Budget friendly options in or near San Diego

Would like to move to San Diego next year. What are some semi budget friendly places that are also safe? Budget for me would be 2k rent so around 2.5k after all utilities and other fees.

I wouldn’t necessarily mind if it’s further out from the major areas. It’s a cross country move for me, so just trying to get my footing down first.

Safety is my number one priority. I understand budget is inversely related to safeness. Just want to see if there are some less well known spots or up and coming spots from native San Diegans!