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San Marcos, CA Homes for Rent

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    $4,200 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 3.5 Baths
    • 2,190 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    477 Prosperity Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Gorgeous upgraded 4 bedroom / 3.5 bathroom townhome available for lease starting July 1, 2026 in the quaint, desirable community of Mission Grove. This home is immaculate featuring granite countertops, white cabinets, barn door, and beautiful laminate flooring. Desirable floorplan with a full bed and bath on first floor, primary en suite room & bath and two additional rooms and full hall bath on

    Agent Photo

    Kim Babcock

    Real Brokerage Technologies

    (442) 449-0085

    477 Prosperity Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,350 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    601 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92078

    We ensure beautiful landscaping is around our sparkling swimming pool, play area, and clubhouse for you to enjoy. Our community features an HD theater room and a business center for convenience. We offer a state-of-the-art fitness center with spin and Zumba classes, cooking classes, and a tennis court for our fitness enthusiasts! We have assigned parking and ample guest parking, so contact us

    Prominence Apartments

    (760) 334-6360

    601 S Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    $2,900 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,100 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1412 Pine Heights Way, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Single-family residence, very quiet, and private area. single-story home in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in San Marcos! This inviting home features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a separate laundry room. One room has an extension that you can add a bed to and use it as a third room. Large lot with plenty of room for outdoor entertaining, gardening, or

    Agent Photo

    Parviz Oshideri

    Pro/Max Realty

    (442) 255-7181

    1412 Pine Heights Way, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,334

    Total Monthly Price

    • Studio - 4 Beds

    222 N City Dr, San Marcos, CA 92096

    Set within the heart of San Marcos' most visionary neighborhood, 222 North City offers proximity and presence. Streets lead to chef-driven dining, curated retails, and spaces designed for connection and ease. Every detail reflects a lifestyle shaped by taste, discernment, and a desire to live exceptionally. For those who seek more of where they live, this is the address that delivers. Greystar

    222 North City

    (760) 916-7699

    222 N City Dr, San Marcos, CA 92096
  • /41

    Starting at $2,375

    Total Monthly Price

    • Studio - 3 Beds

    1257 Armorlite Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Located in San Marcos, Palomar Station is a community of modern apartments coupled with unique amenities such as resort-style pools, a high-performance fitness center, and beautiful outdoor spaces to entertain or unwind. Each apartment home is refined with designer finishes, sleek fixtures, gourmet kitchens, quartz countertops, high ceilings, spacious closets, and much more. Located near the

    Palomar Station

    (442) 777-6245

    1257 Armorlite Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,083

    Total Monthly Price

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    852 Avenida Ricardo, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Life just keeps getting better, doesn't it? And Overture San Marcos is the perfect place to live it. A welcoming 55+ community filled with intriguing people and countless ways to get to spend your time. A gorgeous apartment home, with resort-inspired amenities and services focused on you. A location just a few miles from San Marcos's 16 public parks complete with walking trails and just blocks

    Overture San Marcos 55+ Senior Housing Apartment Homes

    (858) 753-4018

    852 Avenida Ricardo, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /16

    Starting at $2,300 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    715 Ash Ln, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Nestled on a terraced hillside above San Marcos, Tuscany Hills offers the privacy of a country home with the advantage of city conveniences. You'll find shopping, schools, the Marketplace, Palomar College, California State San Marcos (CSUSM), University of St. Augustine, Twin Oaks Valley Ranch Golf Course, and easy freeway access. Residents are neighbors to the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean and

    Tuscany Hills Apartments

    (442) 291-7096

    715 Ash Ln, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,445 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    420 Smilax Rd, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Comfort meets contemporary in every apartment, from one- and two-bedroom homes with vaulted ceilings, gas kitchens, and private balconies, to three-bedroom homes with landscaped backyards. Enjoy a sparkling pool, relaxing spas, picnic areas with BBQ stations, and pet-friendly living. Nestled near Highway 78, Elan Northwoods in San Marcos, CA, puts attractions and cultural experiences within easy

