Del Mar is the kind of place where you lower your blood pressure on your morning walk on the beach and then raise it again – but in a fun way – cheering at a horse race in the afternoon. Receiving an “A+” from [**Niche.com in the Public Schools**](https://www.niche.com/k12/d/del-mar-union-elementary-school-district-ca/), Good for Families, Weather and Health & Fitness categories, an “A” in Outdoor Activities, and “A-” in Nightlife and Commute, Del Mar is one of the top suburbs to live in within the San Diego area. 

Let’s start with how people “get away from it all” in Del Mar. The neighborhoods feel secluded and serene. The ocean is often a walkable distance from your front door and even if it’s not, the hilly terrain of the city means houses have a better chance of scoring that ocean view. It’s a small, tight-knit community. You’re going to know your neighbors, and you’re going to see them out and about like you would living in a small town. You can destress in a million ways: watch for dolphins playing in the waves, enjoy the surf at 15th Street Beach or hike the trails in the nearby nature reserve.

Now, if you’re looking for something to do, and for an attraction big enough to bring your friends from all over, Del Mar has that too. When the summer months welcome an influx of visitors interested in everything from the pristine beaches to your town’s cultural events, you’ll feel like where you live is “the place to be.” The [**Del Mar Race Track**](https://www.dmtc.com/), an iconic horse track, attracts fans from around the world. The [**Del Mar Fairgrounds**](https://delmarfairgrounds.com/) hosts everything from the San Diego County Fair to holiday festivals to wild rides to live music concerts.

And if having all this at your fingertips isn’t enough, you’ve got downtown San Diego and the airport not too far away either. If you like Del Mar but want slightly fewer crowd-attracting events, check out our post on [**Solana Beach**](https://lookyloomove.com/locations/solana-beach), which borders Del Mar to the north. 



The Place to Get Away + The Place to Be

The Best Thing About Del Mar?

If you’re looking to move to Del Mar, chances are you already know that the cost of living is a hindrance to many potential residents, so we chose to focus on something else for this section instead: seasonal tourist crowds. Turns out that living next to popular cultural attractions does have its downsides. In summer months, residents can expect impressive crowds of visitors on their way to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, world-famous Del Mar Race Track, one of the city’s beaches or any number of other cultural events and festivals that cycle through town in this season. 

Residents with a more flexible schedule have learned to be creative, working around the busiest times of day, but it can still grow tiresome as the summer progresses. As a town known for most of the year as a serene and peaceful place, the influx of visitors during peak seasons, and the traffic and noise that they bring with them, can be a bit jarring for some. That said, some residents really enjoy the spike in energy around town that coincides with these events.


The Tourists

The Worst Thing About Del Mar?

The people of Del Mar chose to live here because it has a bit of everything: cozy coastal community meets high-end amenities meets family-friendly atmosphere meets iconic cultural attractions. It’s the kind of place where you find your center while walking your dog at North Beach, then lose your balance a bit after a few drinks at Monarch’s rooftop bar in the downtown area. The only people who feel like there isn’t quite enough to do are the young professionals looking for an abundance of nightlife options, whereas Del Mar residents prefer things a little more subdued.

There’s an even split between renters and homeowners in Del Mar. With a distinct and varied housing market, residents can find everything from a $1.8 million fixer-upper condo to a $10+ million oceanfront oasis. Median sales prices for single-family homes hover around $2.9 million.

For most, the prices are worth it. One way to look at it is residents are paying for ‘connection.’ Connection to nature via the incredible beaches, parks and nearby nature reserve – only made more accessible by the year-round 60’s-70’s temps. Connection to culture via the high-end artisanal shops, art galleries and annual festivals. And, not to sound too cheesy, but also connection with one another via community building events like the local farmer’s market, beach cleanups and neighborhood gatherings. 


Beach Town with a Side of Boujee

Lifestyle of Del Mar

The [**Del Mar Union School District**](https://www.dmusd.org/) and the [**San Dieguito Union High School District**](https://www.sduhsd.net/) offer families an array of top-rated schools to choose from. The former consists of eight K-6 schools. In conjunction with schools in the Solana Beach School District, the Del Mar Union elementary schools typically feed into Carmel Valley Middle School, followed by Torrey Pines High School or Canyon Crest Academy. Well regarded for its high standardized test scores, these districts are top performers in San Diego County. The high degree of academic excellence they inspire mixed with the warm, welcoming and tight-knit community of Del Mar make this city a popular place to raise a family. 

