Cortez

The community of Cortez Hill is unique in every way, starting with its name: “Cortez” comes from the local, historic Cortez Hotel.

The community is located northeast of Downtown San Diego. Specifically, it’s north of the Core District, south of Bankers’ Hill, west of Balboa Park and east of Little Italy. The district is also bordered by Ash Street/A Street to the south, Interstate 5 to the north, Front Street to the West and 11th Avenue/SR 163 to the east. One of San Diego’s oldest neighborhoods, Cortez has attracted residents for over a century and still retains its original Victorian style dwellings from late-19^th century settlers.

The Redevelopment Agency decided to revive this district in 1992 by further developing the hill for residential use and also encouraging a mix of commercial and residential infill. The western portion of Cortez Hill now comprises churches, schools, all part of a bustling and pedestrian-friendly environment. You’ll also find cozy sidewalk cafes lining Fifth and Sixth Avenues and Ash Street, which provides a gateway to the waterfront. Sophisticated mid-level complexes, modern high-rise condominiums, and a historical aesthetic all accentuate this intimate neighborhood.