San Diego Neighborhoods – The Complete Guide

For those who have never visited San Diego, it is easy to think of the city as a single place. In reality, San Diego is a sprawling county that encompasses dozens of neighborhoods and even a few cities within the county. In this list, I am attempting to cover the many differing San Diego neighborhoods both large and small. Some areas may only cover a few small blocks. Others, like Encinitas, Poway, Del Marc, etc. are technically their own cities within San Diego County.

Each section below begins with the neighborhood name, followed by a brief description of the area and what it is known for. This article is a work in progress, and I will be circling back to it regularly to update San Diego neighborhoods I missed and to freshen up the description of each area. I will also be creating a map of San Diego neighborhoods which will be published at a future date.

san diego neighborhoods

Join me as we dive into this comprehensive list of the many unique areas, communities, and neighborhoods that make San Diego such an amazing place to call home.

San Diego Neighborhoods – A Complete List

Adams North – A sub-neighborhood of Normal Heights known for its charming Craftsman homes and a strong sense of community. Adams Ave is the main street here, running East/West through multiple neighborhoods including Normal Heights, University Heights, etc.

Allied Gardens – Offers a suburban feel with its mid-century homes and community-oriented atmosphere. It is situated with San Carlos to the east, Del Cerro to the south, the College Area to the southeast, and Grantville to the southwest.

Alta Vista – Known for its quiet residential streets and proximity to local schools and parks. Alta Vista is just east of National City, and in an area where home values are considered more affordable.

Alvarado Estates – A gated community within the College Area, known for its spacious lots and luxurious homes. Situated just east of Kensington and south of the 8 freeway, there are approximately 100 homes here, each sited in a 1+ acre lot, which is large by San Diego standards.

Balboa Park – Centered around the iconic Balboa Park, this area is known for its cultural institutions, museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, offering a rich blend of history, nature, and entertainment.

A typical sunny, San Diego afternoon scene in scenic Balboa Park. The park is adjacent to several popular neighborhoods including North Park, South Park, Hillcrest, and Banker’s Hill.

Banker’s Hill – Known for its historic homes, stunning views of Balboa Park and Downtown, and a mix of modern and classical architecture. Banker’s Hill is a unique mix of urban and suburban life. It is a smaller scale, more intimate version of downtown, with easy access to all of downtown.

Barrio Logan – A vibrant neighborhood rich in Chicano culture, art, and history, featuring the famous Chicano Park, which had its origins in non-violent protest in the 1970’s. This unique community is home to a naval base and NASSCO shipyard. Despite its industrial and commercial areas, it also offers residential homes in close proximity to downtown. Many former industrial facilities have been replaced by breweries, taco shops, coffee roasters, and art galleries.

Bay Ho – A residential neighborhood known for its mid-century homes and suburban feel, Bay Ho offers a quiet atmosphere with easy access to nearby coastal areas and major freeways. Both Bay Ho and its southern neighbor Bay Park are just west of Clairemont.

Bay Park – Overlooking Mission Bay, Bay Park is popular for its scenic views, laid-back vibe, and proximity to parks, restaurants, and outdoor recreational activities. Mission Bay is within view or a short ride away from many of the homes in this popular neighborhood. Both Bay Ho and Bay Park are popular for those with commutes in the central/coastal parts of San Diego.

bay park real estate
Bay Park is situated on a mostly elevated hillside overlooking Mission Bay

Bay Terraces – Divided into North and South sections, this area is known for its affordable housing options and community parks. Situated just east of Alta Vista and National City.

Beach Barber Tract – Known for its historic homes and charming, beachside atmosphere, Beach Barber Tract offers a mix of architectural styles and easy access to the beautiful oceanfront along La Jolla.

Bird Rock – A coastal neighborhood with a more laid-back vibe than the Village of La Jolla to the north, Bird Rock is famous for its surf spots, boutique shops, and community events. It is situated just north of Pacific Beach.

