10 Best Neighborhoods to Live in San Diego, CA 2024

San Diego, often hailed as "America's Finest City," boasts a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you're drawn to the laid-back beach vibes of the coast, the buzzing urban energy of downtown, or the family-friendly suburbs, there's a neighborhood in San Diego to suit every lifestyle.

In this guide, we'll explore the 10 best neighborhoods to live in San Diego in 2024, offering insights into their amenities, housing options, and community atmosphere. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree seeking the perfect place to call home, our curated list will help you discover the ideal neighborhood and help prepare you for your move to sunny San Diego.

10 Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

How We Chose the Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

For us, choosing the best San Diego neighborhoods came down to a number of factors:

• Rental Prices: We looked for a mix of upscale and affordable neighborhoods that were desirable to renters.
• Popularity: These neighborhoods are all highly-rated and sought-after places to live in San Diego.
• Lifestyle: Whether you crave the beach life, a charming island community, historic vibes, or a young and vibrant scene, this list has something for most preferences.
• Amenities: The neighborhoods encompass a range of offerings, including beautiful beaches, parks, shopping, dining, nightlife, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other nice neighborhoods in San Diego.

1. North Park

• Great for: Artists, young professionals, and families seeking a hopping urban atmosphere, diverse dining options, and relatively affordable housing
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,175
• Walk score: 86
• Transit Score: 49
• Bike Score: 64
• Map of North Park

North Park, a dynamic neighborhood nestled northeast of Balboa Park, offers a thriving arts scene, a variety of dining options, historic charm, and is one of the best affordable neighborhoods in San Diego.

As the hippest neighborhood in the city, North Park is a must-visit for any explorer. This trendy neighborhood boasts a vast selection of restaurants and breweries, perfect for a walkable lifestyle. Street parking can be challenging, but the neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly.

North Park is a haven for artists, with galleries and cultural experiences around every corner. The monthly Ray At Night Art Walk is a favorite local event. If nature is more your scene, you can immerse yourself in nature with hikes in Juniper Canyon or have a family picnic at Bird Park.

El Cajon Boulevard is the heart of the action, so consider your desired level of immersion when choosing your location. The central location and lively atmosphere create an urban lifestyle with a laid-back California vibe, making North Park a top choice for San Diego living.

2. Little Italy

• Great for: Urban dwellers, young professionals, and foodies seeking a lively neighborhood with a European-inspired atmosphere, varied culinary scene, and waterfront views
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,780
• Walk score: 98
• Transit Score: 76
• Bike Score: 71
• Map of Little Italy

Little Italy oozes European charm with its bustling piazzas and delectable cuisine. Once a haven for Italian fishermen, this historic neighborhood has transformed into a culinary and cultural hotspot. Attractive streets lined with trattorias, gelaterias, and espresso bars entice residents and visitors alike.

Foodies flock to Little Italy not just for traditional Italian fare, but also for innovative modern restaurants like Juniper & Ivy, Born and Raised, and Ironside Fish & Oyster. The biweekly Little Italy’s Mercato farmers market adds to the endless food options.

While Little Italy itself may be a bit quieter after dark, residents enjoy easy access to the lively Gaslamp Quarter, scenic Embarcadero, and exciting festivals like Art Walk and Festo do Espirito Santo. This downtown location comes at a premium, but for those who crave a life immersed in food and fun, it's a worthwhile trade-off. Street parking can be challenging, so consider an apartment with a garage for added convenience.

3. Encinitas

• Great for: Beach lovers, families, retirees, and those seeking surf culture and a laid-back coastal lifestyle
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,950
• Walk score: 43
• Transit Score: 35
• Bike Score: None
• Map of Encinitas

Located along the picturesque coastline of North County San Diego, Encinitas is a coastal paradise known for its laid-back surf culture, stunning beaches, and thriving arts community.

This idyllic seaside town comprises several distinct neighborhoods each offering its own unique character: historic Old Encinitas with its eclectic shops, artsy Cardiff-by-the-Sea with its classic pier and famous beaches, and bohemian Leucadia, a haven for surfers and nature lovers.

Residents of Encinitas enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to world-class surfing spots like Swami's Reef and Moonlight Beach. Scenic hiking trails meander along the coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views. Eclectic shops and eateries line historic Highway 101, providing options for everything from locally-sourced meals to handcrafted souvenirs.

