Sign In Register
Ethan Jones housing

First time buyer in San Diego - where to look?

Genuine question:

We relocated for my husband's job in retail. Public transit is nonexistent honestly - you'll want a car.

Crime rate at 361.7/100K residents is something to {crime_feel}. A friend just bought in University Heights for K and I'm not sure if that was smart.

What I like:
- Good parks and trails
- Strong local businesses
- Strong arts and culture scene

What I don't:
- Sprawl is real
- Limited diversity in some areas
- Water quality concerns
- Wind never stops

The airport connections are underrated which matters if you travel. Honestly the biggest downside is the dating scene.
46 upvotes

1 Replies

Eliana
Let me give you the perspective nobody asked for but everyone needs.

I've lived in University Heights, Carlsbad, and currently in Mira Mesa. Each one feels like a different city honestly.

Rent comparison:
- University Heights: /mo for a 3-bed
- Carlsbad: about /mo
- Mira Mesa: /mo but pretty good

The suburbs vs city debate here is real.. The key is finding your neighborhood. Once you do, San Diego really clicks.
37 upvotes
← Back to San Diego Community