La Jolla Homes For Sale

Birdland – Centrally located with easy access to major freeways, this neighborhood is known for its medical facilities and quiet streets. Birdland is situated in a triangle between the 163 and 805 freeways, and just west of Serra Mesa. The streets here are aptly named after various birds.

Black Mountain Ranch – A master-planned community with upscale homes, scenic parks, and proximity to top-rated schools. Black Mountain Ranch is northwest of Black Mountain Open Space Park, a popular local hiking destination and park area.

Broadway Heights – A very small, close-knit community known for its strong neighborhood pride and local initiatives. It is situated in a small pocket just north of Mallard Street and southwest of Lemon Grove.

Burlingame – A historic district within North Park, famous for its early 20th-century homes and tree-lined streets.

Carmel Mountain – Known for its family-friendly environment, shopping centers, and top-rated schools.

Carmel Valley – A master-planned community known for its top-rated schools, family-friendly environment, and convenient access to shopping and dining. Homes in Carmel Valley are relatively new construction when compared with many of San Diego’s longer-established neighborhoods. Homes here were developed in phases, with many of the homes in each neighborhood maintaining a high degree of similarity. Popular with working families in part due to the very well-regarded schools, and good commute access to several popular business hubs.

Carmel Valley Homes for Sale
carmel valley san diego real estate
A quintessential scene for Carmel Valley, with hot air ballons soaring overhead.

Castle – Part of City Heights, known for its diverse population and community activities. Castle is situated in the northwest portion of City Heights, close to the 15 freeway.

Cherokee Park – A sub-neighborhood of Normal Heights, characterized by its small community park and residential charm.

Cherokee Point – Part of City Heights, known for its community efforts and revitalization projects. Cherokee Point is in a triangle formed where the 15 and 805 freeways cross each other, just east of the trendy North Park community.

Chollas Creek – Features natural creek areas and is part of the City Heights community, known for its environmental efforts. This area was affected by the rare, heavy rains of 2024, resulting in flooding and many area residents being impacted and displaced.

Chollas View – A diverse neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Chollas View is situated just north of Lincoln park.

Clairemont – Offers a suburban feel with its mid-century homes and proximity to shopping centers and parks. Clairemont is considered a more affordable option for otherwise very expensive coastal and near-coastal neighborhoods of San Diego.

College Area – Home to San Diego State University, this area is bustling with student life and local businesses. The College Area is home to both some multifamily housing along with areas of primarily single-family homes.

Colina del Sol – Known for its large park and recreational facilities within the City Heights area. Colina Del Sol or “Slopes of the Sun” is considered a more affordable neighborhood.

Columbia – A part of Downtown, known for its high-rise condos and proximity to the waterfront.

Core – The central business district of Downtown, is filled with office buildings, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Coronado – Famous for its pristine and seemingly never-ending beaches, historic Hotel Del Coronado, and charming small-town feel, Coronado offers a luxurious coastal lifestyle. Coronado is another example of an independent city within San Diego county’s footprint. For more insights into this lovely, seaside community please see my Coronado Neighborhood Guide.

Coronado Homes for Sale
top 3 coronado island activities

Corridor – A small area within City Heights, characterized by its mixed-use development and community activities.

Cortez Hill – One of Downtown’s oldest residential neighborhoods, known for its historic buildings and scenic views. Perhaps best known for the El Cortez Hotel (no longer a hotel, it is now home to many residences). Cortez Hill is seen on your left when flying in on a typical landing approach at San Diego’s International Airport. It is adjacent to Little Italy, Downtown/Gaslamp District, and Balboa Park.

Country Club – An upscale area surrounding the La Jolla Country Club, known for its luxurious homes and scenic golf course views.

Civita – A modern, master-planned community in Mission Valley, known for its sustainable design and urban parks. Civita is one of the most recent residential developments in San Diego.

