Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
El Cajon’s rental market offers a diverse mix of housing options that cater to professionals, families, and students alike. Apartment living is strong in the city, with studio units generally falling in the $1500‑$1800 range and one‑bedroom apartments hovering around the $1700‑$1800 bracket. Larger families often find two‑ and three‑bedroom apartments appealing, with typical rents in the $2200‑$2900 range, reflecting the city’s spacious layouts and modern amenities. For those preferring the privacy of a single‑family home, studio and one‑bedroom houses are priced similarly to apartments, while two‑bedroom homes typically command rates in the $2700‑$2800 tier. Larger homes with three or more bedrooms are available for rent in the $3600‑$4350 range, providing ample space for growing households.
Neighborhoods such as Grossmont, the historic downtown district, and the family‑friendly Marina Village each contribute a unique character to El Cajon’s rental landscape. Proximity to Lake Murray, the vibrant El Cajon Plaza, and Cuyamaca College makes the city especially attractive to outdoor enthusiasts, shoppers, and students. The easy access to major freeways connects residents to the broader San Diego region, while local parks, the El Cajon Country Club, and cultural events foster a strong sense of community.
Overall, El Cajon rentals are characterized by a balanced blend of affordability and convenience, with a range of apartments and houses that suit various lifestyle needs. Whether you’re seeking a compact studio near downtown amenities or a spacious family home in a quiet suburb, the city’s rental inventory provides flexible choices that reflect the growing appeal of Southern California’s inland communities.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $1,755 | $1,520 | $1,245 - $7,110 | $1,395 - $1,695 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $1,791 | $1,795 | $950 - $2,700 | $1,700 - $1,900 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $2,287 | $2,250 | $980 - $5,870 | $2,132 - $2,400 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $3,330 | $2,897 | $739 - $8,000 | $2,700 - $3,354 |
| House | Studio | $1,771 | $1,745 | $1,495 - $2,100 | $1,595 - $2,100 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $1,681 | $1,797 | $800 - $2,150 | $1,695 - $1,955 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $2,702 | $2,797 | $1,095 - $3,600 | $2,500 - $3,000 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $3,698 | $3,575 | $2,650 - $7,250 | $3,300 - $3,975 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $4,801 | $4,325 | $2,685 - $18,750 | $4,000 - $4,800 |
In the current period, the average rent in El Cajon was $1,757 for Studio, $1,781 for 1 Bedroom, $2,385 for 2 Bedroom, $3,554 for 3 Bedroom, and $4,545 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.