With its year-round sunshine and local community fostered by events like the Encinitas Holiday Street Fair, Encinitas is one of the best neighborhoods in San Diego to live for those seeking coastal living at its finest.

4. Gaslamp Quarter

• Great for: Young professionals and nightlife enthusiasts seeking excitement, convenience, and a vibrant social scene.
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $3,000
• Walk score: 96
• Transit Score: 78
• Bike Score: 83
• Map of Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter is one of the best neighborhoods to visit in San Diego. This historic district, renowned for its meticulously restored Victorian-era architecture, has bustling streets lined with rooftop bars, trendy nightclubs, and award-winning restaurants creating an electric nightlife scene that attracts crowds from all corners of the city.

This walkable neighborhood offers an urban lifestyle unlike any other. Residents enjoy unparalleled access to cultural attractions like the San Diego Convention Center, the Padres games at Petco Park, and the flourishing arts scene of nearby East Village. Yet, with convenience comes compromise. Street parking is a notorious headache, and the constant buzz of nightlife isn't for everyone.

If you’re seeking an electrifying atmosphere and the heart of the city at your doorstep, the Gaslamp Quarter might be your perfect match. However, those who crave tranquility might be better suited to a quieter corner of San Diego. Ultimately, the Gaslamp Quarter offers an unforgettable experience, whether as a weekend escape or a home base for the city's most energetic residents.

5. Pacific Beach

• Great for: Beach lovers, surf enthusiasts, and young professionals seeking a laid-back coastal lifestyle with plenty of recreational activities and an exciting nightlife
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,745
• Walk score: 74
• Transit Score: 41
• Bike Score: 63
• Map of Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach, or "PB" to the locals, is a beloved breach community known for its laid-back vibes, endless outdoor activities, and nightlife. PB attracts a diverse crowd: surfers, sunbathers, young professionals, and families all find their niche here.

While college kids flock to Garnet Avenue for the party atmosphere with its bars and beach-inspired food, quieter options exist. North Pacific Beach offers scenic mountain views and is ideal for those seeking a reprieve from the youthful energy. Kate Sessions Park provides a green space with gorgeous vistas for a relaxing weekend escape.

Beyond the beach bums and partiers, PB boasts a thriving local scene. Residents enjoy a range of activities – surfing, paddleboarding, or simply cruising the Mission Bay Bike Path.

With its relaxed beach lifestyle and stunning coastal beauty, PB offers the quintessential Southern California experience, making it one of the best beach neighborhoods in San Diego.

6. Coronado

• Great for: Affluent families, retirees, and professionals seeking a luxurious coastal lifestyle, top-rated schools, and stunning waterfront properties
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $3,645
• Walk score: 54
• Transit Score: 32
• Bike Score: 73
• Map of Coronado

Coronado, a short ferry ride or drive across the bay from downtown San Diego, feels worlds apart. This idyllic island community, nicknamed “The Crown City,” embodies coastal elegance with its pristine beaches, small-town vibe, and iconic landmarks like the opulent Hotel del Coronado.

Residents in Coronado enjoy a life of barefoot strolls along Coronado Beach and exploring quaint shops and delectable restaurants lining Orange Avenue. Shoppers can easily take a break on a park bench, soaking in the stunning panorama of the San Diego skyline framed by the majestic Coronado Bridge.

Coronado's rich heritage is evident in its beautifully preserved Victorian homes and historic sites. World-class amenities abound, from championship golf courses to luxurious resorts, all nestled amidst this charming island escape.

Coronado offers an unparalleled waterfront living experience, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a balance of luxury and tranquility – a true gem of San Diego.

7. Point Loma

• Great for: Outdoor enthusiasts, families, and professionals seeking a close-knit community with easy access to outdoor activities such as sailing, hiking, and beachcombing
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,700
• Walk score: 65
• Transit Score: 34
• Bike Score: 58
• Map of Point Loma

Perched atop a scenic peninsula, Point Loma offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. This picturesque neighborhood, a favorite among San Diego residents, caters to those seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

History buffs will appreciate the Cabrillo National Monument, while everyone can enjoy appealing waterfront villages like Shelter Island and Point Loma Village.

