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Gema San Diego exterior in Cortez Hill

Townhome Community

Townhome living,
city-centered style.

Gema San Diego living room with natural light

Room to Live Well

Room to relax in Cortez Hill.

Outdoor apartment pool area with lounge chairs, palm trees, and balconies overlooking the water.

Downtown San Diego

Close to everything.

  • Gema San Diego exterior in Cortez Hill
  • Gema San Diego living room with natural light
  • Outdoor apartment pool area with lounge chairs, palm trees, and balconies overlooking the water.
Up to 8 Weeks Free Base Rent!*

Up to 8 Weeks Free Base Rent!*

*On select units. Base rent. Restrictions and minimum lease terms apply. Other costs and fees excluded.
View Floor Plans
White logo with large text "gema" and smaller text "SAN DIEGO" on a light background.

Welcome to a calmer Downtown address with room to settle in.
Browse one- and two-bedroom townhomes and one-bedroom flats,
then see what makes Cortez Hill feel connected without feeling crowded.
Start with the neighborhood or jump straight to floor plans.

A simple, abstract purple line drawing of a flower with overlapping petals and a trumpet-shaped center.
A simple, abstract purple line drawing of a flower with overlapping petals and a trumpet-shaped center.
A simple, abstract purple line drawing of a flower with overlapping petals and a trumpet-shaped center.

Amenities

Community Amenities

Sit back and relax at our outdoor pool, spa, and sundeck, or sweat it out in the fitness center. Gema provides modern conveniences in a quiet community nestled in the midst of the city.
  • Gated & access-controlled community
  • Expanded package lockers
  • Complimentary coffee service
  • Pool + Spa
  • Sundeck
  • Upgraded fitness center
  • Pet-friendly
  • Landscaped courtyards and grounds
  • 24 Level 2 EV Chargers
  • Herb Garden
  • Grilling area
  • Bike storage
  • Garage Parking
  • 24-hour emergency maintenance
  • On-site management
  • Flexible Rent Payment Schedule with Flex Rent*

*Flex is a monthly subscription that helps you pay rent on time, improve cash flow, and build your credit history.

Interior Features

Our spacious, pet-friendly homes in Cortez Hill include one-bedroom flats and one- and two-bedroom townhome-style layouts. Each is light-filled and finished with elevated touches that encourage the rest and refuge sought from home.

  • Central Heating and Cooling
  • Kitchen Pantry
  • Granite/Quartz Countertops
  • Plank-Style Flooring
  • Balconies/Patios/Terraces
  • Private Entrance
  • Spacious Closets
  • Stainless Steel Appliances
  • 24-Hour Emergency Maintenance
  • Private Entrance
  • Balconies/Patios/Terraces
  • Granite/Quartz Countertops
  • In-Home Washer/Dryer*
  • Gas Stove

*In select homes

Resident Programs

Helpful resident programs at Gema make everyday living a little easier, from referral opportunities and rewards to flexible rent support.

Friend Factor Referral Program

Know someone who’d be a great neighbor? Refer them to Gema San Diego and earn $250 when they sign a lease and move in. Ask our leasing team for details and program terms.

Rooted Rewards Program

Rooted Rewards is our resident loyalty program because staying deserves to be celebrated. Each year you renew your lease, you unlock a new tier of perks, from carpet and floor refreshes in year one to rent credits, premium appliance upgrades, and beyond for long-term residents. Ask our team for the full rewards schedule.

More Reasons Residents Love Calling Us Home

“James AND Adam are both amazing staff. Made me feel so welcome on my first day with the move in process as I was nervous. Took so much time with me to walk me through the process as a renter and were so welcoming. Absolutely love the management and maintainable department.”
– Tj Ise
September 2026
“Great location, staff, and overall place to call home!”
– Ryan Peterson
September 2026
“Just moved in to these apartments. Ive been loving it. Our agent was James he is amazing he helped us out and answered all of our questions making it super easy and comfortable to move in. Very nice experience overall”
– Claudia Valencia
June 2026
“I am happy living in Gema every one is so respectful of each other Thank you James you showed me that even at a senior age I can still enjoy my life living in Gema I can’t thank you enough”
– Linda Johnson
June 2026
“Hey, Just want to give a shout out that this community is absolutely beautiful and well taken care of. Management James, Eric, and Tommy have been thouroughly proactive in addressing every need possible since we moved in a few months ago. Especially James, he’s always on top of it!! Any questions or concerns this team will take the time and patience to help! Moving sucks but they helped my situation out and made corrected all my needs. Such a great team! Appreciate you guys and keep up the gr…
– Jeremy Singletary
June 2026
“Since moving in here we have had an overwhelmingly positive experience. Great area where it is fairly quiet at night for being in a city, considerate neighbors, and a great leasing/maintenance team. Appliances are all up-to-date and function well, the amenities from the resident app to the fitness center are very user friendly. I’d like to give a shout out to our leasing agent, James. His professionalism and genuine interest in setting us up in a unit that fit our budget, lifestyle, and prefer…
– Gabriel Leppo
May 2026
“Recently moved to this complex. James from the leasing office was such a great help showing me around and answering all my questions. His introduction made me feel like I’m right at home. I’ve made the right choice by moving here.”
– Sabrina Brown
May 2026
“Great location, downtown living but in a peaceful location, great staff, inside and outside is well maintained, pet friendly, safe place to live, nice amenities! I really enjoy having a townhouse!!”
– kat miller
April 2026
A simple purple line drawing of a leafy vegetable, possibly lettuce or bok choy, on a light background.
A simple purple line drawing of a leafy vegetable, possibly lettuce or bok choy, on a light background.
A simple purple line drawing of a leafy vegetable, possibly lettuce or bok choy, on a light background.

