13 Best Neighborhoods in San Diego
- La Jolla
- Del Mar
- Gaslamp Quarter
- North Park
- Carlsbad
- Hillcrest
- Normal Heights
- Pacific Beach
- National City
- Ocean Beach
- Little Italy
- Coronado
- Point Loma Peninsula
La Jolla
La Jolla is the best neighborhood in San Diego thanks to its seven miles of picturesque coastline. This exciting neighborhood has become a prized locale over the years, evolving from an area once beach cottages. It’s now filled with mansions and homes with private beach access. Of course, this also makes it one of the most expensive neighborhoods in San Diego.
There is plenty to do in La Jolla, from shopping in cute boutiques to eating at renowned restaurants. You can visit the ocean any day of the week, no matter how busy your day might be. There is a lot to love about this resort-like neighborhood.
Del Mar
Del Mar is one of the best neighborhoods in San Diego for families as it has excellent public schools and plenty of outdoor activities for the kids. There aren’t too many job opportunities right in Del Mar, but it's just a short commute to the center of the city.
In Del Mar, you’ll find the San Diego County Fair and many indoor antique shops to explore. It’s an expensive area to live in, but the price is worth it if you can afford it.
Gaslamp Quarter
The Gaslamp Quarter is another one best San Diego's best neighborhoods thanks to its central location right in the heart of the city and fantastic nightlife. It's the perfect place for those who like to party in their free time. You’ll find dive bars, lounges, clubs, and more to explore. There are enough options to go to a different place every evening.
If you like to be around an excited crowd, the Gaslamp Quarter is your place. It's one of the best areas in San Diego for young professionals as it's where many of the city's young at heart come to party and enjoy themselves during their off time.
North Park
North Park is one of the cheaper San Diego neighborhoods on our list. It's a great place to live if you're looking for reasonable rents and lots of exciting things to do within walking distance of your home. It has a solid nightlife scene, and it’s located next to other neighborhoods with similar evening excitement, so you can switch it up whenever you want to.
You can experience farmer's markets, art festivals, and more in North Park. There are many coffee shops and restaurants to enjoy during the day and the night.
Carlsbad
Carlsbad is a hub for the world of golf. You can spend your days at the beach or get on the green and shoot a few shots. It’s also home to the exciting Legoland theme park, the perfect getaway spot for kids and adults alike.
If you have a family, Carlsbad has some of the best schools in the country. Although it’s a bit pricey, the cost is worth it for everything the area offers.
Hillcrest
Hillcrest is known for its LGBT+ scene. There’s so much to explore here. From gorgeous cafes to cozy bookstores, it’s easy to get lost on the streets of this San Diego neighborhood. It’s perhaps one of the most diverse areas, and there are tons of people on the hunt for a place to live here.
You’ll also find the well-known Hillcrest Brewing Company here, as well as delicious places to eat and hang out at night. It feels safe to stroll in Hillcrest.
Normal Heights
Normal Heights is an adorable and peaceful neighborhood. It has many hip locations to visit, including gastropubs, coffee shops, and much more. Adams Avenue is the street where everything is found.
If you like picnics, you can take a day and relax in Ward Canyon Neighborhood Park. You can get a cocktail at the Sycamore Den or get some Mariposa Ice Cream. Don’t overlook this quiet area.
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach is close to San Diego and is right by the coast for those who love the beach. It’s known as one of the liveliest places in San Diego. Although the cost of living is high in this area, it’s worth it for those who want a vibrant neighborhood.
You’ll find a low crime rate in Pacific Beach and a fun, close atmosphere. You can enjoy the nightlife of San Diego with no trouble if you find yourself renting or purchasing a home in the neighborhood of Pacific Beach. It has a party reputation.
National City
National City is one of the most diverse places in San Diego. It has a rich history that occupants can enjoy, and it’s only ten minutes out from the main part of the city. It’s on the rise and will continue to get more popular over the years.
There are delicious places to eat in National City, such as Napoleone’s Pizza House. It’s also by the naval base and near excellent schools if you happen to have a family. There are also tons of job opportunities for those on the hunt.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach has the feel of a laid-back beach town, but it also knows how to kick things up a notch on the weekend. It’s more affordable than a lot of the popular neighborhoods in San Diego, and it can give those who need space relaxing time when they need it.
If you love the ocean, you’ll love the fact that you can tan, surf, and swim whenever you want in Ocean Beach. There are lots of organic markets and antique stores to walk around in and do some shopping during the week.
Little Italy
Little Italy is a neighborhood filled with close families and delicious food. It has a beautiful waterfront view, a farmer’s market, and street festivals that appear throughout the year. It’s a peaceful area, but still has lots to do. It’s also ideal if Italian food is your favorite.
If you’re looking for something affordable, Little Italy is one of the cheapest neighborhoods to occupy in San Diego. You have easy access to any part of the city you need to get to thanks to the trolley.
Coronado
Coronado has a name straight out of a fairytale, and it’s clear why when you visit the area. It has three different sections - the Village, the Shore, and Coronado Cove. Each area offers a different style of living, from casual family homes to multi-million dollar mansions.
All areas of Coronado have access to glamorous shopping and places to eat. As with most beach towns, there is also plenty of coffee. You can get to the heart of San Diego within twenty minutes via the Coronado Bridge.
Point Loma Peninsula
Point Loma is a gorgeous San Diego neighborhood that combines the wonder of the natural portion of California with homes and businesses. It’s a luxurious seaside area, filled with laid-back citizens and plenty of excellent views, both in the morning and at night.
You can be in the heart of San Diego in a little over twenty minutes if you need to lean Point Loma Peninsula. There are plenty of hiking trails for those who like to head outside and get involved with the great outdoors.