Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Oceanside are Loma Alta, Driftwood Terrace, and San Luis Rey. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Oceanside, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of January 31, 2026, the average rent in Oceanside is $2,198, which is 2.1% 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.

Loma Alta

Average Rent

$2,144/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.4%

TransitScore® Rating

37/100

Units Available

21 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.

Driftwood Terrace

Average Rent

$2,217/Month

Units Available

11 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Oceanside neighborhood on a budget, check out Driftwood Terrace. The average rent is $2,217, compared to the city average of $2,198. Driftwood Terrace is convenient to San Diego International, Guajome County Park, and MiraCosta College, Oceanside.

San Luis Rey

Average Rent

$2,285/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

46 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.

El Camino Estates

Average Rent

$2,362/Month

Units Available

21 Rentals

El Camino Estates is an affordable neighborhood in Oceanside with an average rent price of $2,362. Compare this to the city average of $2,198. El Camino Estates provides easy access to Guajome County Park, Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center, and Carlsbad State Beach.

Ivey Ranch-Rancho Del Oro

Average Rent

$2,367/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.5%

TransitScore® Rating

36/100

Units Available

28 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.

Mira Costa

Average Rent

$2,372/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.5%

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.

Oceana Mission

Average Rent

$2,374/Month

TransitScore® Rating

31/100

Units Available

23 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Oceanside, Oceana Mission might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,374, while the city’s average stands at $2,198. Oceana Mission is near Plaza Del Oro, Carlsbad State Beach, and Old Grove Marketplace.

East Side Capistrano

Average Rent

$2,382/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.1%

TransitScore® Rating

33/100

Units Available

10 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.

Mission Hermosa

Average Rent

$2,405/Month

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

Mission Hermosa is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Mission Hermosa is $2,405 while the city average is $2,198. Residents enjoy convenient access to Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center, El Camino Real, and MiraCosta College, Oceanside. The neighborhood is considered somewhat walkable with a WalkScore® of 50.

Canyon Vista

Average Rent

$2,405/Month

TransitScore® Rating

30/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Oceanside neighborhood on a budget, check out Canyon Vista. The average rent is $2,405, compared to the city average of $2,198. Canyon Vista is convenient to Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center, Crouch Street, and Melrose. The community is car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 36.

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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.