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Amara Berg
Amara Berg has been helping clients buy & sell real estate since 2011. She's a licensed Realtor with Exp Realty of California, an active member of Porchlight So Cal and residential and multi-family real estate investor and flipper in San Diego, CA.
The top 5 Neighborhoods in San Diego in 2024
Come explore the top 5 neighborhoods in San Diego for 2024. These areas are rated by not only demographics and sales but my personal experience in living in and selling these areas.
In This Article
1. Del Cerro (Includes San Carlos and Allied Gardens)
Top Schools, Large homes, and a community pool keeps Del Cerro (and neighboring Allied Gardens and San Carlos) number 1 for San diego neighborhoods
Del Cerro is a hillside community in central San Diego located just North of the 8 freeway across from San Diego State University. The community it centrally located and many of the homes boasts gorgeous views of the valley due to it’s elevation and steep hills. Del Cerro has some of the top public schools in San Diego including the award winning Hearst Elementary and the local high school Patrick Henry.
Location: Del Cerro is a neighborhood located in eastern San Diego, California. It is situated on the eastern edge of Mission Valley and is known for its hilly terrain and beautiful views.
Real Estate Market: Del Cerro offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and condos. The real estate market in the area is desirable, with a mix of well-established homes, some fully renovated and some a bit more dated. As of August 2023, the median home price in Del Cerro was $1,200,000.00
Amenities and Recreation: Del Cerro residents enjoy easy access to recreational opportunities, such as hiking trails in nearby Mission Trails Regional Park. The neighborhood is also well-served by retail centers, restaurants, and schools, making it an attractive choice for families.
Schools: Del Cerro is served by the San Diego Unified School District, which offers several highly-rated public and private schools in the area. Families looking for quality education for their children will find a range of options to choose from.
Community and Safety: Del Cerro has a strong sense of community, with active neighborhood associations and regular community events. The area is generally considered safe, with low crime rates and a strong presence of law enforcement.
Transportation: Del Cerro is conveniently located near major freeways, including Interstate 8, providing easy access to other parts of San Diego County. Public transportation options, such as bus services, are also available for those who prefer not to drive.
Appreciation Potential: Del Cerro’s real estate market has shown a history of stable property values, making it an attractive choice for potential home buyers. It also presents opportunities for investment and potential appreciation over time.
2. Kensington
Kensington is our number 2 neighborhood in San Diego for 2024
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Location: Kensington is located in central San Diego, just east of the downtown area. It is bordered by the neighborhoods of Normal Heights to the west, City Heights to the south, and Talmadge to the east.
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Architectural Style: One of the notable features of Kensington is its unique architectural style. The neighborhood is known for its Spanish Revival and Mediterranean-style homes, including charming cottages and Spanish colonial mansions. the median home price in Kensington as of August 2023 was $1,500,000
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Kensington Park: At the heart of the neighborhood lies Kensington Park, a beautiful green space where residents can enjoy picnics, walk their dogs, or play sports. The park is also home to the Kensington Community Church, a historic landmark in the area.
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Adams Avenue: Kensington is connected to nearby neighborhoods by its bustling main street, Adams Avenue. This street is lined with a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering residents and visitors plenty of options to explore.
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Community Spirit: The Kensington-Talmadge area is known for its strong sense of community. The neighborhood has an active community association that organizes various events throughout the year, such as block parties, parades, and holiday celebrations.
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Accessibility: Kensington is conveniently located near major transportation routes, including Interstate 15 and Interstate 805, providing easy access to other parts of San Diego. It is also in close proximity to popular attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.
Overall, Kensington is highly regarded for its charming atmosphere, unique architecture, and close-knit community, making it a desirable place to live or visit in San Diego.
3. Oceanside
Oceanside comes as one of our most affordable beachside communities in San Diego in 2024.
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Location and Geography: Oceanside is situated in San Diego County, about 35 miles north of downtown San Diego. It stretches along the Pacific coastline and offers approximately 3.5 miles of sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and surfers.
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Climate: Oceanside enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, temperate weather year-round. Summers are typically warm, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 24-29 degrees Celsius), while winters are mild and pleasant, averaging in the high 50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 14-18 degrees Celsius).
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Oceanside Pier: One of the most iconic landmarks in the city is the Oceanside Pier. Stretching 1,942 feet into the Pacific Ocean, it offers stunning views, fishing opportunities, and a chance to stroll along the shoreline.
