Another added benefit of moving to San Diego is the all-important health factor. Your heart will surely thank you for the healthier lifestyle that San Diego will encourage. San Diego scored high (eighteenth) in the 2011 Walkscore study that looked at 50 of the largest cities in the United States.
In addition, San Diego made the Forbes Top Ten List of Safest Cities to Live. In an age where safety and crime rates are on everyone's radar, it is good to see that a populous city like San Diego can still make the top-ten safest list.
But wait, there's more. Now there is another compelling reason to move to San Diego. Housing prices have fallen significantly. The sky high prices of 2005 have come down by over 35%. Still by no means the cheapest options in the country, but if you are willing to search carefully, there are good deals out there. For the money, you will be moving to one of the most desired cities in the country.
Here are some properties that represent the more affordable deals in San Diego:
Tucked away in the popular neighborhood of Hillcrest, is this Tuscan-style 2-bedroom, 2-bath unit in a lovely complex. This home is offered at $299,000, but is listed as a Short Sale.
Not far away, and in the same general area is this small 1-bed, 1-bath, condo going for just over $193,000. At only 641 square feet, this is by no means a large home, but it makes up for it with its prime location. It is situated close to all the attractions: parks, shopping, restaurants and easy access to the highway. Homeowner association fees are under $300, but the facility has a pool and a fitness center.
Just west of prime Hillcrest is another very popular and sought-after neighborhood. Mission Hills is north of downtown San Diego, and overlooks Old Town and San Diego Bay. This area was developed in the early 20th Century by some of California's best known architects. It now boasts stately homes of magnificent style and top-notch workmanship.
Situated in this desirable neighborhood is this 1-bedroom, 1-bath mid-rise listed at a reasonable $169,000. This pet-friendly complex includes a pool, and its prime location overlooks the nearby canyon.
If what you are looking for is a stand-alone home, there are some available in this great area as well. But you will have to be willing to up your budget a little. Still good value, though, considering this is San Diego. Here is a detached 2-bed, 2-bath Craftsman bungalow listed at $398,000.
These are only a few of the many options available in this vibrant and exciting city of San Diego. But they will give you an idea of what you can expect of the housing market in San Diego if you are contemplating a move there. As you can see, the house prices are not necessarily out of the average person's reach, even in the most desirable neighborhoods.
Don't forget to check out my list of other Top Cities to Buy a Home.
