Mission Valley’s Rental Market (92108) in 2025

Key Takeaways

• Average rental prices in Mission Valley have increased to $3,320 while showing a 2.5% yearly growth.
• Two-bedroom rentals dominate the market, making up 48% of all recent listings.
• Young professionals together with students constitute the main market segment for studio and one-bedroom units.
• The rental prices of 4-bedroom single-family homes experienced the greatest yearly decrease at −15% YoY because of affordability restrictions.
• The best way to generate maximum returns involves using mid-sized apartments with furniture and properties situated near transit stations.

Mission Valley Housing Market Overview

Mission Valley is a central San Diego district which unites residential areas with shopping centers and public transportation. The 92108 rental market has become one of San Diego County's most competitive due to its central location along with continuous population growth.

According to the latest RentCast report (August 2025), the average rent in Mission Valley now stands at $3,320, reflecting a 2.5% increase over the past year. Mission Valley maintains its expensive status compared to East County neighborhoods yet its diverse population of professionals and families and students keeps up steady property demand.

Current Rental Prices by Unit Type

• Studios: $2,490 (−0.4% YoY)
• 1 Bedroom: $2,840 (+1.4% YoY)
• 2 Bedroom: $3,520 (+0.9% YoY)
• 3 Bedroom: $4,820 (+4.1% YoY)
• 4 Bedroom: $6,510 (−15% YoY)

Studio and one-bedroom rentals maintain stable occupancy rates because students, single professionals, and young couples show ongoing interest in these smaller units. Two-bedroom units represent the dominant type with 407 active listings making up 48% of total inventory. The demand for 4-bedroom properties is limited by affordability factors which led to substantial annual price drops.

Rental Trend Summary

• 3-Month Change: +3.4%
• 6-Month Change: +0.9%
• 1-Year Change: +2.5%
• 2-Year Change: +0.6%

The consistent rental market conditions in Mission Valley demonstrate its resistance against other San Diego submarkets that show rapid decline. The rental market demonstrates characteristics of continuous development instead of sudden peaks.

Market Composition: Where Tenants Are Renting

• Studios: 5% (38 listings)
• 1 Bedroom: 40% (333 listings)
• 2 Bedroom: 48% (407 listings)
• 3 Bedroom: 7% (57 listings)
• 4 Bedroom: 1% (7 listings)

The current market shows intense competition for one-bedroom and two-bedroom rentals because renters prioritize living near their employment centers and schools and want to enjoy affordable housing.

Why Mission Valley Appeals to Renters

• Central Location: Quick access to freeways and trolley lines connecting downtown, universities, and employment hubs.
• Lifestyle Amenities: Proximity to Fashion Valley and Mission Valley malls, restaurants, and entertainment.
• New Development: Ongoing investment in mixed-use and residential projects keeps housing modern and appealing.
• Education & Employment: Close to San Diego State University, healthcare facilities, and downtown job centers, driving strong rental demand.

Opportunities for Investors

• The rental market shows its highest demand and fastest leasing rates for properties with 1–2 bedrooms.
• Mid-Market Pricing: Keeping rents competitive ensures quick absorption in a high-inventory market.
• Furnished rentals can command higher income from transient student and professional populations.
• New construction with modern amenities and energy-efficient designs attracts tenants willing to pay above-market rates.

Challenges to Anticipate

• Affordability Ceilings: Larger units (3–4 bedrooms) face reduced demand at higher price points.
• Market Competition: Nearly 850 active listings require professional marketing to stand out.
• Tenant Turnover: Younger renter demographics lead to shorter lease durations and more frequent moves.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego County rental market continues to find Mission Valley (92108) as its prime location because of steady growth together with solid mid-sized unit rental demand and constant returns for property owners. One- and two-bedroom apartments remain the safest and most profitable investments. Mission Valley borders San Diego, La Mesa, Downtown San Diego, and Hillcrest.

Property managers should focus on competitive pricing, proactive tenant screening, and flexible leasing strategies to optimize occupancy rates and maximize cash flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the average rent in Mission Valley (92108) in 2025?

The average rent is $3,320, reflecting a 2.5% year-over-year increase.

Q2: Which unit types are most in demand?

The rental market consists mainly of one- and two-bedroom apartments which represent approximately 90% of all active listings.

Q3: Are large single-family rentals profitable in Mission Valley?

The 4-bedroom rental market has seen a 15% decrease in popularity due to affordability challenges even though these units could generate higher rent amounts.

Q4: How many rentals were listed recently in Mission Valley?

Two-bedroom apartments make up 48% of the 842 recent rental listings in Mission Valley during the past month.

Q5: Is Mission Valley a good market for property investors?

Yes. The combination of its central position with new developments and strong rental interest makes Mission Valley an attractive location for investors who focus on apartment buildings and mid-sized properties.