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Hillcrest

Hillcrest

$966,343 Average Value
$250 Average Price per Sq Ft
5 Homes For Sale

A walkable and welcoming community

San Diego's Hillcrest neighborhood is heralded as the city's hub for the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to being the location of the start of the annual San Diego Pride parade, the area is also known for its locally owned shops, boutiques and trendy dining establishments. "Hillcrest is a very diverse neighborhood close to downtown. The area has a great walk score, and there is always something going on; it's a very active community," says Realtor Kathy Grust with The Stoz Group, boasting over 25 years of real estate experience.

The iconic Hillcrest neighborhood sign welcomes residents and visitors on University Avenue.
The iconic Hillcrest neighborhood sign welcomes residents and visitors on University Avenue.
Colorful cafes are a common sight in Hillcrest.
Colorful cafes are a common sight in Hillcrest.
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An eclectic retail and dining scene

Shoppers are able to restock groceries and home supplies at Trader Joe's, Lazy Acres, and Whole Foods. Those looking for vintage clothing can find thrifted treasures at Out of the Closet, Buffalo Exchange or Flashbacks. Hillcrest Farmer's Market has over 175 vendors selling everything from art and produce to handmade goods and hot food options.

As one of the most walkable neighborhoods, some residents are only a few blocks away from getting cold brew from Better Buzz Coffee or boba tea from Little Nap Café. There are plenty of options along Fifth Avenue, whether it's comforting gumbo at NOLA on 5th, savory ramen from HiroNori or brunch at Snooze. One of the most well-known restaurants, Urban MO's Bar and Grill, has a lengthy food menu and dance floor inside a lively atmosphere.

Outdoor dining is a way of life in Hillcrest with dozens of options available to diners.
Outdoor dining is a way of life in Hillcrest with dozens of options available to diners.
Mo's is a fabled bar which serves up drinks and food from brunch until 2:00AM.
Mo's is a fabled bar which serves up drinks and food from brunch until 2:00AM.
Many businesses in Hillcrest adorn their facades with symbols of pride.
Many businesses in Hillcrest adorn their facades with symbols of pride.
Buffalo exchange is one of many thrift stores Hillcrest is known for.
Buffalo exchange is one of many thrift stores Hillcrest is known for.
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Hillcrest has an active calendar

"In addition to the Pride parade and block party every July, Hillcrest has many events throughout the year. Balboa Park has the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon and the More Than Pink Walk for breast cancer awareness," Grust says.

Local musicians have ample opportunity to showcase their talents in Hillcrest.
Local musicians have ample opportunity to showcase their talents in Hillcrest.
The Hillcrest Farmers Market assembles every Sunday morning.
The Hillcrest Farmers Market assembles every Sunday morning.
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Homes from the 1910s to modern day

Though much of Hillcrest is an urban landscape with commercial buildings, there are pockets of residential spaces with various living options. Palm trees and other lush plant life jut out from the sidewalk-lined streets, adding to the curb appeal. Many properties were built in the early 20th century, with some homes dating back to the 1910s and the 1920s. The architectural styles are predominantly Craftsman-inspired and midcentury modern dwellings. There are also several newly built or recently remodeled homes and complexes. Detached houses tend to be priced lower than those in neighboring communities, ranging from $1 million to $1.8 million. Though many stand-alone properties are available to buy, there are also several rental properties throughout the neighborhood, including condominiums and apartment units. Attached homes often enter the market from $500,000 for a one-bedroom unit to $1.3 million for a three-bedroom luxury townhouse built within the last 10 years.

These craftsman homes represent the higher end residential options available in Hillcrest.
These craftsman homes represent the higher end residential options available in Hillcrest.
Brand new construction is rare and usually of a custom design in Hillcrest.
Brand new construction is rare and usually of a custom design in Hillcrest.
Condominiums make up a small percentage of housing stock in Hillcrest.
Condominiums make up a small percentage of housing stock in Hillcrest.
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Getting some fresh air in Hillcrest

Hillcrest is near many of the city's best outdoor amenities. Close by is Pioneer Park as well as the expansive Balboa Park, which features the San Diego Zoo, several museums and a sports complex.

Hillcrest abuts the magnificent Balboa Park-- a walker's paradise.
Hillcrest abuts the magnificent Balboa Park-- a walker's paradise.
Pet owners revel Hillcrest's proximity to Balboa Park.
Pet owners revel Hillcrest's proximity to Balboa Park.
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Traveling around the rest of the city

Residents can integrate a 20-minute bike ride or a walk to work. Commuters easily access San Diego's public transit by taking a short drive or bus ride to the Mission Valley Center Trolley Station and the Santa Fe Depot. Bus stops are found between First Avenue and University Avenue. Major thoroughfares, Interstate 5 and Interstate 8, are also close by.

