you by the CORT team!

Ideal Transportation in San Diego

Most San Diegans opt to get around the city by car. Navigating the neighborhoods isn’t too difficult, as the city streets use a grid system, but traffic and parking can be another story.

Give yourself plenty of extra time to get anywhere during rush hour, and keep coins on hand to snag a metered spot when you find it. The individual neighborhoods are (luckily) pretty walkable.

If you don’t have a car or don’t want to use it, San Diego’s buses are your next best option. The MTS bus routes cover most of the city, and a one-way bus fare costs $2.25. The MTS trolley can also take you around downtown San Diego and several surrounding areas.

Top Attractions in San Diego

Whether you've live in San Diego for one year or 20, you’ll never run out of fun things to do. Spend the day at one of the city’s excellent beaches or visit one of the city’s hiking trails, like Torrey Pines State Park.

Foodies will love the city’s diverse culinary options, with truly every type of cuisine available. Shop at one of the city’s farmers markets, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, catch a concert at The Observatory North Park, or cheer on the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.

No matter what your favorite hobbies are or how you prefer to spend your time, San Diego has something for you!

Make the Move to San Diego!

Are you ready to make the move to “America’s Finest City?” Now that you’re in the know, it’s time to go! Pack up your sunscreen and your sunglasses, and let’s find your perfect new home. Search recently listed San Diego apartments today and make your move!