Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA
Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Oceanside are North Valley, Loma Alta, and Costa Serena. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Oceanside, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of September 25, 2025, the average rent in Oceanside is $2,173, which is 0.7% higher than last year. However, it's important to remember that rental prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, amenities, and floor plans.
North Valley
Average Rent
$2,176/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
2.4%
TransitScore® Rating
31/100
Units Available
17 Rentals
North Valley offers a variety of housing options and easy access to parks and schools. A key attraction is the Mission Marketplace, a large shopping center with a variety of retail and dining options. Renters will appreciate the suburban feel and proximity to major shopping centers.
Loma Alta
Average Rent
$2,185/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1%
TransitScore® Rating
37/100
Units Available
41 Rentals
Loma Alta is a peaceful neighborhood known for its hilltop views and proximity to Buddy Todd Park. A key attraction is the Oceanside Pier, a popular spot for fishing and sightseeing. Renters will enjoy the suburban feel with easy access to shopping, dining, and the beach.
Costa Serena
Average Rent
$2,286/Month
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
10 Rentals
Costa Serena is an affordable neighborhood in Oceanside with an average rent price of $2,286. Compare this to the city average of $2,173. Costa Serena provides easy access to Melrose, Home Depot Square, and College Boulevard. It’s a car-dependent neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 24.
East Side Capistrano
Average Rent
$2,309/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.9%
TransitScore® Rating
33/100
Units Available
12 Rentals
East Side Capistrano showcases affordable housing and proximity to local parks and schools. A key attraction is the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a historic mission and museum. Renters will appreciate the quiet streets and easy access to shopping and dining.
El Camino Estates
Average Rent
$2,316/Month
Units Available
16 Rentals
If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Oceanside, El Camino Estates might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,316, while the city’s average stands at $2,173. El Camino Estates is near Rancho Guajome Adobe, Buena Vista Audubon Nature Center, and Coast Highway.
Rancho Tuscana
Average Rent
$2,354/Month
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
17 Rentals
Rancho Tuscana is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Rancho Tuscana is $2,354 while the city average is $2,173. Residents enjoy convenient access to CSU San Marcos, USAHS, and Rancho Guajome Adobe. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 61.
Mira Costa
Average Rent
$2,356/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.7%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
40 Rentals
Mira Costa is a neighborhood known for its proximity to MiraCosta College and local shopping centers. A key attraction is the MiraCosta College Botanic Garden, a beautiful spot for plant enthusiasts. All in all Mira Costa is ideal for any renter, but especially ones who love the outdoors.
San Luis Rey
Average Rent
$2,419/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
3.6%
TransitScore® Rating
34/100
Units Available
35 Rentals
San Luis Rey provides scenic neighborhood located near the San Luis Rey River, offering access to walking trails and outdoor activities. A key attraction is the Mission San Luis Rey, a historic mission museum. Renters will appreciate the quiet environment and proximity to local shopping and schools.
Driftwood Terrace
Average Rent
$2,419/Month
Units Available
13 Rentals
When you’re looking for a great Oceanside neighborhood on a budget, check out Driftwood Terrace. The average rent is $2,419, compared to the city average of $2,173. Driftwood Terrace is convenient to College Plaza, College Boulevard, and Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center.
Ivey Ranch-Rancho Del Oro
Average Rent
$2,448/Month
Year-Over-Year Rent Change
1.5%
TransitScore® Rating
36/100
Units Available
18 Rentals
Ivey Ranch-Rancho Del Oro is a master-planned community offering modern homes, parks, and access to top-rated schools. A key attraction is the El Corazon Park, a large recreational area with sports fields. Renters will enjoy the peaceful environment and proximity to shopping and dining.
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Methodology
Transit Score measures access to public transit. Scores range from 0 (minimal transit) to 100 (rider’s paradise). Learn more about the Transit Score methodology. Rental data is sourced from CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As a leading authority in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar performs in-depth research to build and sustain an extensive database of commercial real estate insights.
We've combined this data with public records to provide the most current rental information available.