Hillcrest

To Downtown San Diego: 10 minutes

ZIP CODE 10977

For Sell $7.99K - $2M
For Rent $795 - $10K

Local information

School

1 Elementary School
1 Middle School

Crime

Moderate crime relative to the rest of San Diego county.

Commute

92% of residents commute by car.

Shop & Eat

236 Restaurants
28 Groceries
80 Nightlife

General Description

The great vibe of Hillcrest

Hillcrest, California is a welcoming, progressive community that is home to a large LGBTQ+ population and hosts one of the most impressive Pride parades in the nation each year. In addition, The San Diego LGBT Community Center is located just blocks away on nearby Harvey Milk Street for more support and resources. The neighborhood’s unique identity makes it a desirable place to live, yet rents are reasonable and the average mortgage sits around $701,427 (nearly 200K lower than San Diego’s average).

This Uptown neighborhood is located just north of Downtown San Diego and the famed Balboa Park. The area was mostly developed during the 1910s and 1920s before briefly declining after WW2. Prior gentrification of the area began in the 1970s primarily by the local gay and lesbian community. Today, Hillcrest continues to have a high population density and a lively, vibrant culture that accepts everyone.

In addition to the Pride Festival, Hillcrest is known for various other street festivals including the annual Taste of Hillcrest event, Hillcrest “CityFest”, and Mardi Gras. Other community events include a weekly farmer’s market, a monthly classic car show, and a monthly art market.

Most local businesses are located along the major thoroughfares of University Avenue, Washington Street, and 5th Avenue. Trendy boutiques, restaurants, and bars line the streets and patio dining is popular. This walkable village is pedestrian-friendly with a walk score of 85, and the area is also well-connected via public transportation. Commuters will enjoy a short trip to work in Downtown San Diego and many other commercial hubs, as well as easy access to the nearby San Diego International Airport.

Like most of Southern California, the weather in Hillcrest is mild, and residents enjoy warm, sunny temperatures for the vast majority of the year. Outdoor spaces in the area like West Lewis Street Pocket Park and Morley Field Dog Park provide the perfect place to throw a frisbee, walk the dog, or have a picnic with your partner. Nearby hiking options include Cabrillo Canyon, Arroyo Canyon, and Camelot Canyon for those who love to stay active.

In addition to being a great place to work and play, Hillcrest is also a foodie’s paradise. Local favorites include Ortega’s Bistro, Hash House, Bronx Pizza, and Crest Café. The area is well known for its diverse nightlife, and the local bar scene includes community staples such as Urban MO’s, The Wine Lover, Brass Rail, Alibi, and The Lamplighter. There is no shortage of things to do, places to go, and people to meet at any hour of the day in Hillcrest.

Other notable local landmarks include the Hillcrest Brewing Company, the historic Hillcrest sign, and the Hillcrest Pride flag. Overall, this tiny little neighborhood packs a powerful (and colorful) punch and serves as a major hub for local arts and culture. This unique vibe makes Hillcrest one of the best places to live in all of Southern California. In fact, in 2007 the neighborhood made The American Planning Association’s list of top Ten Great Places in America: Neighborhoods.

More Features

Best of all, Hillcrest residents are invested in the health and well-being of their fellow citizens, and community participation is high. There are many ways to get involved in the community, including:

Hillcrest Business Association
https://www.hillcrestbia.org

Hillcrest Town Council
https://www.hillcresttc.org

Plan Hillcrest
https://www.planhillcrest.org

Hillcrest History Guild
https://www.hillcresthistory.org

Save Hillcrest
https://www.savehillcrest.com

Hillcrest Youth Center
https://thecentersd.org/programs/youth-services/hillcrest-youth-center

The San Diego LGBT Community Center
https://thecentersd.org

Whether you’re seeking a friendly community, looking for a closer commute to downtown, or enjoy the unique appeal of a historic gentrified area, Hillcrest checks all the boxes. Give this vibrant town a visit today to experience the magic for yourself.

Recommended for you

Sort Option
  • Price
  • Pictures
  • Add date
  • Listing
  • Property Type
  • Featured
Grid
List
Map

Residential Income Additional

4209-4221 W Third St, Mission Hills Ca 92103

14Bedroom(s)
30Picture(s)
These are truly unique units in Hillcrest area. Located between Scripps Med Center and USD Med Center, walking distance to both. 9 total units on two tax parcels. 5 units on one property, 4 on the other. First property is a small house in front, with 4 1/1 units in back. Second Parcel is 4 2/1 units. These well maintain units all have below market rents being collected.
$4,000,000

Residential For Sale 1 Bedroom 1756 Essex St UNIT 311, Mission Hills CA 92103 - Scottway - San Diego Real Estate

1756 Essex St UNIT 311, Mission Hills CA 92103

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
Garage(Assigned)Parking(s)
14Picture(s)
608
Fantastic location in a quiet street, within walking distance to Trader Joe's, Ralph's, Whole Food, restaurants, coffee shops and everything Hillcrest has to offer. 1 bedroom, 1 bath room, 3rd floor unit, 608 sq ft. Updated with quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, dual vanity sinks. Laminated flooring.
$540,000

Residential Lease

3412 Unit A Jackdaw, Mission Hills Ca 92103

1Bathroom(s)
10Picture(s)
660
Fabulous loft living tucked away in one of San Diego's most beautiful canyons! Enter through your own private entrance to a truly amazing space--16' ceiling, wonderful details such as an acrylic floor in the loft and all appliances including gas range, microwave, washer and dryer are included. Dedicated large patio area.
$2,950

Land

4325 6th Avenue, Mission Hills CA 92103

8Picture(s)
0.36Acre
An amazing development opportunity in the coveted Hillcrest location. Owner maintains nearly finished and approved plans from City of San Diego. Current plan is 12-unit multi-level spacious layout with parking.
$2,500,000

Residential Lease

3815 3rd Ave Apt 32, Mission Hills Ca 92103

1Bedroom(s)
1Bathroom(s)
Non-Garage(Assigned)Parking(s)
8Picture(s)
643
Welcome to your new home in the heart of Hillcrest, this Condo unit has a large living room with a balcony and view. The kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances, refrigerator, stove, microwave and dishwasher. Small bar area at entry. Good size primary bedroom with large closet. This building with security door access is close to all.
$2,200

Residential For Sale 7 Bedrooms 1300 W W Walnut Ave, Mission Hills Ca 92103 - Scottway - San Diego Real Estate

1300 W W Walnut Ave, Mission Hills Ca 92103

7Bedroom(s)
7Bathroom(s)
Garage(Attached)Parking(s)
66Picture(s)
6,306
Welcome to 1300 W Walnut Ave., a stunning showcase of architectural brilliance by acclaimed architect Frank Polk, nestled in the coveted Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. Pictures simply do not convey just how majestic and beautiful this home is.
$2,999,000
118 Results returned.Per Page

There are more communities to explore!