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Hillcrest

Hillcrest

$970,870 Average Value
$767 Average Price per Sq Ft
42 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 all throughout Hillcrest.
Colorful cafes are a common sight all throughout 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.

Mo's is a fabled bar which serves up drinks and food from brunch until 2:00 AM.
Mo's is a fabled bar which serves up drinks and food from brunch until 2:00 AM.
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.

Craftsman homes represent some of the higher end residential options available in Hillcrest.
Craftsman homes represent some of the higher end residential options available 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 is located near the magnificent Balboa Park, and is loved by local walkers.
Hillcrest is located near the magnificent Balboa Park, and is loved by local walkers.
Pet owners revel in Hillcrest's proximity to Balboa Park.
Pet owners revel in 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.

The MTS bus service can take residents to Downtown San Diego in minutes.
The MTS bus service can take residents to Downtown San Diego in minutes.
The commercial district in Hillcrest is very centralized, allowing locals to walk between shops.
The commercial district in Hillcrest is very centralized, allowing locals to walk between shops.
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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 is a STEAM magnet school in Hillcrest.
Theodore Roosevelt Middle School is a STEAM magnet school in Hillcrest.
San Diego High School provides education in the neighborhood of 
Hillcrest.
San Diego High School provides education in the neighborhood of Hillcrest.
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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
Michael Hirsch
Photography Contributed By
Michael Hirsch
Jacob McAllister
Video By
Jacob McAllister

Agents Specializing in this Area

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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

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
$785,000
Median Sale Price
$782,500
Median Single Family Sale Price
$1,375,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$1,260,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$755,000
Median Studio Sale Price
$542,500
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Last 12 months Home Sales
166
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-2%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$767

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
3,352
Number of Homes for Sale
42
Median Year Built
1984
Months of Supply
3.00
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,595
Below the national average
1,925
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,817
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,148
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
743
Average Studio Size Sq Ft
481
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
5,227

Open Houses

  • Friday, Sep 19
    5 - 7pm

    3635 7th Ave Unit 15G, San Diego, CA 92103

    $2,550,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,376 Sq Ft
    • 3635 7th Ave
    • Unit 15G
    • New 8 days ago

    Penthouse 15G at Coral Tree Plaza — 2,376 sq ft, fully reimagined with luxury finishes and panoramic views. Highlights include: sweeping south-facing vistas of Balboa Park, Downtown, San Diego Bay, Point Loma, and Mount Soledad; chef’s kitchen with Wolf & SubZero appliances, custom cabinetry, and an oversized walk-in pantry; spa-inspired primary suite with large walk-in closet, patio access, and

    Paul Redford eXp Realty of California, Inc

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  • Saturday, Sep 20
    2:30 - 4:30pm

    140 Walnut Ave Unit 2A, San Diego, CA 92103

    $785,000

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,147 Sq Ft
    • 140 Walnut Ave
    • Unit 2A
    • New 16 days ago

    Beautifully upgraded Hillcrest/Bankers Hill condo—style meets convenience! Over $55,000 in upgrades bring comfort and character to this inviting home. Custom built-ins add style, storage, and cozy seating, while wainscoting, solid wood Craftsman-style doors, and custom door frames elevate the design throughout. The home features quartz counters, recessed lighting with dimmers, and smart switches

    Ilana Herring LPT Realty,Inc

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  • Saturday, Sep 20
    10am - 12pm

    4077 3rd Ave Unit 102, San Diego, CA 92103

    $439,000

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 591 Sq Ft
    • 4077 3rd Ave
    • Unit 102
    • New 22 days ago

    Discover this delightful 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom condo that seamlessly combines privacy with urban convenience in the vibrant heart of Hillcrest. This welcoming residence boasts an open floor plan with sleek porcelain floors, offering a modern and easy-care aesthetic throughout the living areas. Enjoy the comfort of a new AC/heating system and your very own private balcony. Nestled in the gated,

    Huda Diab Compass

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Condo Buildings

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
Jessica Speciale
Define Real Estate
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