Best Affordable Neighborhoods in Oceanside, CA

Some of the cheapest neighborhoods in Oceanside are Loma Alta, Ellerys Loma Alta, and Driftwood Terrace. These neighborhoods offer some of the lowest rent prices in Oceanside, making them ideal for renters on a budget. As of March 17, 2026, the average rent in Oceanside is $2,205, which is 1.7% 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.

Loma Alta

Average Rent

$2,206/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

1.3%

TransitScore® Rating

37/100

Units Available

26 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.

Ellerys Loma Alta

Average Rent

$2,215/Month

TransitScore® Rating

36/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Oceanside, Ellerys Loma Alta might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,215, while the city’s average stands at $2,205. Ellerys Loma Alta is near Guajome County Park, Rancho Guajome Adobe, and CSU San Marcos.

Driftwood Terrace

Average Rent

$2,249/Month

Units Available

12 Rentals

Driftwood Terrace is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Driftwood Terrace is $2,249 while the city average is $2,205. Residents enjoy convenient access to Primo Thunder Market, Rancho Guajome Adobe, and College Plaza.

North Valley

Average Rent

$2,297/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

7.2%

TransitScore® Rating

31/100

Units Available

16 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.

El Camino Estates

Average Rent

$2,303/Month

Units Available

24 Rentals

When you’re looking for a great Oceanside neighborhood on a budget, check out El Camino Estates. The average rent is $2,303, compared to the city average of $2,205. El Camino Estates is convenient to USAHS, Rancho Guajome Adobe, and Crouch Street.

Mira Costa

Average Rent

$2,310/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

4.4%

TransitScore® Rating

36/100

Units Available

43 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.

Rancho Tuscana

Average Rent

$2,336/Month

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

Rancho Tuscana is an affordable neighborhood in Oceanside with an average rent price of $2,336. Compare this to the city average of $2,205. Rancho Tuscana provides easy access to San Diego International, Melrose, and USAHS. It’s a somewhat walkable neighborhood with a WalkScore® of 61.

San Luis Rey

Average Rent

$2,400/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

2.9%

TransitScore® Rating

34/100

Units Available

40 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.

Peacock

Average Rent

$2,437/Month

Year-Over-Year Rent Change

0.7%

TransitScore® Rating

31/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

If you’re looking for a great, affordable neighborhood in Oceanside, Peacock might be the perfect place! It has an average rent price of $2,437, while the city’s average stands at $2,205. In the last year, prices have increased by 0.7%. Peacock is near College Boulevard, Oceanside Square Shopping Center, and Agua Hedionda Lagoon Discovery Center.

Guajome Park Estates

Average Rent

$2,437/Month

TransitScore® Rating

30/100

Units Available

10 Rentals

Guajome Park Estates is a top choice for budget-conscious renters for a variety of reasons. The average rent in Guajome Park Estates is $2,437 while the city average is $2,205. Residents enjoy convenient access to USAHS, Santa Fe Crossroads, and Guajome County Park. The neighborhood is considered car-dependent with a WalkScore® of 11.

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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.