San Diego’s sunny climate, vibrant culture, and stunning coastline make it an attractive destination not only for short visits but also for longer stays. Whether you’re relocating temporarily for work, studying, or simply wanting an extended escape, serviced apartments offer a perfect blend of home-like comfort and hotel-like convenience. For travelers and professionals seeking cost-effective accommodation without compromising on quality, San Diego’s serviced apartments provide an excellent solution.
This guide explores some of the best serviced apartments in San Diego that combine affordability, top-notch services, and prime locations — ideal for those planning to settle in the city for weeks or months at a time.
What Are Serviced Apartments?
Before diving into the listings, it’s important to understand what serviced apartments offer. Unlike traditional hotels, serviced apartments are fully furnished units equipped with kitchens, living spaces, and laundry facilities, providing a more homely environment. They typically include hotel-like amenities such as housekeeping, concierge services, fitness centers, and sometimes even dining options.
For long-term stays, serviced apartments often come with flexible lease terms, discounted rates compared to nightly hotel prices, and the privacy of your own space. This makes them ideal for professionals, digital nomads, families, and anyone wanting the comforts of home with added convenience.
Top Affordable Serviced Apartments in San Diego
1. Staybridge Suites San Diego Downtown
Location: 1707 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Overview: Situated in the heart of downtown San Diego, Staybridge Suites offers spacious one- and two-bedroom suites designed for extended stays. The location puts you within walking distance of the Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park, and the waterfront.
Prices: Monthly rates start around $3,200 for a one-bedroom suite, including utilities and Wi-Fi. Longer leases often receive discounted pricing.
Services & Amenities: Fully equipped kitchens, free breakfast buffet, laundry facilities, fitness center, free airport shuttle, and complimentary evening socials several days a week.
Booking: Reservations can be made directly on the IHG website, which manages Staybridge Suites, or through popular travel platforms such as Expedia and Booking.com. For extended stays, contacting the hotel directly may yield better rates and flexible lease terms.
2. Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown/Bayfront
Location: 1702 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Overview: Located near the San Diego Bay, this Residence Inn offers beautifully furnished suites with spectacular views and convenient access to the waterfront and Seaport Village.
Prices: Monthly rates typically start at $3,500, with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom suites available. Utilities and high-speed internet are included.
Services & Amenities: Complimentary hot breakfast, grocery delivery service, 24-hour fitness center, swimming pool, and evening social receptions.
Booking: Book through Marriott’s official website for best prices and flexible cancellations. Extended stay inquiries can be handled through the front desk or reservations department.
3. Homewood Suites by Hilton San Diego Airport-Liberty Station
Location: 2697 Rosecrans St, San Diego, CA 92106
Overview: Situated in Liberty Station, a historic waterfront district, Homewood Suites combines a residential atmosphere with close proximity to the airport and downtown. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a quieter neighborhood with easy access to city attractions.
Prices: Monthly rates start from approximately $3,000 for one-bedroom suites, including utilities and Wi-Fi.
Services & Amenities: Full kitchens, complimentary hot breakfast, evening socials with light dinner options, fitness center, and free airport shuttle.
Booking: Available via Hilton’s website, third-party booking platforms, or direct contact with the property for special long-term stay deals.
4. Candlewood Suites San Diego
Location: 10940 Rancho Carmel Dr, San Diego, CA 92128
Overview: Located in the northern suburb of Carmel Valley, this option is excellent for those who want to stay away from the downtown hustle while still enjoying access to business districts and shopping centers.
Prices: Monthly rates generally begin around $2,700, making it one of the more affordable options.
Services & Amenities: Kitchenettes in every suite, laundry facilities, 24/7 fitness room, free Wi-Fi, and a convenience store onsite.
Booking: Reservations can be made through IHG’s official channels or directly via the hotel’s website, which often offers exclusive long-stay discounts.
5. Sonesta ES Suites San Diego – Sorrento Mesa
Location: 10720 Rancho Carmel Dr, San Diego, CA 92128
Overview: This property caters to business travelers and long-term guests with fully furnished suites in a tech-friendly neighborhood close to major companies and research centers.
Prices: Monthly rates start at about $3,200, including utilities and amenities.
