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.