Best Neighborhoods in San Diego | Long Distance USA Movers

A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

America’s Finest City is home to 1.37 million people and a place that has been at the top of many lists when it comes to the quality of life. Therefore, finding the best neighborhoods in San Diego shouldn’t be too difficult since the second-largest city in California itself is amongst the most livable places in America.

San Diego's vibrant cityscape depicted with towering buildings, swaying palms, and the energy of urban life. The juxtaposition of nature and architecture captures the essence of this dynamic coastal city, where palm trees stand as sentinels against a backdrop of bustling structures, creating a harmonious blend of nature and modernity. Perfect for moving. overlay
Palms in San Diego

Depending on what you are looking for in your next neighborhood, here you can find great places for raising a family or outdoor thrill-seeking. If you are moving for a job or excellent educational opportunities, some places can give you just that. All you have to do is set your priorities and pick the location that suits your needs and desires.

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Del Mar Mesa Is the Safest Area in America’s Finest City

Moving to California brings many incredible places you can call home. Del Mar Mesa is definitely one of them. This semi-rural neighborhood with over 900 acres of wildlife habitats and 10 miles of hiking and biking trails might be your next address. If you don’t want to drive around all day long, this is a place for you, because here you can meet your new neighbors just by taking a walk.

With a population of more than 20,000 people, it is considered one of the best places to live in San Diego and the whole of California, not only because of the many parks and highly rated schools but the low crime rates, as well. Data from Niche states that current crime rates are way below the national average.

Discovering Urban Vibes in a Rural Location

Don’t let the vast open spaces fool you. Del Mar Mesa is a relatively modern community that has developed really quickly in the past 20 years. Many smaller locations lose their rural vibe over time, but Del Mar Mesa is designed to avoid that trend because of the county planning documents that state that this area will stay protected as an urban reserve.

With 67% of residents owning their homes, the median home value is $974,544. Think about this if you are planning on becoming a homeowner. The other 33% of people pay the median rent of $2,526.

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Owning a house in a low-crime area will provide peace of mind

Pacific Highland Ranch Is for Those with Deep Pockets

Pacific Highland Ranch has mostly been developed by a retail construction company Pardee Homes, and most of the houses were built in the 2000s. If you are going to relocate here, know that all homes have energy-saving options, and 49% of the land is preserved as a natural habitat, giving this community a suburban, eco-friendly vibe.

Have you thought about the cost of living in San Diego? Since housing is one of the crucial items here, you should know that getting a house in Pacific Highland Ranch is usually reserved for those with deep pockets. Here, 85% of residents own their homes, and the median home value is $1,082,568, while the rent is surprisingly low at only $985.

There Are Vast Spaces for Your Pets

When you relocate to Pacific Highland Ranch, don’t leave your bike in storage. With 2,650 acres of open space at your disposal, you could cycle all day long. Besides, there are golf courses, and if you are into tennis, you can enjoy private courts, spend a relaxing day by the swimming pools, or work up a sweat in fitness centers.

If you are moving with dogs, you will be happy to discover many green areas your furry friend can play in. Let them explore the neighborhood by running around Camel Creek Park, Ashley Falls, or any other green outdoor area.

Good Dining Options Keep Expanding

Are you thinking about packing dishes? If you are not a fan of home cooking, know that the number of dining options keeps expanding. Soon, residents can expect even more places that offer fine dining. And while cooking for yourself can be fun, it doesn’t stop you from putting on fancy shoes and going out every once in a while.

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Pets will have plenty of space to run around

North Park Is a Hipster Dream

Where to relocate is a question just as important as how to move. North Park has been named by Forbes magazine as one of the finest hipster neighborhoods in America and is also regarded as one of the most walkable ones. This title is perfectly justified because the area offers many craft breweries within walking distance of your affordable home. Beer lovers will feel at home here because they get to enjoy many different and exotic ales if they pay a visit to the Modern Times Brewery tasting room.

If you choose to move here, reserve your Saturday for Ray at Night, which is an evening art walk where you can visit many galleries and see outdoor performances. Making friends in a new city has never been easier – just stop by the Farmers Market or visit the North Park Music Festival, and you will find many friendly faces.

Enjoy the Unique Architecture That Reflects the Suburban Development

Besides the hipster vibe and small, cozy coffee shops and breweries, the thing that makes North Park unusual is the architecture. It represents a mix of many eras and styles.

Being one of the oldest neighborhoods in Sandi, North Park is a place where you can find Craftsman cottages, California bungalows from the early 20th century, as well as many Spanish revival homes that reflect the area’s unique suburban development. Also, many houses have been designed by the well-known builder and architect David Owen Dryden. The place offers its residents single-family houses, apartments, and business buildings.

Data from Zillow states that the median house value here is $623,700, which means that a square foot costs $542.

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Hipster dreams are craft breweries and cozy coffee shops

Hillcrest Is an LGBT-Friendly Neighborhood

The neighborhood is known for its tolerance and acceptance, and it has a very active LGBT community. With gender diversity and locally-owned bars, thrift shops, and restaurants, this is a great place for everybody that is looking for a liberal and open-minded spot to stay in. The fear of moving that you feel will fade away as soon as you step into Hillcrest.

Renting a one-bedroom flat will cost you $1750, while a two-bedroom place is $2400.

