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Lake Murray

Lake Murray

$983,516 Average Value
$575 Average Price per Sq Ft
18 Homes For Sale

San Diego suburb between the mountains and the lake

Named after the body of water on its southwest side, Lake Murray is a suburban neighborhood of the San Carlos area, about 15 miles east of downtown San Diego. The neighborhood’s collection of residential communities gives all the expected benefits of suburban life, such as grassy lawns and top-rated walkable schools. However, what differentiates Lake Murray is its proximity to both outdoor recreation and commercial activity. “It’s centrally located in the area, so you’re close to multiple freeways, close to downtown and close to hiking,” says Realtor Rayna Mack, leader of the Rayna Mack Team with SD Homes, who’s been selling in the area since the 2000s. In addition to paddling and park space around Lake Murray to the south, the neighborhood’s northern streets sit at the base of Cowles Mountain, the highest point in San Diego. This gives hikers access to thousands of acres of open space around the mountain and through Mission Trails Regional Park to the north. Plus, there’s rarely a bad day for hiking or kayaking in San Diego’s climate. “It’s December, and it’s beach weather right now,” says Mack. “I have the windows open. The birds are chirping. You can’t beat the weather here.”

Hiking on Cowles Mountain and paddling on Lake Murray

Between Lake Murray to the south and Cowles Mountain to the north, outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy nature. The neighborhood’s namesake, Lake Murray, is walkable from nearby homes. “I think the coolest attraction at Lake Murray is the paved walkway that goes all the way around,” says Mack. “People use it to walk their dogs, go for bike rides, all that stuff.” Along with the path, park spaces surround the lake. Kayakers and paddleboarders can launch from the Lake Murray Recreation Area boat ramp, where paddle boats are also available for rent. Anglers can cast a line from the recreation area’s fishing pier. A few holes of Mission Trails Golf Course also line the lake’s northwest side. The neighborhood’s northern streets sit at the base of Cowles Mountain. Hikers can trek up to the peak for views of the city or travel farther north into Mission Trail Regional Park. The regional park has 60 miles of trails covering over 8,000 acres of grassy rolling hills. The neighborhood also offers suburban recreation spaces like San Carlos Park, which has athletic fields and a community garden where neighbors can cultivate their own fresh produce.

Enjoy peaceful walks by Lake Murray, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
Enjoy peaceful walks by Lake Murray, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.
Experience scenic fairways and well-maintained greens at the Mission Trails Golf Course.
Experience scenic fairways and well-maintained greens at the Mission Trails Golf Course.
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Winding streets of ranch-style homes

The neighborhood is comprised of winding suburban streets to the north and south of Navajo Road. Along the drives and cul-de-sacs, homes sit on midsize grassy lawns, often accompanied by a backyard pool or patio. Sidewalks make it easy to walk to schools, community parks, the nearby lake and hiking trails. Ranch-style homes make up a majority of the options in the neighborhood. The consistent architecture across the neighborhood means prices are evenly spread, with no particularly expensive or inexpensive area. Older 1970s ranch-styles can range from $800,000 to $1 million. Midcentury modern designs and updated ranch-style homes with contemporary exteriors can cost $1 million to $1.2 million. Larger, two-story midcentury moderns and Spanish-inspired homes can range from $1.2 million to $1.5 million.

Lake Murray boasts stunning mid-century modern homes with sleek, timeless designs.
Lake Murray boasts stunning mid-century modern homes with sleek, timeless designs.
Newer two-story homes in Lake Murray feature price tags of $1.2–$1.5 million.
Newer two-story homes in Lake Murray feature price tags of $1.2–$1.5 million.
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A-rated schools and Grossmont College

Lake Murray is home to top-rated public schools and institutions of higher education. The neighborhood’s grade school students are served by the San Diego Unified School District, which receives an overall A rating from Niche. They begin at Gage Elementary, given an A-minus. Gage is in the heart of the residential streets north of Navajo Road, making it walkable from many homes. Perishing Middle also gets an A-minus and is walkable from many homes south of Navajo Road. Students finish at Patrick Henry High, which earns an A. Patrick Henry’s Engineering and Computer Science Academy allows students to pursue their mathematical and technological passions. The academy offers a selection of AP courses, and participating students can join clubs like the Society of Women Engineers. Local high school students might take dual enrollment classes at Grossmont College on the neighborhood’s north end. This community college has over 15,000 students. Residents can enjoy the campus’ Hyde Art Gallery and shows at the Stagehouse Theatre.

Gage Elementary School in Lake Murray is dedicated to student success.
Gage Elementary School in Lake Murray is dedicated to student success.
Students at Patrick Henry High School near Lake Murray excel in academics and athletics.
Students at Patrick Henry High School near Lake Murray excel in academics and athletics.
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Nearby groceries and retail at the Grossmont Center

Residents can find basic groceries within a mile of home at ALDI or Albertsons on Navajo Road. Albertsons shares the Navajo Shopping Center with hangouts like Navajo Live, a local dive that features open mic nights and live bands regularly. The strip mall across Navajo Road has globally inspired restaurants like Basil Thai Bistro, Trinitea Tea and Tak Mediterranean Grill. Retail at the Grossmont Center is a couple of miles south of the neighborhood. This plaza has large department stores like Walmart and Target, interior design spaces such as World Market and a selection of recognizable fast-casual eateries. There’s also a Trader Joe’s across the road.