Neighborhood

A relatively quiet corner of downtown San Diego, Cortez Hill is rich with history and contains some of the most vibrant areas of the city. Close to Balboa Park’s sprawling 1,200 acres of open spaces, natural vegetation, museums, theaters, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, the neighborhood is also readily connected to the socially vibrant hot spots of Little Italy and the East Village.

Gema’s location and access to the 5 freeway and Surfliner train for weekends in OC and LA serve as a welcome reprieve for a quick, but so-close to home, getaway. Or, for those looking for adventure, the San Diego airport is only ten minutes away.

Part of Downtown San Diego’s new renaissance, Cortez Hill remains ideal for exploring and an excellent place to live. The area offers historic views and plenty of room to breathe.

97

Walk Score
Daily errands are easy from this Downtown San Diego address.

76

Bike Score
Bike-friendly access connects Gema to nearby neighborhoods.
    Explore the Neighborhood

    FAQs

    Applying & Leasing
    How do I apply for an apartment at Gema San Diego?

    You may apply online by visiting live-gemasandiego.com or by contacting our leasing team for assistance with current availability, pricing, and next steps. Apply Now

    What documents are required to apply?
    Applicants may be asked to provide a valid government-issued photo ID, proof of income, and any additional documentation needed to complete the screening process. Please contact the leasing office for the most current application requirements.
    Are there any income requirements or credit checks?
    Applicants are required to have a monthly income of at least 2.5 times the monthly rent. Gema does not have a set minimum credit score, but each applicant’s credit report is reviewed as part of the screening process, including payment history, rental history, outstanding balances, collections, and overall credit background.
    What lease terms are available?
    Lease terms at Gema may vary based on season and availability but typically range from 3 to 12 months. Please visit our floor plans page for current lease term options.
    Are short-term leases available?
    Short-term leases may be available by request.
    What happens if I need to break the lease early?
    Please contact the leasing office to discuss early lease termination options and any applicable lease terms or fees.
    Does your community offer furnished apartments?
    No, all apartment homes come unfurnished.
    Rent, Utilities & Resident Portal
    When is rent due and how do I pay?

    Rent is due on the 1st and is considered late on the 4th. You may pay your rent online by visiting our resident portal. If you have further questions, you may contact our leasing office team. Resident Portal

    What are the accepted methods of rent payment?
    Paying your rent online via credit card, debit card, or direct debit (ACH) is quick and easy through our resident portal. We also accept e-money orders, personal checks, cashier’s checks, and money orders.
    What utilities are included in rent?
    Utilities are not included in rent at Gema. Residents are responsible for setting up and/or paying applicable utilities, which may include electric, water, sewer, trash, gas, internet, and cable.
    What utility companies do you use?
    Utility services for our community are provided by local utility companies in the area. Specific providers may vary depending on the apartment home and service type (electric, water, gas). Please contact the leasing office for detailed information about the utility companies servicing our community.
    What cable/internet providers are available?
    Cox and Spectrum are the cable and internet providers available at Gema. Residents may contact either provider directly to set up service for their apartment or townhome.
    How do residents submit maintenance requests?

