North County’s Newest Gem: A Look Inside San Diego’s Largest New Apartment Complex
When you think of major new real estate developments in San Diego County, your mind might immediately go to the bustling downtown area or the coastal communities. But the largest apartment complex to open in 2025 is taking center stage in a different location: San Marcos. The new 222 North City development, with its impressive 458 units, is a game-changer for North County and a sign of the region’s growing appeal.
As real estate professionals, we are always on the lookout for developments that signal a shift in the market. The opening of 222 North City is a significant event, and in this post, we’ll take you inside this remarkable new community and explore what it means for the future of North County real estate.
A New Downtown for North County
222 North City is the latest addition to the ambitious North City masterplan, a $1 billion development project aimed at creating a vibrant, walkable downtown for North San Diego County. Located next to California State University San Marcos, this community is designed to be a hub of activity, with a mix of residential, commercial, and retail spaces.
The 12-story building is one of the tallest in the region and offers a wide range of living options, from studios to four-bedroom penthouses. With 72 different floor plans, there is something for everyone at 222 North City.
A Glimpse of the Lifestyle
The development boasts an impressive array of amenities designed to cater to a modern, active lifestyle. Residents will enjoy:
•A resort-style pool and two hot tubs
•A two-story gym operated by Fit Athletic
•Co-working spaces and resident lounges
•A game room with a ping pong and pool table
•Two fourth-floor resident pavilions connected by a bridge
In addition to the on-site amenities, the surrounding North City area offers a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, all within walking distance.
Rental Rates
Here is a look at the average monthly rental rates at 222 North City, according to real estate tracker CoStar :
Unit Type
Average Monthly Rent
Studio
$2,768
One-Bedroom
$3,166
Two-Bedroom
$4,556
Three-Bedroom/Penthouse
Starting at $5,800
While these prices are higher than the San Diego County average, they are competitive with other high-end developments in the area, such as One Paseo in Carmel Valley .
What This Means for the North County Market
The opening of 222 North City is a strong indicator of the growing demand for high-quality rental housing in North County. The project’s success in pre-leasing nearly 10% of its units before even opening its doors shows that there is a significant market for this type of lifestyle-oriented development.
For real estate investors, this signals a promising opportunity. The continued growth of North County, fueled by major employers like CSU San Marcos and the new Scripps hospital currently under construction, is likely to drive continued demand for rental properties.
For those considering a move to North County, 222 North City offers a compelling option. It provides a level of urban living that has not previously been available in the area, with the convenience of a walkable community and easy access to public transportation.
The Future of San Diego Real Estate
The development of communities like North City is a sign of the changing face of San Diego County. As our region continues to grow, we are seeing a greater emphasis on creating vibrant, mixed-use communities that offer a high quality of life.
As your trusted San Diego real estate experts, we are excited to see this evolution and are here to help you navigate the opportunities it presents. Whether you are looking to invest in the growing North County market or find your perfect home in one of our region’s many unique communities, we are here to guide you.