Aldi near Lake Murray offers affordable groceries for your everyday needs.
Aldi near Lake Murray offers affordable groceries for your everyday needs.
Enjoy a convenient shopping experience at Albertsons in Lake Murray.
Enjoy a convenient shopping experience at Albertsons in Lake Murray.
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Fifteen-mile drive to downtown San Diego

Buses stop along the neighborhood’s main thoroughfares — Navajo Road and Lake Murray Boulevard — but not within communities, so cars are the primary method of transportation. State Route 125 runs down the neighborhood’s east side. Commuters can take the 125 down to Interstate 8 and drive 15 miles west to downtown San Diego. San Diego International Airport is also downtown. Residents might work at business parks in Santee and El Cajon, about 5 miles east. Folks in higher education have plenty of nearby opportunities, with Grossmont College on the neighborhood’s north side and San Diego State University less than 5 miles west. Sharp Grossmont Hospital is the nearest large healthcare facility, about 2 miles south of most homes. Even with this nearby commercial activity, the neighborhood’s quiet, suburban atmosphere helps it maintain a low CAP Index Crime Score of 3 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4 out of 10.

Ed Coombs
Written By
Ed Coombs
Stephen Cammell
Photography Contributed By
Stephen Cammell
Jacob Branchaud
Video By
Jacob Branchaud

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

27 min drive

Bus

Lake Murray Bl & Navajo Rd

Bus

Jackson Dr & Boulder Lake Av

Bus

Jackson Dr & Lake Badin Av

Bus

Lake Murray Bl & Lake Aral Dr

Bus

Mission Gorge Rd & West Hills Pkwy

Bus

Jackson Dr & Lake Shore Dr

Bus

Jackson Dr & Twin Lake Dr

Reviews

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Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Lake Murray US
Homicide 2 4
Sexual Assault 3 4
Assault with Weapon 3 4
Robbery 3 4
Burglary 3 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 3 4
Larceny 4 4
Crime Score 3 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Lake Murray Demographics and Home Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$949,450
Median Sale Price
$938,750
Median Single Family Sale Price
$1,006,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$379,000
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$460,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
1%
Last 12 months Home Sales
188
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-2%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$575

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes
5,693
Number of Homes for Sale
18
Median Year Built
1965
Months of Supply
1.10
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,669
Below the national average
1,927
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,318
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,206
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
648
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
6,969

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Nov 29
    12 - 2pm

    8703 Verlane Dr, San Diego, CA 92119

    $1,149,999

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,447 Sq Ft
    • 8703 Verlane Dr
    • New 1 day ago

    Welcome to this beautiful single-story home in the highly sought-after San Carlos neighborhood! Set on a generous corner lot, this property offers exceptional convenience and all amenities including a heated pool, walking distance to shops, restaurants, stores, schools, and easy freeway access. This inviting 4-bedroom, 2-bath residence includes a private-entry primary suite, perfect for added

    Michelle Constantino Redfin Corporation

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  • Saturday, Nov 29
    1 - 3pm

    8665 Lake Murray Blvd Unit 14, San Diego, CA 92119

    $389,000

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 610 Sq Ft
    • 8665 Lake Murray Blvd
    • Unit 14
    • New 5 days ago

    Welcome to this beautifully updated and highly sought-after upstairs unit in the ideally located Casa Dorada community. This home offers the perfect blend of privacy, convenience, and comfort. Featuring beautiful wood flooring and custom blinds, the interior feels modern, bright, and move-in ready. Home is freshly painted and updated with modern lighting and kitchen features. Enjoy peaceful

    Sandra Crosby eXp Realty of California, Inc.

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  • Saturday, Nov 29
    11am - 12:15pm

    6428 Lake Apopka Place, San Diego, CA 92119

    $1,069,500

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,353 Sq Ft
    • 6428 Lake Apopka Place
    • New 9 days ago

    Stunning Remodeled Home with Panoramic Views! Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from this beautifully remodeled home featuring an open, light-filled floor plan. Upgrades include a brand-new kitchen with custom cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, upgraded electrical and designer lighting fixtures, a cozy fireplace, and custom new showers with modern plumbing fixtures. With a

    Ali Baha Serv Corp.

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
17,381
Median Age
42
Population Density
6 ppl/acre
Population under 18
23%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
20.8%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$110,294
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$134,760

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
94.9%
College Graduates
50.7%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
19.7%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
66.7%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
12''
Average Winter Low Temperature
42°F
Average Summer High Temperature
88°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

0 / 100

Minimal Transit

Transit Score®

0 / 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.

Nearby Neighborhoods

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
Lake Murray