Are you Ready for San Diego Apartment Living?

When you think of some of the most beautiful places to live in this country it is nearly impossible not to think of San Diego, California – some of the most consistently perfect weather seen in the United States, beautiful vistas from its cozy coastal location, and a thriving metropolis that allows residents to work – as well as live – comfortably.

Not surprisingly with all that it has to offer, San Diego is also one of the most expensive places to live in the U.S. Thwarted by burgeoning prices of single family homes, many San Diego residents find that apartment living offers them the comfort – and even luxury – that they desire, at the price they can afford. This is not to say, however, that San Diego apartments are low cost; but they can offer all the amenities residents want within more manageable financial means. The key to finding San Diego apartments that are most affordable is to be methodical in your search. Some things to consider are:

Size of the City

As the second largest city in the state of California, San Diego is heavily populated with a variety of apartment options. Navigating your way through all that there is to see can be half the challenge of apartment hunting in the San Diego area. By getting a good map of the San Diego area and performing your apartment hunting along a grid, you can be sure that you cover all the possibilities. The most important thing in this regard is that you do not miss any of the hidden gems of the city. Moving to an apartment in San Diego may mean a place at the beach or an affordable, eclectic studio in a neighborhood that many would have overlooked.

Competition

San Diego’s apartments experience extremely low turnover. The great apartments are simply not given up very easily and apartment hunters in this city may be challenged to find an occupancy in a neighborhood they are considering. When, however, they do find an occupancy – as is inevitably the case with consistent apartment hunting – be ready to make your move. Because of the low turnover apartment hunters need to be aggressive in this competitive market; so don’t rule out taking your checkbook along with you on your apartment hunt!

Price

Depending on the area from which you are moving the prices of San Diego apartments could be a blessing or a curse. The cost of living in this Southern California city is well above national average – over 30% above – so those moving to an apartment from other U.S. cities may experience a bit of sticker shock. Compared to other cities in California, however, – such as Los Angeles – San Diego’s apartment rental prices are actually lower.

Understand that seaside living will obviously cost more in rent; so if you have your heart set on a multi-bedroom condo on the water you may want to consider sharing the expense with roommates. If, however, you are set on solo living you can find – with some diligence and the help of some comprehensive Internet sites – a number of studios, lofts, and one-bedroom apartments in luxury apartment complexes at affordable prices.

Exploring San Diego Neighborhoods

Hillcrest

Commonly considered one of San Diego’s most diverse neighborhoods, Hillcrest is lively, hip, urban, and interesting. It has something to offer everyone from vintage shopping at Flashbacks for the trendy fashionista to pampering your pet at Catma Pet Boutique for the animal lover to a fabulous fine dining experience at Cafe Japengo for the food and wine enthusiast.

Little Italy

Little Italy is an area that has maintained it’s rich ethnic history in both business establishments and residential community since the 1920’s. Today tourists and locals alike can enjoy various festivals and attractions like Carnevale. It featured costume competitions, entertainment and unique cuisine. Artwalk San Diego is another great staple of this San Diego area, showcasing 100’s of artists, dancers, and musical performers during the annual event.

Mission valley

Mission Valley is home to outstanding shopping, dining and recreation with a diverse group of residents that make it a special place to live in the San Diego area.