Del Mar – Known for its beautiful beaches, the Del Mar Racetrack, and upscale living, Del Mar combines coastal charm with a vibrant community. Del Mar is just north of La Jolla, and shares some similarities with its neighbor to the south. Homes here are known to be expensive, and inventory in Del Mar tends to be significantly lower than La Jolla, due in part to its small area.

Del Mar Homes for Sale

Del Mar Heights – Offers stunning ocean views, upscale homes, and close proximity to shopping and dining in a serene residential setting.

Del Mar Mesa – Known for its large estates, equestrian facilities, and open space preserves, Del Mar Mesa offers a rural feel with luxury living.

Del Cerro – Offers suburban living with scenic views and proximity to Mission Trails Regional Park. I would describe Del Cerro as not coastal and also not east county. Its location is considered very convenient, with easy access to the 8 freeway and multiple options to travel north or south easily.

Downtown – The urban core of San Diego, featuring a mix of high-rise condos, businesses, and cultural attractions. Downtown San Diego continues to grow, change and revitalize, a long-term trend over the last few decades. Although not a huge downtown by metropolitan city standards, Downtown San Diego has a scenic waterfront, Petco Park, numerous sub-neighborhoods and countless dining and entertainment options.

Downtown Condos For Sale
downtown san diego real estate

East Village – A rapidly developing area in Downtown, known for Petco Park and a vibrant arts scene.

Egger Highlands – A quiet, residential neighborhood close to the coast and the Tijuana River Valley. Egger Highlands is situated south of Chula Vista and just east of Imperial Beach.

El Cerrito – Known for its mid-century homes and proximity to San Diego State University.

Emerald Hills – A residential area with rolling hills and views of the city, known for its community involvement. Emerald Hills is situated just east of Chollas View and north of Valencia Park.

Encanto – Offers a mix of urban and suburban living with its diverse population and somewhat larger residential lots.

Encinitas – A coastal community known for its surf culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant downtown area filled with shops and restaurants. Encinitas is one of the more sought after neighborhoods in North County.

Encinitas Homes for Sale
The quaint seaside village of Encinitas attracts locals, surfers and tourists alike.

Fairbanks Ranch – An exclusive gated community in Rancho Santa Fe known for its luxurious estates, equestrian facilities, and country club amenities.

Fairmount Park – Part of City Heights, known for its hilly terrain and community parks.

Fairmount Village – A diverse neighborhood within City Heights, known for its active community organizations.

Fox Canyon – Known for its efforts in community development and green spaces within City Heights.

Gaslamp Quarter – A historic district in Downtown San Diego, famous for its Victorian architecture, nightlife, and cultural events, offering a lively urban experience. The Gaslamp neighborhood is more associated with restaurants and clubs than residences.

Downtown Condos For Sale
San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is renowned for its nightlife, attracting locals and tourists.

Gateway – A small part of Fairmount Park, known for its proximity to major transit routes.

Golden Hill – A historic neighborhood with Victorian homes and a vibrant arts scene. Golden Hill, named for the way it glows during sunset, is an elevated neighborhood adjacent to South Park and the East Village.

Grant Hill – Known for its historic homes and scenic views of Downtown and the bay.

Grantville – A centrally located neighborhood with a mix of commercial and residential areas.

Harborview – Part of Downtown San Diego, known for its proximity to the waterfront and scenic views.

Hidden Valley – Tucked away in the hills of La Jolla, Hidden Valley offers privacy and expansive properties with lush landscaping and stunning views. Many of the homes in this area are situated along the relatively steep slopes of Soledad Mountain.

Hillcrest – Known for its LGBTQ+ community, eclectic shops, and vibrant nightlife. Hillcrest has both apartment and single-family living and enjoys close proximity to Balboa Park and downtown.

Hollywood Park – Part of City Heights, known for its residential charm and community parks.

Hotel Circle – A major commercial area in Mission Valley, known for its hotels and proximity to tourist attractions. There is minimal residential housing in this area.

Islenair – A small, historic residential area within City Heights, known for its canyon views and charming older homes. Islenair is a city-designated historic district.

