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Hillcrest, San Diego: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

LGBTQ+ friendly urban village. Walkable streets, brunch spots, and Balboa Park access.

Commute to Center

10 min

bus

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

LGBTQ+walkablecommunity

Rent Prices in Hillcrest

Monthly rent in USD ($). First-hand contracts are directly with the landlord or housing company. Second-hand (sublet) contracts are typically more expensive.

Apartment SizeFirst-Hand RentSecond-Hand Rent
1 Bedroom$1,900 - $2,300/mo$2,100 - $2,600/mo
2 Bedrooms$2,400 - $2,900/mo$2,700 - $3,200/mo
3 Bedrooms$3,000 - $3,600/mo$3,300 - $3,900/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Hillcrest, San Diego?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Hillcrest costs $2,100 - $2,600/month (second-hand contract) or $1,900 - $2,300/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $2,700 - $3,200/month, and a 3-bedroom from $3,300 - $3,900/month.
Is Hillcrest safe for expats?
Hillcrest has a safety rating of 4/5 (Safe). It is generally considered a safe area for expats and families.
How long is the commute from Hillcrest to San Diego center?
The commute from Hillcrest to San Diego city center takes approximately 10 minutes by bus.
What is Hillcrest like to live in?
LGBTQ+ friendly urban village. Walkable streets, brunch spots, and Balboa Park access. The neighborhood is known for being LGBTQ+, walkable, community.

Other Neighborhoods in San Diego

Downtown San Diego

0 min walk to center

1BR from $2,300/mo

urbanwaterfrontsports

Gaslamp Quarter

5 min walk to center

1BR from $2,400/mo

nightlifedininghistoric

La Jolla

20 min car to center

1BR from $2,500/mo

upscalebeachbiotech

Pacific Beach

15 min bus to center

1BR from $2,200/mo

beachyoungsurf

North Park

15 min bus to center

1BR from $2,100/mo

trendycraft-beerdiverse

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Updated Mar 2026

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© 2026 AffordWhere. Estimates only, not financial advice.

2026 tax rules • Mar 2026 rent data