Apartments for Rent in El Cajon, CA(959 Rentals)

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El Cajon, CA Local Guide

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Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

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El Cajon Overview

Playfully referred to as 'The Big Box', El Cajon is located in the heart of San Diego County, a growing popular hotspot in sunny California. From epic weather and cuisine, to an eclectic body population and sound economic base, this west coast city is in-demand for good cause.

What is the history of El Cajon?

Incorporated officially in 1912, El Cajon found its place in the state as a center for agriculture, especially grape and citrus crops. In the 1960s the area grew in fame thanks to the addition of the theme park known as Frontier Town, a western-styled entertainment center complete with staged shoot outs in the street. The popular attraction closed in the 1980s, and the structures currently act as housing for many in the city.

How is the weather in El Cajon?

California is known across the globe for its amazing weather, and those living in El Cajon apartments will enjoy sunny skies and pleasant temperatures throughout much of the year. Winter rarely drops below freezing, and though rains may accompany the spring months, the clouds rarely stick around in this ideal locale.

How do I get around town?

Most residents calling apartments in El Cajon home rely upon at least one or sometimes two personal vehicles for day-to-day transportation. San Diego proper is home to the largest commercial airport in the region, although Gillespie Field acts as a landing spot for smaller aircraft in the city. Bus service is available in some capacity as well.

What is the El Cajon commute like?

Traffic flow in the city proper is easy moving, although those commuting to the larger job market of San Diego and beyond may experience typical 9-to-5 delays on the daily. Interstate 8 is far and away the most used roadway, although Route 67 covers much of the northern tier of El Cajon as well.

What are the local media outlets?

The San Diego Union Tribune is a widely-read news source in the city, as is the East County Californian. Most major television networks are available to El Cajon apartments thanks to their proximity to San Diego and its various affiliates, and radio in the city is plentiful as well, a diverse mix of classic rock, top 40 and Tejano.

Why live in El Cajon, CA?

Home to a wide array of popular universities as well as boasting plenty of that famous California sunshine to spare, El Cajon apartments are wildly popular among working-class families and on-the-go young professionals alike. From scenic mountains to the nearby coastline, this beautiful slice of the west coast has much to offer a variety of lifestyles, and its unsurprising that rentals remain in-demand consistently.

What El Cajon landmarks should I see?

Summers Past Farms is an excellent spot to spend a sunny weekend afternoon, complete with horses and hayrides, or stroll the grounds of Cuyamaca College, home to both a Butterfly Garden as well as the famed Water Conservation Garden. The Mar Abba Seminary is also a notable spot of quiet reflection popular with the locals.

What is there to do around El Cajon?

Grab some friends and spend an afternoon hunting for bargains at the Parkway Plaza Mall, or try your luck at the tables of the Sycuan Casino, both located just a hop and a jump from numerous El Cajon apartments for rent. Enjoy some traditional Middle Eastern cuisine with a visit to Ali Babba's, or dance the night away at La Fiesta. The options are seemingly limitless when it comes to El Cajon nightlife!

Any annual festivals or El Cajon events to know?

Every May sees the return of America On Main Street, a festival which celebrates cultural diversity in the city. Thanksgiving brings with it the hugely popular Mother Goose Parade, which comes complete with live music, giant helium balloons and plenty of motorized floats through the streets of El Cajon. Numerous food and jazz festivals dot the city calendar each year as well.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

The California coastline presents a wealth of easy vacation escapes for those residing in El Cajon rentals, from the scenic ocean views of nearby San Diego to the big star excitement of Hollywood. Camping is also in large supply around the area, and the Grand Canyon itself is within driving distance for the truly determined.

Where is the best place to move in El Cajon?

Whether you are in the market for a large family rental close to El Cajon schools, or simply require a comfy, one-bedroom single unit complete with onsite parking and swimming pool near the onramp of Interstate 8, we are confident that the ultimate El Cajon apartment is out there waiting to make your acquaintance. Start your search today and start living the good life in California without further delay!

El Cajon, CA
Population: 103,241

Ranked #302

in US Census Population by City

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Pet Friendly Lifestyle
El Cajon, CA

Ranked #106

Among cities in California for Apartment listings with Pet Friendly Amenities

Pet Friendliness Lifestyle Score

3.5
Pet Friendly

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Best Local Schools in
El Cajon, CA

School data provided by Great Schools

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

Explore El Cajon, CA Rentals by Map

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See the most popular apartments and homes in El Cajon, CA

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Getting Around El Cajon, CA

Walk Score®

63 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Some errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

46 / 100

Somewhat Bikeable

Minimal bike infrastructure

Transit Score®

32 / 100

Some Transit

A few nearby public transportation options

What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?

  • Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
  • Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
  • Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Frequently Asked Questions about El Cajon

How much are Studio apartments in El Cajon?

There are currently 48 Studio Apartments in El Cajon with rent ranges from $1,425 to $2,875 with an average price of $1,883.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom El Cajon Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in El Cajon ranges from $1,500 to $4,168 with an average monthly rent of $2,295.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in El Cajon cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in El Cajon range from $1,850 to $5,410. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $2,687.

How expensive are El Cajon Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 166 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in El Cajon on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $2,495 to $6,570 - averaging $3,351 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

decorative image for Signing Your Apartment Lease: The Basics article

Signing Your Apartment Lease: The Basics

Written by: Trey Huguley

When you're about to sign a lease for the first time, it can feel a bit overwhelming. You don’t want to miss any important details hidden in the fine print.

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What to Know About Fees and Fines When Renting

Written by: Trey Huguley

When it comes to renting a new apartment or home there can be a number of fees that you will want to keep in mind going into the process.

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Real Estate Term Glossary: Your Guide to The A to Zs of Renting

Written by: Kevin Ready

Navigating the world of real estate can reveal an abundance of terminology and phrasing around the topics of renting and buying that for some may seem like a brand-new language.

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Navigating the World of Low-Income Housing: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by: Kevin Ready

Are you having difficulty keeping up with bills or paying the rent? If so, you are not alone. Many families struggle to keep up with rents that have increased up to 40% in the past decade.