Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Affordable spots

You are looking for ways to stretch your budget without sacrificing your standards. You know how to find quality even when you are watching your wallet.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
User
User
User
Updated
01
CELL PHONE PLANET image 1
CELL PHONE PLANET image 2
CELL PHONE PLANET image 3
View all

Store offers a massive selection of affordable phone cases and cheap cell phones. Atmosphere stays super chill with friendly staff and nice music. Convenient parking and trustworthy repair services add to the appeal.

Prices stay consistently cheap for cell phones, cases, and screen protectors. Everything here offers good quality at a low cost.

Many affordable phone cases fill the shelves. Staff help find options that fit your phone and budget. Prices stay consistently affordable across a wide variety of products.

People are saying

"I found the phone cases to be really affordable and cute."

"I found their prices to be very cheap."

Good to know

1

CELL PHONE PLANET offers a wide variety of affordable phone cases.

2

Parking is conveniently available right in front of the store.

3

Prices for phone cases and accessories are very cheap.

02
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 2
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Beers come at cheap prices, especially during happy hour. The Street Taco special on Tuesdays offers a really affordable option.

Crispy fish tacos come at an extremely affordable price. Lunch options are quick, tasty, and budget-friendly. Draft beer costs just $3, making the overall experience very affordable.

People are saying

"The fish tacos are amazing and incredibly cheap."

"You can't beat the crispy fish tacos for such an affordable price."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

03
Tasty Pizza image 1
Tasty Pizza image 2
Tasty Pizza image 3
View all

Pickup-only setup with no seating and reserved parking on the side. Atmosphere feels welcoming and homey despite being focused on takeout. Offers affordable, flavorful pizza with consistent quality and great specials.

Big pizzas come at cheap prices without skimping on taste. Food quality stays high while keeping costs low.

Food here stays affordable without skimping on quality. The pizza offers good value and tastes great.

People are saying

"The pizza here is super cheap and really tasty."

Good to know

1

This place has reserved parking available on the side.

2

There are no seats in the restaurant; it's take-out only.

3

The prices at Tasty Pizza are reasonable, with large pizzas starting at $9.99.

04
UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas-Hazard Center image 1
UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas-Hazard Center image 2
UltraStar Mission Valley Cinemas-Hazard Center image 3
View all

Movie theater offers D-Box vibrating seats and plush cushioned seating that enhance comfort and immersion. Atmosphere recalls an 80s/90s vibe with a mom-and-pop feel, avoiding the blandness of corporate chains. It stays quiet and uncrowded, creating a cozy and inviting experience.

Tickets stay fairly cheap, especially on Thursdays when new movies drop. The theater keeps things simple and cozy while maintaining a clean environment.

Ticket prices stay consistently affordable compared to AMC or Regal theaters. Promotions like Happy Hour add extra value for an inexpensive date night or corporate event.

People are saying

"I found the ticket prices to be really affordable, especially on Thursdays."

"I found the tickets and popcorn to be cheap."

Good to know

1

The cinema offers half-price deals on beers, movies, and food on Thursdays.

2

Thursdays, they offered discounted tickets and popcorn.

3

The 1/2 price night is very crowded, so arrive early.

05
Chrono Toys Fashion Valley image 1
Chrono Toys Fashion Valley image 2
Chrono Toys Fashion Valley image 3
View all

Toy store offers large collection of figurines, hundreds of Funko Pops, and anime and manga posters. Atmosphere stays chill and upbeat with good music playing. Prices remain reasonable with great deals on collectibles.

Prices stay consistently super cheap while maintaining high quality prints and figures. The store offers an awesome selection without raising costs.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the store. Figurines and Funkos come with great deals that keep costs low.

People are saying

"I found the prices to be very affordable."

"I thought the prices here were super cheap."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide variety of collectibles for different fandoms.

2

Prices are very reasonable for all merchandise available.

3

Expect to find many unique Loungefly products and canvas art.

06
Stay Classy Hostel image 1
Stay Classy Hostel image 2
Stay Classy Hostel image 3
View all

Modern dorm-style setup offers private pods with heavy curtains that create personal space despite shared rooms. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, attracting an older crowd and promoting comfort. Amenities include free coffee, pool table, and well-equipped showers, enhancing the overall stay.

Offers a very cheap stay with all essentials covered. Vending machine water is affordable, and drinking water is provided.

Offers an affordable price with clean and safe amenities. Friendly atmosphere complements the value.