Beyond public offerings, families will also find satisfactory private schooling options. Within city limits, [**Del Mar Pines School**](https://delmarpines.com/) offers a private alternative to the eight public K-6 schools, and beyond, [**La Jolla Country Day School**](https://www.ljcds.org/), [**The Cambridge School**](https://www.cambridgeclassical.org/) and [**The Grauer School**](https://www.grauerschool.com/) are just a few of the most popular offerings in neighboring cities.


Some of the Best in the Area

Schools in Del Mar

Like other small towns planted on California’s coastline, demand is high and space is, well, limited. Even with Del Mar’s way above average cost of living, everyone from young families to retirees are vying for their place in this upscale beach city. If you’re looking for your quintessential coastal lifestyle with great amenities and access to downtown San Diego and the airport, we suggest you begin your search sooner rather than later. 


Space is Limited

Why You Should Move Here Now

Located right on the coast, Del Mar Village offers the best of beachside living without sacrificing urban sophistication. Residents love the ease of this intimate community. Imagine living steps from sandy beaches, able to unwind easily everyday thanks to a sweet smelling breeze and the relaxing lapping of waves over the shore. You’d be feeling pretty chill, too, right? The quiet tree-lined streets wind by a mix of architectural styles, ranging from quaint beach cottages to contemporary luxury homes. 

But don’t think this neighborhood lacks exciting activities. Del Mar Village is home to the world-renowned Del Mar Race Track. Here, you can get lost in the lively atmosphere of a horse racing venue that attracts sport lovers from around the world. Also a short distance from residences is the Del Mar Plaza and downtown area, where you can splurge on a fine dining experience, find the perfect gift at an upscale boutique or just sip a great cocktail while enjoying the views. You’re sure to see someone you know, whether you’re grabbing groceries or attending an art festival. As a gathering place for locals, the downtown area helps knit a strong sense of community. 


Families/DINKs

Del Mar Village

Del Mar Heights sits on a hillside, offering residents unique and striking views of the Pacific Ocean. Like other parts of Del Mar, here serenity and tranquility abound. Housing options range from custom-built homes to spacious estates. Residents enjoy easy access to entertainment and attractions, like those found at [**Del Mar Highlands Town Center**](https://delmarhighlandstowncenter.com/). Also nearby, [**Torrey Pines State Park Natural Reserve**](https://torreypine.org/) attracts hikers looking to explore the coastal wilderness via the reserve’s scenic trail system. Also notable is the neighborhood’s connected community. Intentional gatherings in the form of neighborhood picnics and community festivals encourage neighbors to socialize and bond through shared experiences. The most frequently mentioned drawback of this neighborhood is the higher price point compared to other neighborhoods in Del Mar, and the hilly terrain that may impact accessibility for some. 


Families

Del Mar Heights

On the south side of Del Mar, Del Mar Terrace stands out for its sense of privacy and peacefulness. Looking at the map, you see that the area is surrounded by nature on three sides: Los Penasquitos Lagoon to the south, Pacific Ocean to the west and an extension of the Torrey Pines State Reserve to the north. This serene setting, however, does not mean it isn’t bustling with activity in certain areas, like along Carmel Valley Road which borders the neighborhood to the south. Here, residents find plenty of restaurants and entertainment, in addition to the relatively close by [**Del Mar Plaza**](https://delmarplaza.com/) and [**Del Mar Fairgrounds**](https://delmarfairgrounds.com/).

Driving through Del Mar Terrace, you see everything from A-frames to enormous architectural masterpieces. Homes here are unique. Topographical challenges like sandstone cliffs, varying lot sizes and the area’s interesting history of slow, uneven development made it so. Tree-lined streets have maintained their 1913 charm, and a popular walking loop at the highest point of the neighborhood adds enjoyment to this already very walkable area. 

Popular with families and individuals alike, this neighborhood’s well-established charm and distance from busy freeways make it the perfect spot for those looking for calm surroundings that are a short drive from entertainment options.