Jamacha – A residential area with a diverse population and close-knit community feel.

Kearny Mesa – Known for its business parks, Asian dining options, and central location. Most of Kearny Mesa is commercial, however there are small areas of residential housing, and nearby residential neighborhoods like Birdland and Serra Mesa.

Kensington – A charming neighborhood with Spanish-style homes, historic charm, and a tight-knit community. Kensington enjoys easy access to the 8 freeway. Its minimal routes in and out enhance the very special neighborhood feel of this area.

Lake Murray – Offers recreational opportunities with its large reservoir and park areas. Lake Murray is adjacent to Del Cerro, just north of the 8 freeway and slightly northeast of the College Area (SDSU).

La Playa – A coastal neighborhood in Point Loma, known for its scenic views and luxurious homes. As you enter Point Loma via Rosecrans, La Playa is the last area you reach before arriving at the submarine base. Kellog Beach is one of the only sand beaches on San Diego Bay and is found in La Playa.

Point Loma Homes for Sale

La Jolla – Renowned for its picturesque coastline, upscale shops and restaurants, and prestigious university, La Jolla offers a blend of natural beauty and sophistication. La Jolla is also home to Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty’s global headquarters (and my office). For more details on this wonderful seaside community, check out my La Jolla Neighborhood Guide.

La Jolla Homes For Sale
Beautiful, hilltop houses in La Jolla, California

La Jolla Alta – Perched on the hills, La Jolla Alta is known for its panoramic ocean views and upscale residential communities.

La Jolla Farms – A prestigious enclave with sprawling estates and proximity to the University of California San Diego, the scenic glider port, and the Torrey Pines Golf Course. This neighborhood is home to some of the most expensive and largest luxury homes in San Diego County.

La Jolla Homes For Sale

La Jolla Heights – Located near the university, La Jolla Heights offers a mix of modern homes and easy access to cultural and academic amenities. The area is just south of UCSD and west of the 5 freeway.

La Jolla Mesa – Known for its elevated position, La Jolla Mesa provides stunning ocean views and a serene residential setting. This neighborhood is in the foothills southwest of Mount Soledad.

La Jolla Shores – A popular area for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts, La Jolla Shores features a top-ranked sandy beach, beachfront homes, and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

La Jolla Village – The commercial heart of La Jolla, this area is known for its shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, including art galleries and museums. Also home to my office. ; )

La Jolla Homes For Sale

Soledad South – Nestled on the slopes of Mount Soledad, this neighborhood offers breathtaking views and a mix of contemporary and traditional homes

Sorrento Valley – Known for its tech industry presence and proximity to UC San Diego, Sorrento Valley offers a mix of business and residential living.

La Mesa – Known as the “Jewel of the Hills,” La Mesa offers a charming downtown village, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Mt Helix is a well known landmark and park, and some of the more spectacular homes of La Mesa are situated on and around the mountain.

La Mesa Homes For Sale

Linda Vista – Known for its cultural diversity, educational institutions, and recreational facilities. Linda Vista is adjacent to the University of San Diego, and enjoys convenient access to the 163 and 8 freeways, and is relatively close to the coast.

Little Italy – A lively neighborhood in Downtown, famous for its Italian heritage, dining, farmers market, cafes, festivals, and, of course, gelato! Almost all the residences here are in low-rise or high-rise developments, including the Savina building, by the prolific developer, Bosa.

Downtown Condos For Sale
A typical scene in beautiful Little Italy in downtown San Diego

Logan Heights – Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and community initiatives.

Lower Hermosa – A tranquil neighborhood with elegant homes and close proximity to the beach in La Jolla, Lower Hermosa is prized for its exclusivity and charm.

Marina – A waterfront area in Downtown San Diego, known for its luxury condos and scenic parks. Not surprisingly, the Marina district is very close to San Diego’s waterfront amenities.