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Attractions: Oceanside is home to various attractions that cater to both residents and visitors. The California Surf Museum showcases the rich surfing history of the area, while the Oceanside Museum of Art features contemporary works from local and international artists. Other notable attractions include the Mission San Luis Rey, Oceanside Harbor, and the beautiful Guajome Regional Park.
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Military Presence: Oceanside is host to Camp Pendleton, one of the largest Marine Corps bases in the United States. The military presence contributes to the city’s economy and adds to its cultural diversity.
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Festivals and Events: Oceanside hosts several annual events, including the Oceanside Pier Swim, the Oceanside Harbor Days, and the Oceanside Independence Day Parade. These events bring the community together and provide opportunities for residents and visitors to celebrate and enjoy the city.
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Transportation: Oceanside is well-connected, with a transit center that serves as a major transportation hub for both Amtrak and Metrolink train services. It provides convenient access to other cities in Southern California.
Oceanside offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle, a vibrant community, and a range of outdoor activities, making it an appealing place to live or visit in California.
4. Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is another affordable San Diego beachside community.
Imperial beach made my list because it’s value have seen some of the greatest increases in the San Diego market, approaching 60% in some sub markets according to 10k Info sparks a research and data firm promoted by the San Diego Association of Realtors.
Imperial Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in San Diego County, California, USA. It is the southernmost beach city in California and is known for its stunning beaches, oceanfront parks, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Imperial Beach offers a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, surfing, sunbathing, fishing, and bird watching. The city has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
To find more information about Imperial Beach, you can visit the official website of the Imperial Beach Chamber of Commerce, which provides details about local businesses, events, and attractions. You can check it out at: imperialbeachchamber.org
If you have any specific questions or need further information about Imperial Beach, feel free to ask!
5. Encinitas
Encinitas is a luxury beach side community with a small town feel coming at at number 5 on our list for our top areas in San Diego in 2024.
If you want a gorgeous beachside community without the pretentiousness of La Jolla then you’re looking for Encinitas. Don’t let this quaint town fool you, the real estate prices are soaring just like in La Jolla. The median home price in Encinitas in 2023 was $1,850,000.00. That’s almost 2 million dollars in case you got tired of counting zero’s. Still, despite the high real estate prices, Encinitas is home to tons of small family owned businesses and dive style spots that’ll make you feel right at home.
Encinitas is a beautiful coastal city located in Southern California, United States. It is situated within San Diego County and is known for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and rich surf culture. With a moderate Mediterranean climate, Encinitas enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year.
Encinitas is composed of several distinct communities, including the Encinitas downtown area, Olivenhain, Leucadia, Cardiff-by-the-Sea, and New Encinitas. Each community has its own unique charm and character.
The city is renowned for its picturesque beaches, such as Moonlight State Beach, Swamis Beach, and Cardiff State Beach. These beaches attract surfers, sunbathers, and beachgoers who enjoy the natural beauty and waves.
Encinitas is also home to a vibrant arts and music scene. You’ll find various art galleries, live music venues, and events throughout the year that celebrate local talent. The Encinitas Street Fair and the Surfing Madonna Beach Run are noteworthy events that showcase the community spirit.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Encinitas has a strong focus on sustainability and community engagement. It is often referred to as the “flower capital of the world” due to its long history of cultivating ornamental flowers, particularly poinsettias.
Overall, Encinitas offers a relaxed beach lifestyle with a range of outdoor activities, cultural events, and a close-knit community. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, explore local shops and restaurants, or simply enjoy the coastal scenery, Encinitas has something to offer.
Here are some useful links to learn more about Encinitas:
City of Encinitas: The official website of the City of Encinitas provides information on local government, services, events, and community resources.
Encinitas Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber of Commerce website offers a directory of local businesses, upcoming events, and information for visitors and residents.
Visit Encinitas: This website provides comprehensive information for tourists and visitors, including attractions, dining options, shopping, and beach activities.
Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club: The Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club is actively involved in community service projects and provides a platform for networking and making a positive impact.
San Diego’s Official Tourism Website: Learn more about Encinitas and other attractions in San Diego County on the official tourism website, which features detailed information, recommendations, and itineraries.
These resources should give you a good starting point to explore more about Encinitas and its offerings. Enjoy discovering all that this wonderful coastal city has to offer!