The San Diego Rental Market: A Story of Normalization

In the fast-paced world of California real estate, the question of how quickly a vacant rental unit gets filled is a critical indicator of market health. A recent San Diego Union-Tribune article, "Where are California rentals vacant the longest?" dives into this very question, and the data reveals a fascinating story about the San Diego rental market. While still competitive, our local market is showing signs of normalization, offering a glimmer of hope for renters while still providing a solid foundation for landlords and investors.

The study, which analyzed data from ApartmentList, found that the average vacant rental in San Diego is on the market for 29 days. This is two days faster than a year ago, indicating a slight tightening of the market. However, the most telling statistic is that this is five days longer than the seven-year average. This means that while the market is more competitive than it was in late 2024, it is still not as frenzied as it has been in the recent past. This is a sign of a market that is finding its balance.

Compared to other California cities, San Diego sits comfortably in the middle of the pack. Our 29-day vacancy period is on par with Los Angeles and San Francisco, but significantly less competitive than Sacramento, where units are filled in just 22 days. This data paints a picture of a market that is healthy and active, but not overheated. It is a market where both renters and landlords can find opportunities, without the extreme pressure of a market that is heavily skewed in one direction.

So, what does this mean for you?

For Renters: The news is cautiously optimistic. While you still need to be prepared to act decisively, you have a bit more breathing room than you did in the peak of the market frenzy. A 29-day window means you have roughly a month to find and secure a rental. This is enough time to do your research, visit multiple properties, and make a thoughtful decision without the fear of a unit being snapped up in a matter of hours. The key is to be prepared. Have your financial documents in order, know your budget, and be ready to submit an application when you find the right place. But you can take a deep breath and know that you do not have to make a split-second decision.

For Landlords and Investors: The San Diego rental market remains a strong and stable investment. A vacancy period of less than a month is a sign of a healthy market with consistent demand. While you may not be able to command the same rapid-fire rent increases of the past few years, you can still expect to find qualified tenants in a reasonable amount of time. The key to success in this more balanced market is to offer a quality product. Make sure your property is well-maintained, competitively priced, and offers the amenities that today’s renters are looking for. In a market where tenants have a bit more choice, the best properties will always win.

The story of the San Diego rental market in 2025 is one of normalization. After a period of unprecedented volatility, we are returning to a more sustainable and balanced market. This is good news for everyone. It creates a more predictable environment for investors and a less stressful experience for renters. It is a sign of a mature market that is built on strong fundamentals, not just hype. As your trusted advisors in the San Diego real estate market, we are constantly analyzing these trends to help you make the most informed decisions. Whether you are looking for your next rental, your first investment property, or a partner to manage your real estate portfolio, we are here to help. Visit our website to learn more about the opportunities in this evolving market.

This blog post is an analysis of the article "Where are California rentals vacant the longest?" published by the San Diego Union-Tribune.