Marston Hills – A sub-neighborhood of Hillcrest, known for its historic homes and proximity to Balboa Park.

Memorial – A small neighborhood within Logan Heights, known for its community spirit and local parks.

Middletown – Centrally located with a mix of residential and commercial properties, Middletown offers easy access to Downtown and the airport. This area is just east of India St and situated at the southern end of Mission Hills.

Mira Mesa – A large suburban area known for its parks, shopping centers, diverse community, and family-friendly environment.

Miramar – Known for the Marine Corps Air Station and its commercial and industrial areas. Other than Military housing, there is minimal residential housing here until you go slightly north into Mira Mesa.

Miramar Ranch North – A family-friendly neighborhood with planned communities and scenic parks.

Mission Beach – A lively beachfront neighborhood known for its boardwalk, Belmont Park, and vibrant nightlife. Mission Beach has a large number of vacation rentals. The area features the ocean to the west and Mission Bay to the east. The area has a high density area of residential housing and is situated north of Ocean Beach and south of Pacific Beach.

Mission Hills – Known for its historic homes, scenic views, and upscale living. One of my personal favorite San Diego neighborhoods, and one I called home for many years. Mission Hills is a unique blend of easy access to downtown, freeways, etc. that somehow feels like a historic small town from the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. Charming homes with a diverse mix of styles, although Craftsman and Spanish style architecture predominate. For more details on this vibrant San Diego neighborhood, check out my Mission Hills Neighborhood Guide.

Mission Hills Homes for Sale
mission hills homes for sale

Mission Valley East – A commercial hub with shopping centers, residential complexes, and easy freeway access. Some residential areas as well.

Mission Valley West – Offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas with major shopping centers.

Montclair – A sub-neighborhood of North Park, known for its residential charm and community-oriented feel.

Mount Helix – Known for its panoramic views, custom homes, and artistic community, Mount Helix offers a unique blend of rural and suburban living. Mount Helix is most associated with La Mesa, and El Cajon to the east.

Mount Hope – Known for its historic cemetery and community efforts in revitalization.

Mountain View – A diverse residential area with community parks and local schools.

Muirlands – Featuring large, luxurious homes on spacious lots, Muirlands is known for its winding streets and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Muirlands West – A sub-area of Muirlands, Muirlands West offers similar upscale living with a strong sense of community and picturesque surroundings.

Nestor – A residential neighborhood in South San Diego, known for its family-friendly environment and local amenities. Nestor is named after the state assemblyman Nestor A Young from the late 1800’s. The neighborhood is also home to South Bay Salt Works, the second longest-running business in San Diego (the San Diego Union Tribune is the longest-running).

Normal Heights – Known for its eclectic shops, historic homes, and vibrant community events. Numerous restaurants, craft brewers, and cafes are found within this neighborhood. Trolley Barn Park is a popular park that sometimes hosts summertime concerts.

North Park – A trendy area known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and historic homes. Unlike several commercial areas popular for craft breweries, North Park also has ample residential multi-family and single family housing options. It is considered one of the more walkable San Diego neighborhoods.

One end of San Diego’s popular North Park neighborhood, filled with restaurants, cafes, breweries and more.

Oak Park – A residential area known for its strong community spirit and local parks. Oak Park is also home to the 16 acre Chollas Lake and its surrounding park area.

Ocean Beach – A laid-back, bohemian neighborhood known for its sandy beaches, eclectic shops, and lively nightlife. Housing in OB ranges from higher density apartments closer to Newport Avenue, to sprawling oceanfront estates along Sunset Cliffs.

Ocean Beach Homes for Sale
ocean beach san diego real estate

Ocean View Hills / Ocean Crest – A newer residential development in south San Diego known for its modern homes and family-friendly environment. Ocean View Hills was developed in 1998, making it one of the newer communities in San Diego.

Old Town – The historic heart of San Diego, known for its preserved architecture, museums, and vibrant Mexican culture. Old Town is almost entirely in the 92110 zip code, and is situated between Point Loma and Mission Hills.