Beyond the jaw-dropping Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma boasts a rich maritime history. Weekends can be spent exploring Liberty Station, a former Naval Training Center transformed into a food and shopping hub. Families often enjoy boating near the bay, while nature enthusiasts can hike along coastal trails or explore tide pools.

Accommodations range from ocean-view apartments near Mission Bay to older condos and smaller complexes further inland. This variety ensures residents can find a home that suits their style and budget.

With stunning natural beauty, a close-knit community, and easy access to downtown and the airport, Point Loma is an ideal spot to call home.

8. Carmel Valley

• Great for: Families and professionals seeking a suburban retreat with top-rated schools, upscale amenities, and convenient access to shopping and dining
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $3,650
• Walk score: 37
• Transit Score: 1
• Bike Score: 37
• Map of Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley’s rolling hills and pristine canyons offer a tranquil suburban escape with modern conveniences at your doorstep. This neighborhood caters to families and professionals seeking a perfect balance between suburban and urban. Top-rated schools and a strong sense of community make it one of the best family neighborhoods in San Diego.

Beyond its peaceful atmosphere, Carmel Valley boasts a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Families can hike the scenic trails of Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve together or tee off at the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course. Upscale shopping and dining experiences await at the nearby Del Mar Highlands Town Center, offering a variety of options to suit any taste.

Carmel Valley's allure extends beyond its natural beauty. The neighborhood exudes an affluent yet welcoming atmosphere, creating a strong sense of belonging for its residents.

9. Hillcrest

• Great for: LGBTQ+ individuals, young professionals, and those who appreciate a diverse and lively atmosphere with trendy shops, restaurants, and cultural events
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $2,950
• Walk score: 87
• Transit Score: 53
• Bike Score: 60
• Map of Hillcrest

Just north of Balboa Park, Hillcrest is a diverse and welcoming neighborhood that boasts a vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

Tree-lined streets adorned with colorful murals lead to trendy shops, cafes, and a bustling Farmers Market. There are also plenty of art galleries, theaters, pubs, and more, all within walking distance.

Hillcrest's long history of diversity and its commitment to inclusivity is evident from the start. A towering rainbow Pride flag marks the entrance to the neighborhood.This landmark serves as the starting point for San Diego LGBTQ+ Pride's annual parade. Just a block away, down Harvey Milk Street, is where the San Diego LGBTQ+ Community Center resides.

While lacking high-rises, Hillcrest offers nice apartments and a central location near Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and trendy areas like North Park and Little Italy.

Hillcrest’s blend of community and nightlife makes it one of the best neighborhoods in San Diego for young professionals seeking an inclusive experience.

10. La Jolla / University City

• Great for: Retirees, students, and families looking for upscale amenities, stunning ocean views, and proximity to top-rated schools and institutions
• 2-Bedroom Starting Rent: $3,495
• Walk score: 29
• Transit Score: 28
• Bike Score: 22
• Map of La Jolla

The San Diego areas of La Jolla and University City offer something for everyone.

La Jolla, perched atop rugged cliffs, is a prestigious coastal community renowned for its upscale offerings. Here you can explore the posh Shops at La Jolla Village, teeming with high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to La Jolla Shores for kayaking and encounters with playful sea lions, followed by delicious bites at beachfront eateries and pubs.

Neighboring University City, which is one of the best neighborhoods in San Diego for young adults, caters to a different crowd – UC San Diego students. Here, the vibe is more modest, with the massive Westfield UTC offering a mix of big-box retailers and trendy boutiques. Luxury apartments and condos with various amenities are also plentiful.

Despite the differences, both La Jolla and University City share stunning natural beauty. Nearby La Jolla Shores boasts a delightful stretch of beach, while Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve provides scenic trails for exploration.

This proximity to nature, coupled with the prestigious University of California, San Diego, solidifies La Jolla and University City as a top choice for those seeking an unparalleled blend of coastal luxury, student life, and easy access to the outdoors.

Comparing Starting Rent Prices in the Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

Find Your Next Apartment in San Diego

Whether you're drawn to the vibrant urban energy of downtown, the laid-back beach lifestyle of Pacific Beach, or the upscale amenities of La Jolla, San Diego has a neighborhood to suit every taste and budget.

Whatever neighborhoods of San Diego you choose to call home, finding the perfect apartment is easier than ever with Apartment List. Learn about the average rent prices in San Diego, and take our quiz to start your San Diego apartment search.