In 2019, San Diego’s population increased by 13,000 people. It’s no surprise thanks to its all-year-round fantastic weather, golden beaches, and great surf.
Perhaps you’re planning to move but you aren’t sure which San Diego neighborhood is best for you and your family. Sound familiar? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s a break-down of every San Diego neighborhood.
North Park
If you’re looking for one of the nicest neighborhoods in San Diego, consider North Park. It’s the trendy part of the city where you can find craft beer, sushi, and boutiques to keep you entertained.
You can also visit art galleries and a weekly farmers’ market to get fresh, local produce.
Carlsbad
On the San Diego neighborhood map, Carlsbad is located 35-miles north of downtown. Carlsbad is known for its beautiful beaches, walkable “village”, and excellent schools, making it a favorite for families.
Plus, it’s home to LEGOLAND California where the little ones can enjoy their weekend.
Encinitas
One of the best neighborhoods in San Diego for bohemian minded people. Moonlight and Swami’s are fantastic beaches and you can grab a bite at Coast Highway 101 where you’ll find restaurants, shops, and cafés.
Spend the afternoon discovering new plant species at the San Diego Botanic Garden or play golf at the Encinitas Ranch Golf Course.
Carmel Valley
Out of the safest neighborhoods in San Diego, Carmel Valley takes the top spot. Carmel Valley is a planned community and their homes are more expensive than other places so consider this when booking house viewings.
Many families find Carmel Valley appealing because of the exclusive public schools and proximity to biotech jobs in Sorrento Valley. There’s also a variety of excellent restaurants and even have a luxury cinema, great on weekends.
La Jolla
One of the best neighborhoods to live in San Diego is La Jolla. Here, you’ll find the most picturesque beaches like La Jolla Shores and Windansea Beach, a mere 14-miles north of downtown.
La Jolla is loved by outdoorsy people as you can surf, snorkel, and hike along the popular hiking trails of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
If you’re interested in this part of San Diego, contact La Jolla real estate for more information on properties.
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is a casual neighborhood with a boardwalk and a relaxed atmosphere. Although it’s popular with a younger crowd, head to the northern area which is more suburban and has Kate Sessions Park, a stunning green space with sea views.
It’s also a great spot where you can enjoy everything from Mexican street food to classic French cuisine, depending on your mood.
Mission Hills
Mostly residential, Mission Hills offers entertainment for everyone. Head to Pioneer Park where the kids can enjoy the playground and visit the Mission Hills Nursery to take a stroll amidst the succulents and fruit trees.
There are also fantastic restaurants where you can spend an afternoon in a café or a trendy cocktail bar.
Hillcrest
Hillcrest is central to the LGBTQ+ community and has gorgeous Spanish-style and Craftsman homes. You can take the kids to the San Diego Zoo or spend the afternoon at Balboa Park, easily accessible by the freeways.
Don’t forget to visit the Hillcrest farmers market on Sunday to get your fresh produce for the week.
Little Italy
Little Italy is popular with residents and tourists alike. It’s a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood that has a great nightlife and the best restaurants.
There’s also the Waterfront Park that has playgrounds and splash foundation where you can enjoy the greenery. You must also visit the busy Mercato, or farmer’s market, on the weekends, and refuel on healthy food.
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter is a 16-block district downtown that’s home to many of San Diego’s cultural delights like the New Children’s Museum, Balboa Theatre, and San Diego Chinese Historical Museum.
Horton Plaza Park also shouldn’t go amiss where you can grab a bite and spend the afternoon shopping.
East Village
East Village is a downtown neighborhood that has a mix of modern high-rises and beautiful Victorian-era homes. Most people visit because of Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres, where you can dine in the many restaurants surrounding it.
You can also spend the weekend visiting clothing boutiques and the Central Library where you can find an art gallery.
Ocean Beach
Located north of Point Loma, Ocean Beach is brimming with surf shops, yoga studios, and OB dog beach where your pup can enjoy splashing in the sea.
There are also great outdoor cafés where you can fill up on fish tacos and burgers. Even if you don’t buy property here, visit Ocean Beach to experience a quintessential SoCal beach town.
Coronado
Coronado is renowned for its multimillion-dollar homes and excellent seafood eateries. Perfect for outdoor activities, you can cycle the Silver Strand, take a stroll along Coronado Beach, and go paddleboarding in Glorietta Bay.
And don’t miss out on Orange Avenue where you can enjoy a wide selection of cafés and boutiques.
South Park
Head south of Balboa Park, and you’ll find South Park, a charming residential area. There are many Craftsman homes and indie boutiques for you to discover.
There’s a quarterly event called the South Park Walkabout where shops and eateries host live music, giveaways, and food specials.
Your San Diego Neighborhood Guide
We hope you’ve learned something about each San Diego neighborhood in this guide and the main characteristics of each.
There’s something for everyone in San Diego whether you’re looking for reputable schools or a trendy neighborhood. Most have stunning beaches, great eateries, and plenty of activities that are suitable for both children and adults.
To ensure you get a fantastic property, find a reputable real estate agency to find the home of your dreams. Good luck!
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