O’Farrell (South Encanto) – Known for its residential charm and community efforts in development.

Otay Mesa – An industrial and residential area known for its proximity to the US-Mexico border and commercial growth.

Otay Mesa West – A residential area with a mix of housing options and community parks.

Palm City – A small residential South Bay neighborhood known for its quiet streets and community feel. Named for the palms lining Palm Avenue, Palm City is also served by the San Diego Trolley line.

Paradise Hills – A diverse residential neighborhood in southeastern San Diego known for its parks and community activities.

Point Loma – Offers stunning coastal views, historic landmarks, and a mix of residential areas and marina facilities. I am biased since I have called Point Loma home for close to two decades, however, I believe Point Loma has the best views in all of San Diego. Check out my comprehensive Point Loma Neighborhood Guide for more details on this amazing San Diego neighborhood.

Point Loma Homes for Sale
The spectacular downtown and bay views from Point Loma are hard to replicate anywhere else

Poway – Known as “The City in the Country,” Poway offers a rural atmosphere with excellent schools, parks, and equestrian trails. Poway offers generally larger, more spacious lots and increased privacy when compared with most San Diego neighborhoods.

Poway Homes for Sale

Rancho Bernardo – A master-planned community known for its golf courses, parks, and family-friendly environment. Convenient freeway access via the 15.

Rancho Encantada / Stonebridge Estates – An upscale residential area known for its large homes and scenic surroundings. This neighborhood is just east of Scripps Ranch and south of Poway.

Rancho Peñasquitos – Offers suburban living with rolling hills, parks, and top-rated schools. Easy access to the 15 freeway.

Rancho Santa Fe – An affluent community known for its luxurious estates, private golf courses, and rural ambiance. Most lots here exceed an acre, and homes here are often some of the most expensive homes in San Diego County.

Rancho Santa Fe Homes for Sale
rancho santa fe california real estate

Redwood Village – A small residential area in the mid-city area of San Diego known for its community initiatives and green spaces.

Ridgeview – Known for its residential charm and efforts in community development.

Rolando Park – A family-friendly neighborhood known for its local parks and community events.

Rolando Village – Offers a suburban feel with its residential charm and community involvement.

San Carlos – Known for its proximity to Mission Trails Regional Park and family-friendly environment.

San Elijo Hills – A master-planned community known for its top-rated schools, extensive trails, and family-friendly amenities. Homes here are primarily two story, newer construction homes.

A glimpse of relatively new construction homes lining the picturesque hills of San Elijo Hills,

San Pasqual Valley – A beautiful rural area known for its agricultural activities and scenic landscapes. San Pasqual Valley is at the northern end of San Diego County, and is also home to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. This valley tends to be hotter in the summer and colder in the winter when compared to most San Diego areas.

San Ysidro – A border community known for its cultural diversity and commercial areas. San Ysidro is the fourth busiest border crossing globally.

Scripps Ranch – Known for its mature trees, community events, and suburban feel. Scripps Ranch is east of the 15 freeway, but still feels accessible to many parts of San Diego. The area is situated just east of Miramar.

Serra Mesa – Known for its central location, residential charm, and access to major freeways and business districts. This San Diego neighborhood is right above Snapdragon Stadium and Mission Valley, and is also close to Kearny Mesa and several major freeways.

Shelltown – A residential neighborhood known for its community initiatives and local parks.

Sherman Heights – One of San Diego’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its historic homes and cultural diversity.

Solana Beach – A coastal community known for its arts scene, boutique shops, and scenic beaches. Solana Beach is just north of Del Mar and south of Encinitas.

South Park – A trendy area below North Park known for its historic homes, indie shops, and vibrant community events.

Southcrest – A residential area known for its community involvement and local amenities.

Sorrento Valley – Known for its tech industry presence and proximity to UC San Diego and natural reserves.