    Residents may submit maintenance requests through the resident portal. For urgent maintenance needs, please contact the leasing office directly for assistance. Resident Portal

    Apartment & Townhome Features
    What types of floor plans are available at Gema San Diego?
    Gema San Diego offers spacious 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes and townhome-style floor plans in San Diego’s Cortez Hill neighborhood. Availability, layouts, and pricing may vary, so please contact the leasing office or visit our Floor Plans page for current options.
    Are the homes at Gema townhomes?
    Gema features townhome-style apartment homes designed with spacious layouts and a more residential feel in the heart of San Diego. Select floor plans may include multi-level layouts or townhome-inspired features. Please contact the leasing team to confirm details for a specific home.
    Is there in-home laundry?
    Yes, Gema offers in-home washer and dryer appliances. For details on specific apartment or townhome features, please visit our Amenities page or contact the leasing office. (add amenities page link)
    What appliances are included?
    Gema apartment homes include modern kitchen appliances. Specific appliances may vary by floor plan, but available features may include stainless steel appliances, dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, range, and in-home washer and dryer. Please contact the leasing office to confirm what is included in a specific home.
    Is there air conditioning/heating?
    Yes, Gema apartment homes include air conditioning and heating.
    Are there ceiling fans?
    No, Gema apartment homes do not include ceiling fans.
    Parking & Transportation
    Is there parking available? Is it free or paid?
    Yes, Gema offers reserved parking for residents for an additional monthly fee. Standard reserved parking is $100 per space, EV parking is $150 per space, and tandem parking is $150 per space.
    Are there EV charging stations?
    Yes, Gema offers 24 Level 2 EV charging stations for residents, making it easy to charge your electric vehicle right at the community.
    Amenities & Community Spaces
    What amenities are available at Gema San Diego?
    Gema offers a variety of amenities designed for everyday convenience, wellness, and relaxation, including a fitness center, pool, spa, outdoor grilling areas, controlled access, gated entry, and EV charging. Please visit our Amenities page or contact the leasing office for the most current amenity details.
    Does Gema have a pool or spa?
    Yes, Gema offers a pool and spa for residents to enjoy.
    Does Gema have a fitness center?
    Yes, Gema offers an on-site fitness center.
    Can I rent out amenity spaces for private events?
    While our amenities are available to all residents, we do not have any areas which can be rented for private events.
    Pets
    Are pets allowed at Gema San Diego?
    We welcome up to two pets per residence. Both cats and dogs are welcome, and we have a weight limit of 60 lbs. Breed restrictions apply.
    Are there breed or size restrictions?
    The following dog breeds are not allowed—Pit Bull, Staffordshire Terrier, Chow, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Presa Canario, Akita, Alaskan Malamute, and Wolf-hybrid. Qualified assistance animals are permitted regardless of breed.
    Neighborhood
    Where is Gema San Diego located?
    Gema San Diego is located at 1471 Eighth Avenue in Cortez Hill, a Downtown San Diego neighborhood known for its central location and residential feel.
    What neighborhood is Gema San Diego in?
    Gema is close to many of San Diego’s most popular destinations, including Little Italy, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, PETCO Park, the marina, restaurants, nightlife, and everyday conveniences.
    What is the Cortez Hill neighborhood like?
    Cortez Hill offers a quieter residential feel while still being close to Downtown San Diego dining, entertainment, parks, and major city destinations.
    Are there grocery stores, restaurants, or schools nearby?
    Yes, Gema is near local shopping, dining, schools, parks, and neighborhood services. Please contact the leasing office for more information about nearby conveniences.
    Is Gema close to public transportation or major freeways?
    Yes, Gema offers convenient access to public transportation and major San Diego freeways. The community is about a 10-minute walk from the 5th Avenue Trolley Station, which provides direct connections from Downtown San Diego to UTC and Mission Valley. Santa Fe Depot is about a 20-minute walk away, offering rail connections from Downtown San Diego to coastal North County and as far north as Los Angeles. For drivers, Gema is about 1 minute from I-5 and SR-163, 3 minutes from SR-94, and 6 minutes from I-15.
    Policies & Programs
    Is renter’s insurance required?
    Yes, renter’s insurance is required. For details, please contact our leasing office.
    What is the smoking policy?
    Gema is a smoke-free community. Smoking is not permitted in the apartment homes or community areas to help maintain a clean and comfortable living environment for residents.
    Does Gema have a resident referral program?
    Yes, Gema offers a resident referral program. Residents can receive a $250 referral reward when they refer someone who moves into the community. The referral reward is paid 60 days after the referred resident moves in.
    Does Gema host resident events?
    Gema hosts occasional resident events, grab-and-go treats, seasonal celebrations, pet-friendly events, and community gatherings.
    Management
    Who manages Gema San Diego?
    Gema San Diego is professionally managed by GL Partners Management, where we believe real communities begin with real connection.

    Find Your Home in Cortez Hill

    Thank you for reaching out! We’ll be in touch soon.

    Abstract flower shape outlined in purple with five large, wavy petals on a white background.
    Abstract flower shape outlined in purple with five large, wavy petals on a white background.
    Abstract flower shape outlined in purple with five large, wavy petals on a white background.