Here’s the Scoop with San Diego’s Beaches and Weather 🌞
Let’s get real. Living in San Diego is basically heaven on Earth if you’re into sun, surf, and sand. Our coastline is nothing short of amazing. But you might be surprised to learn that we locals aren’t at the beach every single day. Honestly, I rarely go to them unless I have a visitor in town. Even paradise has its off-days—like when winter cools things down a tad. But worry not; we’re talking SoCal “winter” here, which means no snow and no real reason to complain. It’s just a little brisk that time of year.
Paradise Has a Price Tag
Look, living in San Diego isn’t exactly what we call cheap. If you’re thinking about making a move here, you have to know that the average home here is flirting with the $1,000,000 mark. And it’s not just real estate; grabbing a bite to eat or filling up your tank with gas also comes at a premium. I just passed a gas station and saw it was $6.25 per gallon. On the bright side, you have options, from budget-friendly townhomes in areas like Mission Valley or Fashion Valley to high-end homes in places like Rancho Santa Fe or in La Jolla.
Mixing the Old with the New
When it comes to housing, San Diego’s got a little bit of everything. You’ll find charming, historic homes in some of my favorite neighborhoods like South Park, North Park, Mission Hills, and a few surrounding areas. Then there are the mid-century houses that were the thing back in the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. But hey, if you’re more into the here and now, check out newer communities like Carlsbad, where the living is easy and contemporary.
Laid-Back Vibes All Around
San Diegans tend to be a chill bunch. This isn’t LA or San Francisco; here, most people tend to be friendly, approachable, and inclusive. We pride ourselves on our relaxed culture, making this city the kinda place where you can strike up a conversation with just about anyone.
A Foodie and Boozy Paradise
Get ready to eat and drink like a king—or queen! We’ve got around 150 breweries, a ton of wineries, and an endless array of mouth-watering restaurants. Craving authentic Mexican? You’re in the taco capital of the U.S., my friend.
Endless Adventures in the Great Outdoors
The weather’s so amazing it’d be a crime not to enjoy it. Whether you’re hiking, biking, surfing, or just walking your dog, San Diego is your year-round playground. Need a snow fix? Big Bear’s not too far off for some winter action. You can go skiing and swim at the beach all in one day.
Addressing the Elephant in the Room: Homelessness
Let’s not sugarcoat it; homelessness is a real issue here, especially in the downtown areas like East Village. But there are efforts to make things better, so keep an eye on how this evolves, especially if you’re planning to move downtown.
Navigating the Tax Maze
California isn’t tax-friendly whatsoever, but there are some perks for property owners. Thanks to propositions like Prop 13 and Prop 19, as a homeowner, you can catch a bit of a break when it comes to your property taxes. Prop 13 basically puts a cap on how much your property taxes can increase each year. The rate is set at 1% of the purchase price when you buy a home, and annual increases are limited to just 2%. With Prop 19 gives homeowners who are 55 or older, or victims of wildfire or natural disasters, the ability to transfer their current property tax base to a new home.
Where Politics Stand
Think California is all left-wing? San Diego dances to its own political beat, with a more moderate vibe that sets it apart from the rest of the state. This can indirectly affect property values, local laws, and zoning issues. For example, a more conservative area might have different views on property taxes or development projects compared to a more liberal area. Understanding the political nuances of a place gives you another layer of understanding about the community you would like to live in.
The Neighborhoods: Choose Your Own Adventure
From coastal bliss to suburban tranquility to the urban jungle, San Diego has a spot that’ll fit your style. Each neighborhood has its own unique flavor, so you’ve got options, plenty of ’em!
We’re Kinda Famous, Just Sayin’
By living in San Diego, be prepared for a revolving door of guests. Everyone wants a slice of San Diego, so expect your place to become the next hottest vacation spot for friends and family!
So there you have it, the full scoop on what it’s like to live in this incredible city. If you’re planning to move here, you’re in for a treat—but it’s always good to know what you’re diving into.
Things to Do In San Diego