While San Diego may be known for its sunny climate and a dazzling array of beaches, the city is also home to a number of wealthy communities. This list of the ten wealthiest neighborhoods in San Diego will help you decide which of the city’s upscale areas to call home.
hash-mark10 Richest Neighborhoods in San Diego (2024)
- Coronado
- Mission Hills
- Kensington
- Scripps Ranch
- Point Loma
- Rancho Penasquitos
- La Jolla
- Bankers Hill
- Sabre Springs
- Torrey Pines
hash-mark1. Coronado
The richest neighborhood in San Diego is Coronado, with a median home price of $2,450,000. Connected to downtown San Diego by the iconic Coronado Bridge, the island of Coronado is a wealthy area with much to offer. Only 6 miles from the city center, this area is home to about 19,000 people who prefer the area for its high quality of life. Renowned for its pristine beaches, world-famous Hotel del Coronado, and iconic mansions, Coronado offers its residents a resort-like atmosphere with stunning scenery.
hash-mark2. Mission Hills
The richest neighborhood in San Diego is Mission Hills. Situated roughly 3 miles north of downtown San Diego, this neighborhood is home to about 9,000 people and is well-known for both its elegance and sophistication. The area boasts an array of magnificent homes, many of which feature historic architecture and breathtaking views of the city and bay. Other desirable features here include tree-lined streets and close proximity to downtown amenities. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that homes for sale in Mission Hills average at a price of $1.7 Million, making it the single-richest place to live in San Diego.
hash-mark3. Kensington
Kensington is another one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in San Diego. A hidden gem located about 7 miles from the city center, just east of Balboa Park, this area is mainly known for its affluent resident base and upscale charm. Kensington is a popular choice among the San Diego elite, featuring beautiful Spanish-style homes, meticulously landscaped gardens, and a strong sense of community. Residents will also enjoy Kensington’s variety of boutique shops, trendy cafes, and upscale dining establishments – all of which enhance its allure as an exclusive residential enclave. Home values in Kensington average $1.35 million, making it an essential part of San Diego’s richest neighborhoods.
hash-mark4. Scripps Ranch
Scripps Ranch is another one of the richest neighborhoods in San Diego. The quiet bedroom community is home to an estimated 36,000 residents. It’s located in the northeastern part of San Diego, about 17 miles from downtown. Full of natural beauty, Scripps Ranch is home to Miramar Reservoir and features gorgeous rows of mature eucalyptus trees that line the streets of the neighborhood. It’s in a very central location close to sandy beaches, top-rated schools, entertainment venues, and the airport. It’s also one of San Diego’s more affluent communities, with a median household income of $115,000. The average home price is also $1.33 million.
hash-mark5. Point Loma
Perched on a picturesque peninsula roughly 8 miles west of downtown, Point Loma is another one of the richest neighborhoods in San Diego for sea lovers. Home to about 14,000 people, this area captivates residents with breathtaking views of both the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. In addition to its expansive homes and affluent ambiance, Point Loma also possesses an active, closely-knit community. This helps keep the neighborhood family-friendly and full of local events and activities. Home values in Point Loma average $1.31 Million, making it an exclusive addition to San Diego’s most expensive places to live.
hash-mark6. Rancho Penasquitos
Rancho Penasquitos is another one of the most affluent neighborhoods in San Diego. It’s a peaceful, suburban community in the northeastern part of the city, about 20 miles from downtown. The neighborhood is surrounded by nature, and more than one-third of the neighborhood is reserved for open space and parks, with easy access to the Black Mountain Open Space Park, Sabre Springs Open Space, and more. Rancho Penasquitos is a planned urban community with great schools, community events, and quiet tree-lined blocks. It’s also a very wealthy area with a median household income of $118,000 and an average home price of $1.3 million.
hash-mark7. La Jolla
Often hailed as San Diego’s crown jewel, La Jolla represents the epitome of coastal luxury. Located about 13 miles away from the city center, this exclusive neighborhood is ideal for those who prefer a more private life along the coast. Its local architecture showcases multimillion-dollar homes, oceanfront estates, and panoramic views of the Pacific – all of which keep the area limited to the San Diego elite. Additionally, La Jolla’s stunning coastline, upscale boutiques, fine dining selection, and renowned cultural institutions make it a coveted destination for those interested in the best of luxury living.
hash-mark8. Bankers Hill
Bankers Hill is the second-richest neighborhood in San Diego. Located only two miles north of downtown, this neighborhood is home to just under 6,000 people who appreciate its upscale atmosphere. Known for its residential character and charm, Bakers Hill has a wide selection of residences, from lavish condominiums and high rises to sprawling estates. Locals in this area will also find stunning views of both the San Diego cityscape and the San Diego Bay, as well as convenient access to downtown. With home values averaging at $994k, Bankers Hill is considered the second-most expensive neighborhood in San Diego.
hash-mark9. Sabre Springs
Located in northeastern San Diego, Sabre Springs is a rich area for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Standing out as an affluent community nestled amidst natural beauty, this neighborhood boasts an abundance of upscale homes, meticulously maintained landscapes, and a tranquil atmosphere. But, the true benefit of living in Sabre Springs is its close proximity to nature preserves, hiking trails, and golf courses. Particular favorites in the area include Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, Black Mountain Open Space Park, and Lake Miramar. With home values averaging close to $936k, Sabre Springs is both rich and naturally beautiful.
hash-mark10. Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines is another rich San Diego area for those who prefer to live a little further from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nestled just north of La Jolla, along the area’s picturesque coastline, this area is best known for its natural beauty and affluent residence base of only 5,000 people. In addition to custom-built luxury estates and gated communities, the neighborhood also offers breathtaking ocean views, world-class golf courses, and close proximity to the majestic Torrey Pines State Reserve. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that home values in Torrey Pines average $893k.
