Don’t let the high cost of living in Southern California scare you away. Learn how far $2,300 will get you in the area.
For most of us, living in Southern California is a dream. The weather is incredible, the people are kind, and there are always amazing activities to do. The list of reasons to live here far outweighs the negatives.
The only issue might be the cost of rent. Making ends meet in California isn’t always easy when the housing market is difficult to navigate. Currently, the average rent for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in Southern California sits at around $2,300, depending on which county you are looking to live in. According to RentCafe.com, we are well above the national average of roughly $1,750.
We took a look at apartments in the region and highlighted what you can get for the average rent price. Whether you’re interested in the market, a local seeking a new spot to live, or a transplant ready to make your move to SoCal, this is what $2,300 can get you.
Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita is located about 30 miles from Los Angeles. Its distance from the big city makes it a less expensive option for renters. Don’t let the drive to Los Angeles proper scare you away from the area. From Six Flags Magic Mountain to hiking in Placerita Canyon, this town has a lot to offer its residents.
In the Santa Clarita Valley, you can rent a one-bedroom apartment at The Retreat for a little under $2,300. This complex promotes a relaxing and calm atmosphere, and it’s not surprising. Nestled away in a suburban area, the building offers a pool, which is, believe it or not, hard to find in Southern California. Other amenities include a clubhouse, business center, gym, and sauna.
Located in a quiet suburban neighborhood, this is the perfect spot for someone who wants to be close to the city without living in an urban setting. The building is pet-friendly, and your pups will enjoy a stroll through Circle J Ranch Park, located just across the street. The Retreat is also near Via Princessa, a major street and freeway exit. You’ll be close to endless food and shopping options, while also being close to the highway.
San Fernando Valley
The San Fernando Valley is closer to Los Angeles than Santa Clarita, but it still offers reasonable rent prices. The area includes Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, and San Fernando. Even Calabasas, yes, the city where the Kardashians and other famous folks live, is considered part of the Valley.
There is so much to do in this area. From shopping at the Americana at Brand to a day soaking in the excitement of Universal Studios, there is something for everyone here. If you’re a movie nerd like me, you’ll be thrilled to be near the Warner Brothers and Disney studios.
AVA apartments are a popular chain across the country, with several locations in Southern California. AVA Burbank offers studios and one-bedroom apartments that fall under the $2,300 limit we’ve set. If you’re willing to fork over more cash, you can snag yourself a fully-furnished one.
This building offers a fitness center, balconies or patios, on-site laundry and parking, and is pet-friendly. The Burbank location is located in a central area with close access to freeways. With a Vons walking distance and the adorable community hub of Toluca Lake nearby, this is a wonderful spot to call home.
Hollywood
If Santa Clarita and Burbank are a little too far away from the hustle and bustle of city life, you may be surprised at the quality of rentals you can find for a reasonable price in Hollywood. Sure, the glitz and glam of the city aren’t what they once were, but I live here, and I absolutely love it.
Real city people may enjoy living on Hollywood Boulevard. If you rent a place at the Archer Hollywood, you’re steps away from historic landmarks like the Chinese Theater and the Roosevelt Hotel. From your window, you’ll be able to see the excitement of movie premieres as they shut down the boulevard for press and promotions.
Seeing a movie will be easy, and so will running errands. There is a Target within walking distance, and a tourist shop on every corner where you can snag cold drinks and snacks, no matter what time it is. This is the perfect area for people who love to stay busy and don’t mind dealing with tourists.
You can rent a studio at the Archer for under $1,800 and a one-bedroom for a little over $2,300. This is a central location where the party is within walking distance of your home.
Long Beach
Long Beach is a hidden Southern California gem. When people think of beach towns, they often focus on areas like Santa Monica that are expensive to live in, whether you are renting or not. Long Beach offers wonderful beaches, including one specifically for dogs, with lower rent and a great community.
This Southern California city is home to one of my favorite places, Rosie’s Dog Beach. This spot allows your furry friends to run around and enjoy the water. Many beaches in Southern California do not allow pets; however, this one welcomes them with open arms.
A cool spot to live in the city is Elevate Long Beach. It’s a clean and modern building nestled close to the ocean. For roughly $1,100, you can rent a studio. A one-bedroom apartment lands just over the $2,300 mark.
There is so much to do in Long Beach. From incredible coffee shops to historical fixtures like the Queen Mary, you may be sleeping on a special part of Southern California.
Orange County
Orange County is a big area. Known for its attractions like Disneyland and local sports teams, the Anaheim Ducks and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, you will never be bored. It’s home to some of the best beaches in Southern California and offers a wide range of dining options. What’s not to love?
The one complaint renters may have about the area is the cost of living. The median rent in Orange County is $2,500, which is slightly above the number we’ve set. Don’t worry, there are still options.
Tustin is an underrated gem of Orange County. The fun of the area is just a few stops along the freeway from the town, and it feels quiet and secluded somehow. The quaint downtown is packed with restaurants, shopping, and even a famous tattoo studio.
For $2,300, you can rent a studio or possibly a one-bedroom (depending on availability) at Axiom Tustin. This large, upscale building offers several amenities. From a swimming pool, clubhouse, spa, outdoor lounge, co-working space, to even an on-site area to wash your dog, this is the perfect spot to call home in the Orange County area.
The Inland Empire
When you’re in the Inland Empire, it can feel far removed from the city. However, everything you need is available at your fingertips. There’s an airport in Ontario, and the area is known for many suburban shopping centers.
Riverside is a sprawling area. While some parts have a bad reputation, it isn’t fair to lump the entire city into that category. The area surrounding the University of California, Riverside, offers the feel of a laid-back college town.
Raincross Promenade is a luxury apartment and townhouse building located on Market Street, and not far from Evans Lake and the convention center. For $2,300, you can rent a studio or one-bedroom apartment.
Palm Springs
There is something special about the Southern California desert, and no city does it better than Palm Springs. Rich in history and luxury, this is the perfect place to land for retirees and young people alike.
While it’s an amazing place to vacation, its appeal doesn’t seem to impact rent prices. Palm Springs is the first city on our list where you can rent a two-bedroom apartment for under $2,300. If you aren’t a fan of the cold, high rent prices, and the stress of an urban lifestyle, this might be the area for you.
Canyon Villas Place is just one of a few buildings that offer two-bedroom apartments for roughly $2,200. If you’re looking for a smaller pad, your rent may be under $2,000. If you’re not sold on the price alone, Palm Springs is home to amazing nightlife, and just a short drive to Joshua Tree.
And yes, there is a pool.
San Diego
San Diego is a massive city. Some areas are close to the ocean, while others are more inland. Some are a shorter drive to Mexico than they are to Los Angeles or Orange County. It’s one of my favorite cities in the region.
There is SO much to do here. From the amazing zoo to the incredible restaurants, you’ll never be bored in San Diego. However, finding an affordable place to live can be difficult.
Located in North San Diego, mere miles from the beach, is Hidden Cove apartments. For under $2,300, you can rent a one-bedroom. If you’re willing to go up a little bit in the budget, a two-bedroom is just over our limit.
If sustainability is important to you, the building is proud to be energy-efficient. Most units come with patios or balconies, and the building even has a community dog park! It’s a great area to live in, and the building is renovated, which is a bonus.