    Elan Northwoods

    (442) 248-4191

    420 Smilax Rd, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $2,600 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    506 E Barham Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Wonderful One Bedroom Available Now! -(RLNE6468411)

    The Avenue at San Marcos

    (442) 245-5911

    506 E Barham Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $2,655 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    570 E Barham Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078

    The unrivaled experience at Barham Villas Apartment Homes begins with a private tour of our refined, tasteful apartments nestled in the heart of our pet-friendly community. As soon as you set foot on our grounds, before even stepping through the doorframe of your next home, you will be wrapped in the comforts and amenities our neighbors value and cherish.

    Barham Villas

    (760) 571-2412

    570 E Barham Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $3,225 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    1635 Creek St, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Welcome to Virano Apartments in San Marcos, where luxury meets serenity in our brand new community. Featuring 1 to 3 bedroom apartments, including double height ground floor lofts, with breathtaking views. Enjoy premium finishes, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and luxury vinyl plank flooring. Experience exceptional amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center with an

    Virano Apartments

    (760) 973-5109

    1635 Creek St, San Marcos, CA 92078
  • /35

    Starting at $2,400 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    240-258 Las Flores Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Vista Flores is a charming apartment community centrally located in the vibrant city of San Marcos, California offering a family friendly atmosphere that is reasonably priced and well cared for. We are just minutes away from the beautiful Pacific Ocean, many recreational choices and exceptional educational opportunities including Palomar College and California State University San Marcos. Vista

    Vista Flores Apartments

    (442) 245-3718

    240-258 Las Flores Dr, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /35

    Starting at $2,135 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    3474 Descanso Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Experience the beauty and tranquility at Meadowcreek Apartments. Conveniently located in the beautiful City of San Marcos, California. Where shopping, schools, colleges, and dining are only minutes away. We are about 20 minutes away from the beautiful Pacific Ocean, many recreational choices and exceptional educational opportunities including Palomar College and California State University San

    Meadow Creek Apartments

    (760) 642-1725

    3474 Descanso Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $2,575 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    975 Woodland Pkwy, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Woodland Village 55+ Apartments offers active, independent seniors over the age of 55 a warm and welcoming community with a full calendar of social activities. Designed for active adults, our community features modern 1- and 2-bedroom apartments for rent in San Marcos, CA located at 975 Woodland Parkway in the convenient 92069 zip code. Complete with in unit washer/dryers, air conditioning, fully

    Woodland Village Senior Apartments

    (760) 466-6484

    975 Woodland Pkwy, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    $7,900

    Total Monthly Price

    • 4 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,550 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1499 La Linda Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Rare, lakefront living on beautiful Lake San Marcos in San Diego. This 4 bedroom 2 and 1/2 bath, newly remodeled home is available for the discerning renter. The property has the best lake and sunset views, a private dock, access to a community pool and putting green, and all the Lakehouse resort amenities. New appliances, countertops, AC, lighting, flooring and paint add to the comfort of this

    1499 La Linda Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $2,325 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    823 Nordahl Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Located outside San Diego in San Marcos, eaves San Marcos is an Avalon community with convenient shopping, Restaurant Row and colleges nearby. Easy access to major highways including 15 and 78 and a short drive to some of the area’s best beaches. eaves San Marcos apartments feature updated kitchens with stainless steel appliances in select homes, updated baths with modern finishes in select

    eaves San Marcos

    (760) 359-9624

    823 Nordahl Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /35

    Starting at $2,134

    Total Monthly Price

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    650 Woodward St, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Discover Royal Oaks in San Marcos, where every day is an adventure. Enjoy stunning views, engaging social activities, and spacious one- or two-bedroom apartment homes. Start your mornings in our cozy Bistro or library, and embrace the fun with games, fitness, and social events. Your life at Royal Oaks is full, satisfying, and unforgettable. Come for a tour and see why we're the talk of the