This is also a highly walkable neighborhood, so pack your good shoes and explore the new environment on foot. If you are not in the mood for walking, consider taking the bus that connects this location with the rest of the town.

Live the Best Life in San Diego and Experience the LGBT Culture

When you are done walking around University Ave, you should check out wine bars and nightclubs. If you are in the mood for some piano sessions, Martinis Above Fourth is a place worth visiting, and it hosts cabaret shows on weekends.

Stop by the country’s only openly gay brewery, Hillcrest Brewing Company, where you can taste some of the craft beers they make and enjoy a variety of events.

Live your best life while you attend the annual Pride celebration that attracts over 250,000 people.

A Guide to the Finest Restaurants

There are plenty of small and cozy bistros and cafes shops, but Hillcrest is also the place where you can find some of the best restaurants in San Diego. A mix of ethnic and global cuisine will amaze even the most seasoned foodies.

In the heart of Hillcrest, you can find Urban MO’s Bar & Grill, a burger place where you can kick back and enjoy brunch, drinks, or dinner. At Snooze: an A.M. Eatery, you can try red velvet pancakes and french toast, and if you are craving croissants, stop by Breakfast Bitch.

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Hillcrest is a haven for liberals and open-minded people

Solana Beach Is One of the Best Neighborhoods in San Diego for Families

Relocating with kids means you have to think about finding a safe, family-friendly area to settle down. Solana Beach is a small suburban neighborhood with only 13,000 people living in it, meaning you will have no trouble getting to know the locals and fitting in. It is only a 30-minute drive to downtown, so you should consider shipping your car when you relocate.

There are elementary, middle, and high schools that can provide your kids with an excellent education. When it comes to San Diego schools, the ones here are among the highest-rated in the county. Around 90% of high schoolers exceed state standards for English on the CAASPP exams on average. Also, 82% meet the standards for math.

Education is not the only thing that makes Solana Beach a suitable place to raise a family. A laid-back and active community is an additional bonus.

An Excellent Place to Eat and Drink at the Beach with Your Family

The location is near the beach, where you have plenty of places to take your kids for some family time. Fletcher Cove is an area with picnic tables, courts, and playgrounds. You can enjoy the sun and spend some quality time with your loved ones.

If you want to enjoy the beach view and be close to good schools, you will have to find a place to call home. More than half of the people here own their houses, and the median home price is over $1 million. The rent is $1,900, but the area makes up for high prices with average annual earnings of $104,000.

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Seaside fun is the best kind of fun

La Jolla Is a Jewel for Beach Enthusiasts

Due to its favorable location, La Jolla is one of the most popular places for students and those who are seeking to get away from the busy urban life. If you want to relocate here and join 72% of the local residents that own a house, you should know that the median home value is $1,480,000, while for rent, you will need $2,400.

La Jolla is located on the coastline that offers an amazing view. When thinking about where to live in California, this location should be on the top of your list since its popularity seems to be only growing.

Beach Activities Around Every Corner

Among the many exciting things to do in San Diego, water-related activities hold a special place. An average La Jolla resident spends a lot of time kayaking, whale watching, or surfing and taming the waves. When you feel like taking a break from the water, stop by many museums and art galleries, have lunch at some of the great restaurants, or pick up a golf club and indulge in sports. Whatever you choose to do, La Jolla will keep you busy and entertained.

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grab a board and catch some waves

San Marcos Is One of the Best Neighborhoods to Live in San Diego for Career Seekers

Relocating to San Marcos means you will be staying in a business hub. This place organizes incubator programs and is home to many new businesses. A strong commitment to the promotion of economic development is what attracts entrepreneurs, high-tech, recreation-oriented, and medical companies to this place.

With low unemployment rates, it is one of the fastest-growing areas in the county. Do you know how to get a job in a new city? If you do, this is the perfect place to start looking.

Excellent Medical Care Is Within Reach

You don’t have to worry about how to find a new doctor when you move – San Marcos has quality medical care. With local hospitals and clinics, you will have quick and easy access to top-notch medical care.

Not only that, but this community takes care of its residents and their health by giving them the chance to participate in many sports programs. You can play softball, soccer, or basketball and adopt an active lifestyle.

Good Educational Options Are Nearby

This is one of the largest school districts in the county, with 20 schools that offer diverse educational programs and with the largest student population in North County. If you are moving to San Diego in search of a good education, settling down in this community could be a smart move in the long run. The University of St. Augustine for Health Science as well as Palomar College are located here, allowing you to pick any educational program you wish.

Living in San Diego, CA

Relocating to this city might seem like a stressful and complicated task, even more so if you decide to take care of the relocation all by yourself. But if you pick reliable San Diego movers to help you, you will get to enjoy every step of the way, and especially the final result – making your California dream come true.

Living in America’s Finest City promises so many adventures, like the chance to visit the largest oceanographic museum in the states, or stop by the Zoo and see some of 3,700 animals there.

Get in touch with your outdoor roots by buying a farm – after all, they are pretty popular here.

Whatever Sandi neighborhood you choose to live in, the critical part is that you are happy with it and that you have a chance to explore the town and everything it has to offer, bit by bit.

Blake Shaw

Bostonian and residential moving and packing expert. Blake Shaw enjoys bar-hopping, music, and writing insightful content.


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