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How to Negotiate Rent: 7 Proven Strategies That Get Results
Negotiating rent can save you hundreds or thousands annually, but most renters never try.
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What to Know About
Life in El Cajon & Beyond
El Cajon shares many of the great qualities that make California a desirable place to live.
California is the most populous state in the United States and is home to some of the world's most iconic cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. It's known for its thriving economy and diverse landscapes, including beaches, deserts, and mountains. Immerse yourself in the state's history and traditions by visiting museums like the California Science Center and the Getty Center or attending worldwide renowned universities like Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.
There are also many outdoor recreation opportunities in the state, such as skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, surfing along the Pacific Coast, and hiking in Yosemite National Park. There's something for everyone. Sports fans can enjoy cheering on the San Francisco 49ers (NFL), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), San Francisco Giants (MLB), Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), or Golden State Warriors (NBA). Also, check out famous attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Disneyland, Hollywood, the historic city of San Francisco, and the mecca of Los Angeles.
With its warm and inviting climate, thriving economy, and high quality of life, Embrace the Golden State and discover why California is a great place to live.
Rental Market Trends
El Cajon, CA
As of May 2025, El Cajon's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. El Cajon's average rent is 11.3% ($277) lower than the California average of $2,461 and 21.8% ($391) higher than the U.S. average of $1,793.
Average Rent
$2,184
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
0.9% ($20)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
2.8% ($63)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
39
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $1,927 | 0.2% ($3) | 9% ($159) |
| 2 Beds | $2,273 | 1% ($22) | 0.1% ($2) |
| 3 Beds | $3,039 | 0.1% ($2) | 6.5% ($210) |
| Nearby Cities | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. El CajonAverage Rent vs. El Cajon | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santee | $2,722 | 24.6% ($538) | 27 days |
| La Mesa | $2,478 | 13.5% ($294) | 30 days |
| Spring Valley | $2,271 | 4% ($87) | 27 days |
| Lakeside | $2,006 | 8.2% ($178) | 30 days |
| Lemon Grove | $2,109 | 3.4% ($75) | 26 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
El Cajon Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in El Cajon, CA.
The average rent in El Cajon, CA is $2,184 per month.
Homes in El Cajon typically rent for between $1,349 and $3,951 per month, with an average of $2,184 per month.
In El Cajon, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $1,927 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $2,273 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $3,039 per month.
The average rent in El Cajon is 21.8% ($391) higher than the national average of $1,793 per month.
The average rent in El Cajon has increased by 0.9% ($20) in the last month and decreased by 2.8% ($63) over the past year.
The rental market in El Cajon, CA, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In El Cajon, CA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 39 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 158 rental properties available in El Cajon, CA.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $90,920 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in El Cajon.