People are saying

"I thought the hostel was very affordable and a great option."

"I thought it was very cheap and had everything I needed."

Good to know

1

The hostel is located two blocks from a trolley station for easy transport.

2

Getting to the Convention Center takes just two stops with one transfer.

3

Staff set up a big screen for events like the Super Bowl.

07
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Monsta Ramen Curry image 2
Monsta Ramen Curry image 3
View all

Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a warm, casual atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and pleasant, making it feel cozy and inviting. The setting stands out for its Studio Ghibli-like ambiance and neat decor.

Prices range from $10 to $15, making meals very cheap compared to other spots. The place offers extra broth to go at no extra cost, adding value to takeout orders.

Fiery curry and lunch specials come at very affordable prices. Portions offer great value compared to nearby spots, making meals both tasty and inexpensive.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"They're so cheap with the broth, I always order extra."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

08
Plato's Closet San Diego image 1
Plato's Closet San Diego image 2
Plato's Closet San Diego image 3
View all

Bright, boutique-style thrift store with impeccable decor and a thoughtful layout makes browsing easy and enjoyable. The atmosphere is relaxed yet energetic, with upbeat music and friendly staff creating a welcoming vibe. Offers a wide selection of trendy, high-quality apparel at discounted prices.

Prices stay consistently cheap with many brand-name clothing options. Some items show signs of wear but remain affordable.

Prices stay incredibly low, making shopping feel like a discount apparel store. The selection focuses on affordable and trendy clothing that fits a tight budget.

People are saying

"I found stylish, unique finds that were surprisingly affordable."

"I found brand-name clothes for really cheap."

Good to know

1

Plato's Closet San Diego offers high-quality men's and women's clothing at discounted prices.

2

Expect to find designer brands and thrift store staples at great prices.

3

The selection includes current and stylish apparel for budget-conscious shoppers.

09
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 1
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 2
Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park image 3
View all

Mexican restaurant with authentic imported tile floors and retro neon signs creates a space that feels like an 80s cantina. The atmosphere is dark and casual, offering ample seating for sit-down meals. It operates 24/7, attracting a steady flow of people looking for late-night Mexican food.

Prices stay cheap and affordable, ranging from 3 to 12 dollars. This keeps meals easy on the wallet.

Prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making most items very affordable. The shrimp quesadilla features big shrimp and costs around 8 or 9 dollars. Food is consistently fast and inexpensive.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be yummy and affordable."

"I found the food to be great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park is open 24 hours and on holidays.

2

The prices at Roberto's Taco Shop Bay Park are very good, especially for Southern California.

3

The prices range from 3 to 12 dollars, making it affordable.

10
JV's Mexican Food image 1
JV's Mexican Food image 2
JV's Mexican Food image 3
View all

Colorful interior with bright decorations and big screens showing sports creates a lively yet laid-back vibe. The space feels authentic and welcoming, offering plenty of seating without any pretension. Regulars enjoy huge, flavorful burritos and house-made salsa in a clean, casual setting.

Food comes at cheap prices here. Meals are delicious, quick, and affordable.

Food costs stay low with inexpensive prices and generous portions. This spot offers more food for less compared to similar Mexican restaurants.

People are saying

"It's affordable and the portions are huge."

"I thought the food was cheap and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 tacos and a drink for $6.

2

Expect large portions, often enough for two or three meals.

3

Credit cards accepted, but there's a $0.30 fee for using them.

11
The Friendly image 1
The Friendly image 2
The Friendly image 3
View all

Small pizza spot with a grungy vibe and loud fringe music sets a high-energy, fast-paced scene. Limited seating and no air conditioning make it hot and stuffy, while cheap Hamm's beer adds to the casual feel. The place draws a busy crowd seeking New York-style slices and smash burgers.

Cheap prices cover burgers, pizza slices, and beer. Food quality is low but service stays fast and friendly.

Food comes fast with high-quality ingredients at affordable prices. A cheeseburger costs $7 and includes smash patties, grilled onions, cheese, and mayo.

People are saying

"The beer here is really cheap."

"The smash burger here is awesome and affordable."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times due to the restaurant's popularity, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking can be challenging in the area, so consider walking if nearby.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, often leading to standing outside.

12
In-N-Out Burger image 1
In-N-Out Burger image 2
In-N-Out Burger image 3
View all

Small hamburger restaurant with a nostalgic 1950s diner vibe and high energy inside. The space feels cozy but cramped, with a loud and fun atmosphere driven by young, well-trained staff. Drive-thru and parking can be challenging due to layout and limited outdoor seating.