Del Mar Terrace

In Del Mar Woods, luxury meets laid back coastal living. Residents enjoy sophisticated and distinct homes and townhomes within this exclusive, gated community. Upscale amenities include a private pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse. Beautifully manicured green spaces and safe walking paths pair nicely with the natural beauty of the coastal landscape. Not to mention, residents enjoy great proximity to the beach. For individuals and families looking to be set apart from the greater Del Mar community, this private neighborhood may be perfect for their next home.


Del Mar Woods

As the name implies, this neighborhood stands apart for its coastal heritage. First established as a seaside resort in the 19th century, the charm and historical architecture of the area sit beautifully preserved just steps from the pristine beaches that first attracted developers to this spot. Here you’ll find an array of home styles, including Spanish Colonial and Cape Cod-inspired houses mixed amongst updated modern marvels. 

In Olde Del Mar, residences strike a balance between nostalgia and modern elegance. Find your zen walking amongst tree-lined streets and landscaped gardens, or enjoy a lively night out in the vibrant downtown area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, popular restaurants and eclectic cafes. Because it has so much unique character and larger lots to offer, you’ll see home buyers spend $3 million for a home they plan to remodel or $6-7+ million for something more move-in ready. As you get closer to the ocean, home prices skyrocket above $7 million. Luckily, because this neighborhood is on the hilly side, you don’t have to be right next to the ocean to get those highly sought-after ocean views.


Olde Del Mar

Del Mar

**Moving to SD- So many neighborhoods! It is looking like I have a job offer in San Diego, and will be moving from Arizona in the next couple of months. Yay for not melting this summer! That said- I don’t even know where to begin looking for a place.**

**I’m turning 38, female, with a dog. I don’t go out very often, and when I do I’m back home and in bed at a decent hour. I eat out a lot (which I should stop doing). I like to be in or around nature, but am not super active-outdoorsy, just laid back outdoorsy. If that’s a thing. I won’t know anyone, so making friends will be a priority. My job will be in Mission Valley, but I don’t mind somewhat of a commute.**

**Any suggestions?**


Nightlife is downtown/hillcrest/little italy. Hipsters are south park/north park. The beach scene is ocean beach/mission beach. La Jolla is swanky/snooty.

Based on your comments, I think Del Mar might be a good option. Laid back, outdoors things to do (beach and hikes), good restaurants, upscale but not dickish, and about 30 min. to mission valley.

**Moving to San Diego area! Can’t decide between Del Mar, Downtown or mission valley area. Any advise? No family/kids. I prefer quite places with lots of nice restaurants.**

Are you buying or renting? Mission Valley is convenient. But very boring. It's condos, apartments. And strip malls situated between highways.

Downtown - can be very nice if you pay $$$. Lots of homeless. It isn't like many cities and most people almost never go downtown unless they are going to a baseball game or clubbing or work there.

Del Mar is quiet and $$$. Rich, beach vibe. May be great if you work around there.

**Insight into San Diego living**

San Diego is generally known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, and many people find it relatively easy to make new friends. The city attracts a diverse population, including locals and transplants, which contributes to a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Some of the nice and safe areas to stay in that are close to the beach and walkable include:

La Jolla: Located along the coastline, La Jolla is an affluent neighborhood with beautiful beaches, upscale shops, and restaurants. It offers a luxurious and picturesque living experience.

Del Mar: Situated north of downtown, Del Mar is a charming coastal community known for its stunning beaches, upscale homes, and a laid-back lifestyle.

Coronado: Just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado is an idyllic island community with pristine beaches, a historic hotel, and a quaint downtown area. It offers a luxurious and relaxed atmosphere.

Encinitas: Located north of San Diego, Encinitas offers a coastal living experience with beautiful beaches, a vibrant downtown area, and a thriving surf culture.

Areas to exercise caution and potentially stay away from in San Diego include certain neighborhoods with higher crime rates, such as parts of Southeast San Diego, City Heights, and some areas near downtown. It's always recommended to research specific neighborhoods and consult with locals or real estate professionals for the most up-to-date information on safety.

Del Mar, California

Serene Ambiance Meets Exhilarating Events

Looklyloo Score: 85

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