Camp Pendleton sits along the sunny coastline of San Diego County, California. If you're part of a Marine Corps family, chances are you'll be stationed here at some point, and it’s not hard to see why. Camp Pendleton is roughly the size of Rhode Island and employs over 40,000 Marines, making it one of the largest Marine Corps installations in the United States.
It's important to determine where you’ll be working before settling on a home to rent near Camp Pendleton. Living on the opposite end of base from your unit could mean a long and frustrating commute through congested areas or limited-access gates. Gate hours and traffic patterns can vary, so location truly matters.
Not sure where to start your search? Consider these five popular communities when you're searching for Camp Pendleton homes for rent.
Oceanside
Oceanside is the third-largest city in San Diego County and sits south of Camp Pendleton. It’s a laid-back coastal town known for its walkable downtown, local restaurants, cute shops, surf culture, and steady stream of visitors. Despite its popularity, Oceanside remains one of the more practical choices for military families looking to live near base.
Its location is ideal, 45 minutes from San Diego, about an hour from Disneyland in Anaheim, and two hours from Los Angeles, making weekend getaways easy and convenient. Oceanside is also more BAH-friendly than many other Southern California beach towns, offering better value for your housing allowance, especially if you're flexible on square footage or distance from the water.
Another bonus: the commute to base is typically short, often minutes, depending on your unit’s location. With its mix of affordability, access to amenities, and beachside charm, Oceanside blends convenience and lifestyle in a way that’s hard to beat.
Carlsbad
South of Oceanside, Carlsbad is another beachside city with strong appeal. It’s known for its highly rated schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and clean, well-maintained public spaces. You'll also find plenty of shopping, dining, and attractions, like LEGOLAND California and the Flower Fields.
Carlsbad is more expensive than Oceanside, but many military families feel the upgraded amenities and strong community atmosphere are worth the cost. The commute to base varies depending on which gate you use, but is generally reasonable.
Fallbrook
Nestled in the hills east of Camp Pendleton, Fallbrook is a hidden gem for military families who prefer a rural, small-town atmosphere. Known as the "Avocado Capital of the World," Fallbrook is quiet, scenic, and full of charm.
Large lots, mountain views, and peace and quiet are common in Fallbrook rental homes. It’s a great fit for families who don’t mind a bit of a drive for privacy and more space. Commute times to the east gate range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Fallbrook housing prices are more affordable than coastal options, and your BAH can go a long way here, especially if you’re looking for a bit more breathing room.
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Temecula
Temecula lies to the east of Camp Pendleton and offers a distinctly different lifestyle from the coastal towns. With its rolling hills, wineries, and spacious neighborhoods, Temecula appeals to families who want more space, more privacy, and a little distance from the hustle of beachside living.
It’s a popular choice for military families seeking a quieter, more suburban feel. Residents enjoy a slower pace, weekend wine tastings, family-friendly parks, golf courses, and events like farmers' markets and outdoor concerts. The local schools are well-rated, and the area offers a strong sense of community.
The trade-off is the commute. Travel time to base, depending on your location, is between 40 and 60 minutes, though traffic or gate access can increase this. But many families find that the added square footage and more affordable housing prices are well worth it. Since Temecula is inland, your BAH tends to stretch further here than it does in coastal cities.
If you're looking for a little separation from military life with great schools and room to grow, Temecula may be what your family needs.
San Clemente
Located north of Camp Pendleton, San Clemente offers an upscale coastal experience in a smaller, more relaxed beach town setting. With beautiful ocean views, a walkable downtown, and trendy boutiques and breweries, it’s easy to fall in love with this town's charm.
Unlike Oceanside, San Clemente feels more residential and peaceful. Its beaches are often less crowded and mostly frequented by locals, giving the area a more tight-knit vibe. It’s also conveniently positioned between Los Angeles and San Diego, making it a solid base for weekend trips in either direction.
The commute to base is short, especially for those working near the northern gates. While the location is convenient, it comes with a higher price tag. Housing here is often more expensive than in Oceanside or Temecula, and rentals can exceed BAH rates. However, some families are willing to pay a premium for the views, great schools, and quieter lifestyle.
Finding the right rental home near Camp Pendleton depends on your priorities, whether it’s proximity to base, school quality, space for your family, or that Southern California beach lifestyle. No matter which area you choose, planning ahead based on your unit's location and your family's lifestyle needs will help you make the most of your time stationed at Camp Pendleton.
Learn more about the San Diego area with MilitaryByOwner's free guide below.