Prices stay really cheap with meals like two burgers, animal fries, lemonade, and hot cocoa coming in under $20. Shakes are handmade and also cheap, while burgers are juicy and affordable.

Prices stay consistently affordable with a focus on inexpensive burgers. Service is fast, making it easy to get a quick, budget-friendly meal.

People are saying

"The burgers were cheap and juicy."

"I found the prices to be affordable and the value really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to limited spots and a long drive-thru line.

2

The drive-thru is super fast, making it convenient for quick meals.

3

Prices are affordable, with meals often under $20.

13
Zion Market image 1
Zion Market image 2
Zion Market image 3
View all

Large, modern Korean grocery store with spacious aisles and bright lighting creates a pleasant shopping environment. Frequent bursts of K-pop music add lively energy, while food court and bakery options offer diverse Korean cuisine experiences.

Fresh produce comes at cheap prices, especially fruits and vegetables. Small quantities are available, and items like shrimps, Korean snacks, and kimchi are also affordable.

Affordable vegetables and Korean products stand out here. Ready-to-eat meals, marinated meats, and butane gas cans also come at inexpensive prices. Special offers add to the budget-friendly options.

People are saying

"I found the fruits and vegetables to be cheap."

"I found the produce and marinated meats to be deliciously affordable."

Good to know

1

There are special offers every week.

2

Zion Market has a great selection of seafood, both fresh and frozen.

3

Expect to find the best deals on produce in California.

14
Pho Cow Cali image 1
Pho Cow Cali image 2
Pho Cow Cali image 3
View all

Steampunk-themed interior with large seats and murals creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Dim lighting and soft music add to the authentic Vietnamese vibe. The place suits groups and families more than quiet dinners due to its hectic and noisy environment.

Prices stay consistently cheap and fair without cutting corners on ingredients. The taste remains solid and reliable for the cost.

Prices stay affordable with most specials around $13. Portions come generous and meals like chicken noodle soup satisfy without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"I found the prices to be affordable and the portions generous."

"The pho here is quick and inexpensive."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid a long wait, especially on Fridays.

3

The waitlist moves quickly, often under 20 minutes.

15
Walmart image 1
Walmart image 2
Walmart image 3
View all

Wide open store with solar-powered parking roof offers ample and secure parking. Clean and well organized, it provides a wide selection of household items and groceries, though lacks fresh produce and meat sections. Pharmacy area includes a free blood pressure machine and efficient service.

Prices stay consistently cheap across fresh and delicious items. Shopping feels quick and easy with friendly service.

Offers a large selection of goods with affordable prices across clothes, food, and electronics. Provides good quality products while keeping costs low for most items.

People are saying

"I found so many items I wanted at affordable prices."

"I found everything to be fresh, delicious, and cheap."

Good to know

1

This Walmart store doesn't have a meat department or fresh produce.

2

There was ample and secure parking.

3

I found the pharmacy at Walmart to be very efficient.

16
Cluck N' Sip image 1
Cluck N' Sip image 2
Cluck N' Sip image 3
View all

Fast food spot with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and about eight tables inside, plus limited outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and inviting with Mandarin music playing softly. Known for juicy, well-seasoned chicken and affordable prices, it offers a clean, casual place to enjoy simple meals.

The spicy chicken sandwich stands out as a great cheap lunch or dinner option. However, overall prices are not cheap despite some affordable dishes.

Food stays affordable with good quality. Chicken comes juicy and crispy without costing much.

People are saying

"I found the food to be good and affordable."

"I loved the super cheap and recommended food."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch deal every day for $7.99, including two chicken tenders, a side, and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available at Cluck N' Sip.

3

The restaurant is halal certified, making it a good option for halal diners.

17
Super Discount Store image 1
Super Discount Store image 2
Super Discount Store image 3
View all

Discount store offers a wide variety of discounted items including canned and packaged goods with affordable prices. The atmosphere can get loud and chaotic, with homeless people nearby, but the environment remains safe and organized. Many products are close to expiration, requiring patience to find the best deals.

Super discount store offers super cheap prices during deals like 10 for a dollar or 2 for a dollar. Snacks often come near expiration, so patience and time help make the shopping trip pay off.

Prices stay consistently affordable across the store. A full aisle offers inexpensive cleaning and laundry products. Budget-friendly options dominate the shelves.