MTS bus service takes residents to downtown San Diego in minutes.
MTS bus service takes residents to downtown San Diego in minutes.
From above one can see the centralized commercial district of Hillcrest.
From above one can see the centralized commercial district of Hillcrest.
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Students participate in magnet programs

Parents will likely enroll their children at Florence Elementary School, earning an A-minus from Niche. Students have academic support before and after school in addition to a Gifted and Talented Education program offering a modified curriculum to high-achieving students. Many move on to the magnet programs at Roosevelt International Middle, which receives a B-plus grade from Niche. San Diego High has an A from Niche and the No. 6 spot for "Best Magnet High Schools in San Diego Area." Parents may also choose nearby charter or private school options.

Florance Elementary School serves students in Hillcrest.
Florance Elementary School serves students in Hillcrest.
Theodore Roosevelt Middle School in San Diego.
Theodore Roosevelt Middle School in San Diego.
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A top medical center in the neighborhood

Residents are also just minutes away from medical care, if necessary, with the University of California Medical Center and Scripps Mercy Hospital nearby. Scripps Mercy Hospital has been in the community since 1890, offering a variety of specialty and trauma services as well as orthopedics specialty care that ranks as one of the best in the country, according to "U.S. News & World Report."

The Mercy Medical Building offers Hillcrest residents medical care and employment.
The Mercy Medical Building offers Hillcrest residents medical care and employment.
Hillcrest Medical Center is a popular employer for recent medical school grads.
Hillcrest Medical Center is a popular employer for recent medical school grads.
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Ashley Kennedy
Written By
Ashley Kennedy
Jacob McAllister
Video By
Jacob McAllister

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Tim Diamond, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

San Diego International

6 min drive

Bus

4th Av & Brookes Av

Bus

Goldfinch St & Pennsylvania Av

Bus

Washington St & Falcon St

Bus

Washington St & 3rd Av

Bus

University Av & 7th Av

Bus

4th Av & University Av

Bus

Reynard Wy & Otsego Dr

Hillcrest Demographics and Home Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$675,000
Median Sale Price
$675,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$635,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$675,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Last 12 months Home Sales
49
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
114%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$250

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
3,348
Number of Homes for Sale
5
Median Year Built
1984
Months of Supply
1.20
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,596
Below the national average
1,924
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,817
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,149
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
743
Average Studio Size Sq Ft
483
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
5,227

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Aug 2
    12 - 3pm

    521 Arbor Dr Unit 105, San Diego, CA 92103

    $775,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,128 Sq Ft
    • 521 Arbor Dr
    • Unit 105
    • New 7 days ago

    Welcome to your private URBAN RETREAT in the heart of Hillcrest! This beautifully maintained 2BD/2.5BA condo is tucked away on a quiet street, yet just steps from all the vibrant energy this beloved neighborhood has to offer. High ceilings and abundant natural light create a bright, airy ambiance throughout. The open-concept living and dining area flows seamlessly to an OVERSIZED PRIVATE

    Joe OMeara eXp Realty of California, Inc.

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  • Saturday, Aug 2
    12 - 3pm

    3773 1st Ave Unit 6, San Diego, CA 92103

    $695,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 872 Sq Ft
    • 3773 1st Ave
    • Unit 6
    • New 14 days ago

    Get ready to discover a stunning condo in vibrant Hillcrest that truly checks all the boxes—an exceptional opportunity you won’t want to miss!! This beautifully maintained end-unit home offers 2 bedrooms, 2 updated bathrooms, 2 parking spaces, and also in-unit washer & dryer for everyday convenience. The open, light-filled layout features high ceilings, crown molding, durable laminate flooring,

    Lily Geffroy Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties

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  • Friday, Aug 8
    3 - 6pm

    3812 Park Blvd Unit 209, San Diego, CA 92103

    $899,999

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,431 Sq Ft
    • 3812 Park Blvd
    • Unit 209
    • New 15 days ago

    The Egyptian’s most sought-after floor plan. Set in the heart of Hillcrest, this elevated north-facing corner unit in the Historic Egyptian building features a spacious split-bedroom layout, ideal for privacy and flexible living. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the open-concept living, dining, and kitchen areas with natural light and frame peaceful treetop views. A large private patio extends your

    Nick Redford eXp Realty of California, Inc

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Condo Buildings

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Tim Diamond, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
15,351
Median Age
42
Population Density
19 ppl/acre
Population under 18
11.7%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
17.7%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$89,932
Above the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$115,571

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
97.4%
College Graduates
64.5%
Significantly above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
31%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
75.3%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
9''
Average Winter Low Temperature
50°F
Average Summer High Temperature
76°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Very Bikeable

Bike Score®

72 / 100

Walker's Paradise

Walk Score®

95 / 100

Good Transit

Transit Score®

54 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Hillcrest