For New Postdocs: Housing

San Diego’s property values have increased steadily over the last several years, and one can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to well over $1,000 monthly to rent a room or apartment. According to the San Diego Housing Commission’s website, the average apartment rent in San Diego is $1,158. While neighborhoods vary in rental prices, TSRI is typically a 15-30 minute commute from most areas of the city. The San Diego Union-Tribune and the San Diego Weekly Reader classifieds are good starting places for vacancies.

• TSRI Human Resources Relocation Resources website
• Human Resources/Postdoc Services Housing Brochure
• Society of Fellows: links to housing classifieds
• Rental assistance information
• San Diego Craigslist (classifieds)

Apartments are usually rented unfurnished. Water, garbage, electricity and other utilities are assumed to be charged separately from monthly rent unless specified. San Diego’s climate is often described as ‘perfect’ and subsequently, winter heating costs are typically low. For municipal city services, see local community service centers and City of San Diego Services Directory.

Some tips: Pre-determine your budget and desired amenities that best fit your needs. Examine the neighborhood, including proximity to supermarkets, public transportation, banks, etc. Be sure to read and understand the rental contract before signing anything. All agreements between you and the landlord should be made in writing. Also, having a credit check and list of references ready will expedite the signing process. For information about tenent responsibilities and rights, see http://tenantslegalcenter.com/.

Temporary Housing
This is a very short list; San Diego has many hotels and the prices will depend on the location and time of year.

• Weichert Corporate Housing 1-877-533-9009
• Residence Inn-Marriot (858) 552-9100
• Holiday Inn Express-La Jolla (858) 454-7101
• Hotel La Jolla (858) 459-0261
• La Jolla Beach Travelodge (858)-454-0716
• Best Western Stratford Inn (858) 755-1501
• Doubletree Hotel-Del Mar (858) 481-5900
• Clarion Del Mar Inn (858) 755-9765

Furnishings
If you are new to the San Diego area, you may need to invest in some common furnishings. Beds, house wares, desks, and other furniture are essential to outfitting a comfortable living space. Because of the consistent, large volume of postdocs entering and leaving TSRI, many research staff members offer to sell their high quality, used items through the TSRI classifieds. Check out archives of current and past classifieds.