    Royal Oaks 55+ Senior Apartment Community

    (858) 367-0962

    650 Woodward St, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /35

    Starting at $3,763

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 - 3 Beds

    152 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Fresh, open floor plans ranging from 1,235 to 1,486 square feet of interior living space. Each Anden townhome will include attractive interior features, such as quartz countertops, oversized deck spaces and a two-car side-by-side garage with additional storage. Residents will enjoy summer BBQs and year-round get together with friends and family at the Anden recreation area which features a large

    Anden

    (442) 281-9668

    152 N Twin Oaks Valley Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /35

    $3,149 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • 300 Sq Ft
    • Furnished Studio-San Marcos

    1480 Grand Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can

    Furnished Studio-San Marcos

    (442) 248-3346

    1480 Grand Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078
  • /20

    Starting at $2,150 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    353 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Benchmark Apartments is located at 353 West San Marcos Blvd San Marcos, CA and is managed by CTM Apartment Services Corporation, a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. Benchmark Apartments offers 1 to 2 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 800 to 1100 sq.ft. Amenities include Controlled Access/Gated, Courtyard, Covered Parking, Laundry Facilities, Night

    Benchmark Apartments

    (858) 779-2604

    353 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /20

    Starting at $2,459 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    616 Richmar Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Available now! Alora Apartments features Air Conditioning for year-round comfort and a private balcony with extra storage. Kitchens come equipped with a refrigerator, stove w/ oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Laundry facilities in-building. Assigned parking space(s). Security deposit is equal to first month's rent.Income qualifications:Min = 1.5x rentMax = 80% AMI

    Alora Apartments

    (760) 891-5321

    616 Richmar Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,424 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    600 W Richmar Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Available now! Estrella Apartments features Air Conditioning for year-round comfort and a private balcony with extra storage. Kitchens come equipped with a refrigerator, stove w/ oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Laundry facilities in-building. Assigned parking space(s). Security deposit is equal to first month's rent.Income qualifications:Min = 1.5x rentMax = 80% AMI

    Estrella

    (866) 531-9468

    600 W Richmar Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    Starting at $2,400 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    240-248 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Welcome to The Palms Apartments! Excellent location close to restaurants, shopping and California State University San Marcos. Easy access to 78 and 15 freeways. San Marcos houses California State University San Marcos and Palomar College, and the city is known for its renowned public schools in the San Marcos Unified School District. If you’re commuting to nearby cities for work, such as San

    The Palms

    (760) 653-5992

    240-248 W San Marcos Blvd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /20

    Starting at $1,700 Per Month

    • Studio - 3 Beds

    16 Creekside Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Eastgate

    (760) 621-9405

    16 Creekside Dr, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    Starting at $1,557 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    1607 Grandon Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Grandon Village, is an affordable 55+ senior multi-family community located in in the heart of San Marcos, CA offering 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes. Here, you can take part in community events at our senior center, take a dip in our sparkling swimming pool or unwind on a walk on the artistically-landscaped grounds. Located just 20 minutes from Southern California's world renowned beaches,

    Grandon Village

    (760) 539-8980

    1607 Grandon Ave, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    $2,675 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 875 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    320 Smilax Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 238918Bring your Pets to Coral Tree Manor!We are conveniently located to public transportation, shopping centers, minutes away from 15/76/78 freeways, the beach, schools and local entertainment/restaurants.Schedule a showing!Coral Tree Manor320 Smilax RdSan Marcos, CA 92069Office HoursMonday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pmSaturday

    (760) 509-1449

    320 Smilax Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    $2,650 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 780 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    269 W San Marcos Blvd Unit 14, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 2557057Beautifully upgraded 2 Bed | 1 Bath apartment in a prime location near freeways, shopping & entertainment.Live where comfort meets convenience.Office hours:Monday - Friday 9am-5pmSaturday by Appointment OnlyOffice Address:305 W San Marcos BlvdSan Marcos, CA, 92069Office Number:Features:(2 Bedroom, 1