Sunset Cliffs – Famous for its dramatic ocean views, natural cliffs, and sunset vistas, Sunset Cliffs offers a picturesque coastal living experience. Most of the homes in this area are either directly oceanfront or oceanview.

Ocean Beach Homes for Sale
san diego home prices by neighborhood
One of many oceanfront homes overlooking some of the most scenic coastline and sunsets in San Diego.

Swan Canyon – Part of City Heights, known for its efforts in canyon preservation and community activities.

Talmadge – A historic neighborhood known for its beautiful Spanish Revival homes.

Tierrasanta – Known for its suburban feel, excellent schools, and proximity to Mission Trails Regional Park. Most of Tierrasanta has easy access to the 15 freeway.

Torrey Highlands – A family-friendly neighborhood just east of Carmel Valley, known for its top-rated schools, parks, and convenient location near major freeways.

Torrey Hills – Offers a mix of residential communities and business parks, known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to amenities.

Torrey Pines – Known for its scenic state reserve, golf course, and stunning coastal views, Torrey Pines offers a serene and upscale living experience.

University City – A vibrant community known for its proximity to UC San Diego, diverse housing options, and convenient access to shopping and dining.

University Heights – A historic neighborhood known for its charming bungalows, vibrant arts scene, and community events.

Upper Hermosa – La Jolla sub-neighborhood, known for its quiet, tree-lined streets and beautiful homes. Upper Hermosa is a desirable residential area with a close-knit community feel.

Village of La Jolla – The vibrant center of La Jolla, the Village is renowned for its walkability, oceanfront parks, and bustling shopping and dining scene.

La Jolla Homes For Sale

What Are the Best San Diego Neighborhoods?

I tend to cringe a bit when people pose this question. The best neighborhood in San Diego is often determined by factors like what you can afford, where you work, if you have kids in school, and many other factors.

I wrote an article that breaks down San Diego home prices by neighborhood. Although the article covers several popular neighborhoods, it is intended to be a more general tool that compares affordability in different areas. It can give you a quick sense of both more affordable San Diego neighborhoods and some of the most expensive areas as well.

Some buyers factor in crime levels to evaluate the best San Diego neighborhoods. I have found this crime mapping tool recommended by the City of San Diego to be a valuable resource for clients comparing criminal activity in different areas. Although it can be distressing to see how much crime is reported throughout the county, it can provide a more objective look at which areas are considered safe San Diego neighborhoods.

Did I Miss Your Neighborhood?

I hope this comprehensive list of San Diego neighborhoods helped you. If I missed your favorite San Diego neighborhood, or if you feel the description could use an update, correction, or addition, please let me know! Simply send an email to the email address noted on the bottom left of this page.

Selling or Buying a Home in San Diego?

If you are considering buying or selling a home in San Diego and are looking for solid, conscientious advice from an experienced agent, please consider me a resource. Please reach out to me if you would like to discuss your real estate goals and plans.

Selling or Buying a Home Outside of San Diego?

Even if you are not in San Diego, I regularly refer people to outstanding Sotheby’s International Realty agents as a free courtesy, whether you are an existing client of mine or not. Our network encompasses 25,000+ sales associates in 1,000 offices throughout 70+ countries. Please let me know if I might be able to assist you with a real estate agent referral.

Special thanks to Wikipedia for providing many of the San Diego communities mentioned here. Are you curious about home values? You can also find market data and stats for several of these San Diego neighborhoods in my neighborhood stats section.

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About Marc Lyman

Marc Lyman gets results and his proven track record and client reviews leave little doubt. Marc grew up in Silicon Valley and graduated from UC San Diego in 1995 with a BA in Political Science and a minor in Psychology. Marc is known for his exemplary marketing, uncompromising ethics, and professionalism. His proactive approach helps ensure smooth transactions, with your interests always first and foremost. Marc's tenacious attitude, strong background in deal-making, and seasoned negotiation skills are tempered with a strategic, personable, and diplomatic approach. Contact Marc to facilitate your real estate success!