San Diego
Overview

San Diego Short-Term Rentals

San Diego isn't just another beach town — it's a full-on STR powerhouse where 32.5 million visitors roll in every year chasing sun, surf, and that perfect California vibe. Hosts here turn ocean-view condos into steady six-figure returns even with tighter 2026 rules, because demand never really dips. Whether you're an owner looking to list or a guest hunting the ultimate San Diego vacation rental, this market delivers year-round. Updated .

San Diego by the numbers

San Diego's tourism scene keeps humming strong in 2026 — visitors are staying longer and spending more across beaches, conventions, and family attractions. That steady flow creates the perfect setup for short-term rentals to outperform hotels, especially in coastal neighborhoods where occupancy and nightly rates stay reliably high year-round.

32.5M

Visitors to San Diego in FY2024 — demand that doesn't dip

$22B

Total tourism economic impact — one of the strongest markets in the US

65%+

Average STR occupancy in coastal neighborhoods

$57K

Median annual revenue per San Diego STR listing

San Diego neighborhoods

No two San Diego neighborhoods are alike. From La Jolla's cliffside luxury to Ocean Beach's barefoot-friendly vibe to Downtown's convention energy — each area has its own STR market dynamics, regulatory nuances, and guest profile. Pick yours.

For Property Owners

Why San Diego STRs still make sense for owners in 2026

Running a short-term rental in San Diego can feel like a part-time job — STRO licenses, TOT tax filings, platform compliance. But the numbers don't lie. Strong coastal demand and longer guest stays mean real returns when you do it right. Here's what every owner needs to know to stay compliant and profitable this year.

All owner resources

Secure your STRO license first

The Tier 1–4 system assigns your permit type based on whether it's your primary residence and how many nights you rent. One license per owner in most cases — apply at sandiego.gov before listing anywhere.

Register for TOT — then collect it

The zoned TOT rate runs 11.75–13.75% effective May 2025. Platforms usually collect it, but registration and any shortfalls are on you. Get your certificate at the same time as your STRO.

Know the 1% cap and Mission Beach rules

Whole-home STRs citywide are capped at roughly 1% of housing units. Mission Beach has a higher cap with its own history. Display your license number on every platform — it's required.

Focus on coastal for max revenue

Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and North County Coastal run 62–75% occupancy year-round. Strong reviews and STRO compliance are your two biggest levers for surviving enforcement and staying profitable.

For Guests & Visitors

Why guests love choosing short-term rentals in San Diego

Hotels are fine. But nothing beats waking up in your own San Diego home — ocean air through the windows, a full kitchen ready for taco night, and a neighborhood that feels like it was made for exactly the kind of trip you planned. Our vacation rentals put you right where locals actually live.

All guest guides

Wake up steps from the sand

Pacific Beach and La Jolla put you on the boardwalk, surf breaks, and sunset bonfires. No shuttle, no lobby — just open the door and you're there.

More space than any hotel room

Full kitchens, private parking, multiple bedrooms. Families and groups save serious money and actually enjoy meals together instead of eating out every night.

Real neighborhoods, not resort bubbles

Craft breweries in North Park, taco shops in Ocean Beach, Comic-Con energy in the Gaslamp. STRs drop you into the San Diego locals actually live in.

Year-round 70° weather — no bad time to visit

266 sunny days a year means your March trip works just as well as your August one. And your host always knows the best parking spots and hidden beaches.

San Diego short-term rentals — frequently asked questions

Yes — as long as you follow the rules. Every property needs a valid STRO license from the City of San Diego, and you must collect the proper Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). Whole-home rentals are subject to a citywide cap, but plenty of legal opportunities still exist, especially in coastal areas. The key is staying compliant from day one. You can review the full STRO ordinance details and start your application at the City Treasurer's official portal: sandiego.gov/treasurer/short-term-residential-occupancy.

It's zoned: 11.75%, 12.75%, or 13.75% depending on your exact location — rates that have been in effect since May 2025. Most major platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo collect and remit it automatically, but the registration responsibility is yours and you may owe additional TMD fees on larger properties. You can find your property's exact tax zone using the City's interactive map at sandiego.gov/treasurer/taxesfees/tot.

Apply through the City Treasurer's office at sandiego.gov/treasurer/short-term-residential-occupancy. Fees range from roughly $200–$1,100 depending on your tier and annual rental days. You'll also need a separate TOT certificate. Tiers 3 and 4 — which cover non-primary residences — sometimes have waitlists because of the 1% citywide cap on whole-home rentals. Check availability early, and note that licenses must be renewed every two years and displayed on every listing platform.

Coastal spots like Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, La Jolla, and North County Coastal deliver the highest demand and the strongest revenue — 62–75% occupancy and $57K+ median annual income. Downtown and Uptown work well for convention and city-vibe trips. Ocean Beach gives guests that authentic local feel that drives loyal repeat bookings. Coronado is exceptional for extended stays and monthly rentals given its 30-day minimum rule. The best neighborhood for you depends on your property type, budget, and management approach.