Services & Amenities: Kitchens with full appliances, free breakfast, fitness center, business center, laundry facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Booking: Sonesta’s official website or contacting the hotel directly for corporate and extended stay rates is recommended.
What to Expect From San Diego Serviced Apartments
Spacious and Comfortable Living Spaces
One of the biggest advantages of serviced apartments is the generous space compared to standard hotel rooms. Suites typically feature separate bedrooms, living areas, dining spaces, and full kitchens. This setup allows guests to cook their meals, entertain visitors, or simply relax in a home-like environment.
Flexible Lease Terms and Pricing
Many serviced apartments cater specifically to long-term guests, offering discounts for stays beyond 30 days. This can significantly reduce the average nightly cost, making serviced apartments an economical choice. Some properties also offer flexible lease terms, allowing you to extend or shorten your stay without hassle.
Essential Amenities Included
Utilities such as water, electricity, and Wi-Fi are generally bundled into the monthly rate, simplifying your budgeting. High-speed internet is particularly important for remote workers or students. Other amenities often include housekeeping services, on-site fitness centers, laundry facilities, and 24-hour security.
Convenient Locations
San Diego’s serviced apartments are strategically located near major business hubs, popular neighborhoods, and transportation options. Whether you prefer to stay downtown close to the city’s nightlife and cultural attractions or in quieter suburban areas like Carmel Valley or Liberty Station, you’ll find options that suit your lifestyle and needs.
Booking Your Serviced Apartment: Tips and Recommendations
Plan Ahead and Contact Directly
While booking through popular travel websites is convenient, for long-term stays it’s often best to contact the serviced apartment directly. This allows you to negotiate rates, inquire about special offers, and clarify lease terms or additional services.
Compare Monthly Rates and Inclusions
Make sure to compare not just the base price but what’s included in the monthly rate. Some places include utilities, parking, gym access, and cleaning services, while others charge these separately. Clarifying this upfront will help you avoid unexpected costs.
Understand Cancellation and Extension Policies
Long-term bookings can sometimes come with stricter cancellation policies, so it’s important to understand these before committing. Also, check how flexible the property is if you want to extend your stay.
Check Reviews and Testimonials
Reading recent reviews from long-term guests can provide valuable insight into the quality of the accommodation, responsiveness of staff, and neighborhood safety.
Why Choose Serviced Apartments in San Diego?
Opting for a serviced apartment when planning a long-term stay in San Diego strikes the perfect balance between the familiarity of a home and the convenience of hotel living. Unlike traditional hotels, serviced apartments offer guests the independence and privacy of having their own fully furnished space, complete with kitchens, living areas, and often laundry facilities. This allows residents to live comfortably and maintain their usual routines — cooking meals, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing in a space that feels truly their own.
At the same time, serviced apartments come with a range of services designed to simplify daily life. From regular housekeeping and maintenance to 24-hour security and concierge assistance, these offerings take care of the little things so guests can focus on what matters most. Many properties also include amenities such as fitness centers, swimming pools, business centers, and free high-speed internet, catering perfectly to remote workers, students, and families alike.
San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods mean there is a serviced apartment option to suit every lifestyle and budget. If you prefer the energy and excitement of city life, downtown San Diego offers suites just steps away from vibrant dining, entertainment, and cultural landmarks. For those seeking a quieter atmosphere, bayside areas like Liberty Station or Carmel Valley provide peaceful surroundings with beautiful views and easy access to nature. This geographic variety ensures that whether you want to be in the heart of it all or somewhere more tranquil, you can find a well-located apartment that fits your needs.
Moreover, long-term stays in serviced apartments typically offer significant cost savings compared to hotels, especially as many provide discounted monthly rates. Utilities, internet, and amenities are often included in the price, making budgeting straightforward and transparent. This combination of affordability and quality makes serviced apartments a smart choice for those staying weeks or months. Whether you are relocating for work, pursuing studies remotely, or simply looking for an extended coastal retreat, a serviced apartment in San Diego offers a welcoming and flexible home base. With careful planning and research, you can find an ideal residence that provides comfort, convenience, and a genuine sense of belonging during your stay in this beautiful coastal city.