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Pacific Beach, San Diego: Neighborhood Guide for Expats

Casual beach community. Young professionals, surf culture, and Garnet Avenue nightlife.

Commute to Center

15 min

bus

Safety Rating

4/5

Safe

Vibe

beachyoungsurf

Rent Prices in Pacific Beach

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$2,000 - $2,400/mo$2,200 - $2,700/mo
2 Bedrooms$2,500 - $3,000/mo$2,800 - $3,300/mo
3 Bedrooms$3,200 - $3,800/mo$3,500 - $4,100/mo

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is rent in Pacific Beach, San Diego?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Pacific Beach costs $2,200 - $2,700/month (second-hand contract) or $2,000 - $2,400/month (first-hand). A 2-bedroom ranges from $2,800 - $3,300/month, and a 3-bedroom from $3,500 - $4,100/month.
Is Pacific Beach safe for expats?
Pacific Beach 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 Pacific Beach to San Diego center?
The commute from Pacific Beach to San Diego city center takes approximately 15 minutes by bus.
What is Pacific Beach like to live in?
Casual beach community. Young professionals, surf culture, and Garnet Avenue nightlife. The neighborhood is known for being beach, young, surf.

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

North Park

15 min bus to center

1BR from $2,100/mo

trendycraft-beerdiverse

Hillcrest

10 min bus to center

1BR from $2,100/mo

LGBTQ+walkablecommunity

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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