    (760) 682-7955

    269 W San Marcos Blvd Unit 14, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    $1,500 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,800 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1134 Adele Ln, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Property Id: 1038628Move in with just your suitcase! Private furnished bedroom available in a beautifully renovated modern farmhouse located in a quiet gated community near Cal State San Marcos.Perfect for CSUSM students, graduate students, healthcare professionals, remote workers, and young professionals.Included:• Queen bed & furnished room• Utilities +

    (858) 779-2291

    1134 Adele Ln, San Marcos, CA 92078
  • /13

    $2,650 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 780 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    305 W San Marcos Blvd Unit 92, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 2587748Beautifully upgraded 2 Bed | 1 Bath apartment in a prime location near freeways, shopping & entertainment.Live where comfort meets convenience.Office hours:Monday - Friday 9am-5pmSaturday by Appointment OnlyOffice Address:305 W San Marcos BlvdSan Marcos, CA, 92069Office Number:Features:(2 Bedroom, 1

    (760) 539-8524

    305 W San Marcos Blvd Unit 92, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /19

    $3,565 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,551 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    443 Fitzpatrick Rd Unit 102-B1, San Marcos, CA 92069

    SPLIT THE PAYMENT! Reserve your new home by paying 50% of your security deposit now, with the remaining balance due before move-in.Welcome to 443 Fitzpatrick Road Unit 102-B1, a stunning multi-level townhome offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 1,551 square feet of beautifully designed modern living space. Nestled within the highly desirable, gated Viewpointe Commons community in San

    (760) 891-4953

    443 Fitzpatrick Rd Unit 102-B1, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /10

    $2,575 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 776 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    343 Autumn Dr Unit 209, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 2471827$2,575 | Month-to-Month Lease | $1,100 Deposit OACDiscover your new home in the heart of San Marcos, where comfort, convenience, and community come together! This spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment is located in a prime area near shopping, dining, entertainment, top-rated schools, and easy freeway access—making your daily commute and lifestyle a

    (760) 759-6514

    343 Autumn Dr Unit 209, San Marcos, CA 92069
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    $3,800 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,100 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    842 Via Bella Donna, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Welcome to this charming 4-bedroom, 1-bath single-family home located in beautiful San Marcos, California. Spanning 1,100 square feet, this well-maintained home offers two assigned parking spaces and plenty of comfort and functionality. The property includes a separate ADU with its own private entrance and backyard, currently used by the owner.The backyard has beautiful views of the hills

    (442) 204-1568

    842 Via Bella Donna, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    $4,500 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,030 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    1560 Circa Del Lago Unit d304, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Welcome to your new home in San Marcos, CA! This inviting property is perfectly situated in a vibrant neighborhood, offering you access to an array of nearby conveniences. You'll find several great restaurants and department stores within reach, making everyday errands and dining out a breeze. Plus, the Palomar Medical Center Escondido is just a 15-minute drive away, providing peace of mind for

    (760) 334-5754

    1560 Circa Del Lago Unit d304, San Marcos, CA 92078
  • /10

    $2,575 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 776 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    343 Autumn Dr Unit 214, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 2531211Discover your new home in the heart of San Marcos, where comfort, convenience, and community come together! This spacious 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment is located in a prime area near shopping, dining, entertainment, top-rated schools, and easy freeway access—making your daily commute and lifestyle a breeze.Enjoy the peace of mind of living in a gated community under

    (760) 571-8770

    343 Autumn Dr Unit 214, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /8

    $895 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 150 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    10 W Borden Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 1778580Spacious unfurnished room available in a beautiful 3,200+ sq ft owner-occupied home in the Santa Fe Estates area of San Marcos. Conveniently located near Palomar College, CSUSM, shopping, restaurants, trails, and major freeways. Utilities and high speed WIFI included.Neighborhood pool and community amenity access included with room rental.This is a quiet,

    (760) 539-8561

    10 W Borden Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /20

    $3,222 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,086 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    1643 Rue de Valle, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Property Id: 2243840Welcome to your perfectly located home in an Unbeatable location in beautiful San Marcos! Quietly situated into a park like Community directly between Bradley Bike Park and San Marcos High School. Just a short walk to weekend Sports, local trails and Top-tier Schools, all while maintaining Rapid Access to 78 Freeway, Palomar Collage and the CSUSM California State