People are saying

"I found super cheap prices on snacks, especially when they had deals."

"I found so many inexpensive options for cleaning and laundry."

Good to know

1

EBT is accepted for purchases, making it accessible for low-income shoppers.

2

The best deals are typically on canned and packaged foods nearing expiration.

3

The store has a wide variety of discounted items, including housewares and snacks.

18
Lucky D's Hostel San Diego image 1
Lucky D's Hostel San Diego image 2
Lucky D's Hostel San Diego image 3
View all

Hostel combines eclectic style with artsy decor resembling a mini museum. Vibrant atmosphere features loud nightlife and social common areas with a big, well-equipped kitchen. Thin walls make noise easily audible, creating a lively but sometimes noisy environment.

Rates stay low with a cheap reception and affordable breakfast featuring basic cereal and sweets. Location sits right in a great downtown area.

Affordable stays include private rooms at low prices. The place stays clean and quiet while being conveniently located downtown.

People are saying

"I found the hostel to be cheap and located in a great downtown area."

"I found it to be clean, quiet, and affordable."

Good to know

1

The location is great, close to the Gaslamp Quarter and Petco Park.

2

Expect street noise; bringing ear plugs is recommended for better sleep.

3

The hostel offers organized activities and social events for guests.

19
Lee's Haircut image 1
Lee's Haircut image 2
Lee's Haircut image 3
View all

Barber shop with mini vacuum clippers keeps the area very clean and dust-free. It offers affordable haircuts around $14, attracting teens and military personnel with professional stylists and quick service. Cash-only policy and occasional waits reflect steady demand and simple setup.

Offers quick and cheap haircuts with a decent quality, especially for military styles.

Prices stay incredibly affordable for haircuts. Services are fast and follow instructions closely.

People are saying

"I found it to be a reliable and affordable option for a haircut."

Good to know

1

Cash only; no credit cards accepted.

2

Standard fade and trim costs $14, significantly cheaper than nearby shops.

3

Expect some wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

20
IKEA image 1
IKEA image 2
IKEA image 3
View all

Spacious showroom-style layout presents furniture in stylish, cozy rooms that feel like flipping through a live Pinterest board. Cafeteria offers Swedish meatballs, veggie options, and a large dining area with real silverware. Kids find activities engaging, making the place feel like an amusement park for families.

Prices stay consistently cheap across furniture and food. The restaurant offers Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce at a very low cost, especially on Tuesdays.

Offers a wide variety of affordable furniture and home goods with a minimalist Scandinavian design. Prices stay low while keeping options stylish and fresh.

People are saying

"I found stylish and affordable furniture for all tastes here."

"I found the furniture and food here to be really cheap."

Good to know

1

IKEA offers furniture at affordable prices.

2

I found plenty of parking at IKEA.

3

IKEA Family members can get two free kids meals with one adult entrée on Wednesdays.

21
Fan-Fan image 1
Fan-Fan image 2
Fan-Fan image 3
View all

Bright space with tall glass windows and high ceilings creates a warm and lively atmosphere. Seating includes both booths and bar options, offering comfort and convenience. The environment feels modern and cozy, welcoming guests with an artsy mural reflecting campus life.

Cheap rice stands out as a budget option here. Meals can cost around 23, which is not very cheap but still reasonable compared to other places.

Offers a variety of dishes with large portions at low prices. Food stays affordable without cutting back on options.

People are saying

"The food here is surprisingly cheap, especially compared to nearby options."

"I found the food here to be affordable and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 30% off select drinks and specific food items, not the buffet.

2

Fan-Fan accepts only card payments; no cash or dining dollars are accepted.

3

Prices are based on weight, approximately $0.79 per pound for food.

22
Burlington image 1
Burlington image 2
Burlington image 3
View all

Store offers affordable prices with a wide variety of goods including clothes and home items. Atmosphere is generally quiet but can feel messy due to tightly packed clothes and items on the floor. Inventory restocks frequently, keeping selection fresh despite smaller size.

Clothes for both kids and adults come at very cheap prices here. The place stays quiet and feels nice while offering these low costs.

Shelves hold affordable clothes with prices that stay low. The store stays clean and easy to shop.

People are saying

"I spend a lot here because it's so affordable."

"I spend a lot here because it's so cheap."

Good to know

1

Prices at Burlington are significantly lower than original retail prices.

2

The store is consistently restocked with new items, often daily.

3

Expect a wide variety of affordable clothing options.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide