The Best Neighborhoods for Retirees in San Diego

If you're ready to enjoy your golden years in a place that offers gorgeous year-round weather, breathtaking coastal views, and a vibrant community, look no further than San Diego.

Here, we'll go over factors to consider when choosing a neighborhood to settle down in and provide a quick overview of some of the most desirable suburbs for retirees.

What to Look for When Choosing a Neighborhood

Amenities

You've worked hard over your lifetime–now it's time to enjoy retirement fully, and access to amenities can help you do just that.

When considering the best San Diego neighborhoods for retirement, consider buying a home close to recreational facilities, healthcare, and grocery stores. Easy access to everyday essentials can offer peace of mind, and choosing a location near cultural attractions, parks, and public transportation can help you maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Safety

Neighborhoods with well-maintained infrastructure, visible police presence, and low crime rates can help create a peaceful, relaxed living environment. Conduct thorough research before hitting the real estate market to narrow your search and more quickly find the perfect home to retire in.

Community

For those who enjoy get-togethers and staying socially active, you'll want to choose a neighborhood with a strong sense of community. Look for signs of organized events, community centers, and clubs, as they'll offer opportunities to stay connected with others and build new, meaningful relationships.

Start Your Search In These Neighborhoods

Not sure where to start your search for the perfect home? Here's a list of ten welcoming San Diego communities–five with higher living costs and five with lower costs–that can help you get started.

5 Suburbs With a Higher Cost of Living

1. La Jolla

Enjoy the luxurious lifestyle you've earned in the gorgeous neighborhood of La Jolla. Home to top-rated medical centers, boutique shopping, fine dining, and numerous cultural attractions like the Museum of Contemporary Art, La Jolla is a fantastic place to retire.

2. Del Mar

Boasting a serene environment, Del Mar offers golf courses, hiking trails, and the world-famous Del Mar fairgrounds. If you're looking for a peaceful yet active lifestyle, this Southern California suburb is hard to beat.

3. Carlsbad

Blending coasting living with suburban amenities, this family-friendly community is perfect for those looking for outdoor activities. From exploring the flower fields to going for a walk on the beach, there's always something to enjoy in the great outdoors of Carlsbad.

4. Rancho Bernardo

Home to several senior centers and retirement communities, Rancho Bernardo is a popular choice for retirees. With its parks, rolling hills, and proximity to wineries, it's a peaceful paradise with plenty of opportunities for socializing.

5. Universal City

If you retire in Universal City, you'll appreciate the area's walkability and parks, as well as the many educational and cultural events hosted by the nearby University of California, San Diego. Plus, featuring an array of dining options and shopping centers, this suburb caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.

5 Suburbs With a Lower Cost of Living

1. Normal Heights

Normal Heights's central location offers easy access to many parts of San Diego, making it the perfect place for those who want to stay connected to city life without being in the middle of it.

2. Linda Vista

A multicultural neighborhood renowned for its affordability, the community-oriented suburb of Linda Vista makes it an attractive option for retirees of all budgets. There's a great mix of single-family homes and apartments, ensuring all can find their dream retirement home.

3. Chula Vista

With a low crime rate and growing retiree population, Chula Vista is a fantastic community with a host of amenities. From the Chula Vista Marina to the Living Coast Discovery Center, parks, and shopping centers, there's never a dull moment.

4. El Cajon

El Cajon's friendly atmosphere, proximity to downtown San Diego, and easy access to healthcare facilities make it an excellent choice for retirees. Look forward to community events, strolls in local parks, and superb dining options.

5. South Bay

With neighborhoods like Imperial Beach and National City, the South Bay area offers a coastal lifestyle at an affordable price. Thanks to ongoing development and investments throughout the region, this area is becoming increasingly popular with retirees.

Find the Perfect Place to Retire With Help From The Selby Team

Ready to enjoy retirement? Let The Selby Team help you find the perfect place to call home! We look forward to showing you around the San Diego neighborhoods that will complement your lifestyle–get started now!