    (760) 670-2818

    1643 Rue de Valle, San Marcos, CA 92078
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    $2,675 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 875 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    300 Smilax Rd Unit 11, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Property Id: 1796723Looking for a great community to call home? Your perfect apartment home awaits! Location: 320 Smilax Road San Marcos CA 92069 Rent: $2,675 per month (Water Trash and Sewer Included) Lease Term: Month to Month Lease Option Water Trash and Sewer Included Animal-Friendly: Yes!Features &

    (442) 245-3836

    300 Smilax Rd Unit 11, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /20

    $3,700 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,200 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    1001 La Pluma Ct, San Marcos, CA 92078

    Property Id: 1333874Stunning Lake San Marcos Townhome!Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom ground-level end-unit townhome in the heart of Lake San Marcos! Enjoy breathtaking panoramic mountain and sunrise views from your home while being just minutes from top-rated schools, dining, shopping, and outdoor activities.FEATURES:Completely remodeled

    (858) 251-6992

    1001 La Pluma Ct, San Marcos, CA 92078
  • /20

    $3,495 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,331 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    343 Mission Villas Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Welcome to the charming residence at 343 Mission Villas Road, a delightful 1,331-square-foot home featuring 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. The interior boasts an open floor plan illuminated by large windows that create a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the living spaces. At the heart of the home, the well-equipped kitchen serves as a functional masterpiece with its spacious countertops,

    (760) 539-8625

    343 Mission Villas Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069
  • /5

    $3,400

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,140 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    789 Dorothea Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069

    Newly appointed kitchen close to both elementary and junior high school, as well as high school Friendly neighborhoodCan be driven by prior to June 1 viewing to be scheduled after June one potential move in June 7 or eighth con contact owner for details do not bother tenants tenants. lease is for a one year term. Parking includes two car garage and up to two vehicles on the street can be

    789 Dorothea Ave, San Marcos, CA 92069

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Why Live in San Marcos

San Marcos, California, spans 24 square miles in San Diego's North County, transitioning from former dairy fields to a thriving city known for education and recreation. The city is home to California State University San Marcos, which has significantly expanded over the past 25 years. San Marcos is recognized as one of California's fastest-growing cities and among the top 25 best places to live for families, thanks to its mild climate, award-winning communities, and extensive hiking trails. Residential options range from mobile home communities and luxury golf-course homes to master-planned developments and new builds in the emerging North City area. Architectural styles include Spanish, Mediterranean, modern farmhouse, and contemporary designs. The San Marcos Unified School District is highly rated, and eligible graduates are guaranteed admission to CSUSM. The city boasts numerous attractions, including 24 community parks, 13 neighborhood parks, and over 60 miles of biking, hiking, and equestrian trails. Walnut Grove Equestrian Park and the new Bradley Bike Park are popular spots, while the revitalized Old California Restaurant Row offers outdoor dining and public art. Commercial plazas like Nordahl Marketplace and Grand Plaza provide convenient shopping and dining options. The SPRINTER rail connects San Marcos to nearby cities, and major highways offer access to downtown San Diego and the airport within 35 miles. The city hosts annual events like the San Marcos Harvest Festival and Horse Heritage Festival, celebrating local culture and community.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in San Marcos, CA?
The median rent for a home in San Marcos, CA is $3,495 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of June 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in San Marcos, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in San Marcos, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $139,800 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $3,495 per month in San Marcos, CA, renters typically need to show $10,485 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in San Marcos, CA?
In San Marcos, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 20.9, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in San Marcos, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in San Marcos, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Barham Discovery Community, Palomar Estates, Country Club, La Costa and Rancho Carrillo, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Trends in San Marcos, CA

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
82
Median Rent
$3,495
Median Single Family Home Rent
$4,500
Median Townhouse Rent
$3,713
Median Condo Rent
$3,360
How to Rent a Home