San Marcos is located about 6 miles inland from the ocean and about 30 miles from downtown San Diego. The community covers about 24 square miles and, as of the 2017 census, had about 96,000 residents. Census data also indicate a fairly diverse population.

San Marcos, because of its inland location, tends to offer a warmer climate than Carlsbad. The west side of San Marcos, however, gets some of the same coastal climate (marine layer, ocean breezes, cooler temperatures). San Marcos is a mix of residential and commercial areas, as well as undeveloped space. The 78 freeway provides easy access inland to Escondido and the 15 (north to Riverside County, south to San Diego). Or west to Oceanside, the 5 freeway, the coast and the beaches. San Marcos is home to California State University – San Marcos and Palomar College.

The largest, and newest, housing area in San Marcos is San Elijo Hills. San Elijo Hills is a master planned community located on the southwestern edge of town high in the hills. Other well known neighborhoods include Santa Fe Hills, Discovery Hills, Discovery Meadows, Twin Oaks Valley, and Rancho Dorado. The golf resort/residential community of Lake San Marcos, that includes a 55+ residential area. And the area around Cal State San Marcos continues to grow and change, with new commercial and residential areas (e.g., newer homes at Rancho Tessoro).

The San Marcos real estate market offers a range of housing including apartments, condos, attached and detached homes. There are several 55+ communities, and assisted living facilities. You will also find some new construction by the university currently being built (2022).

San Marcos is known for having a large commercial and retail area, with numerous shops, shopping centers, and restaurants. You’ll find a host of other service and light industrial establishments, especially along San Marcos Boulevard. While you won’t find much high-end shopping, you’ll likely find whatever you need here, with lots of choices. Examples include home improvement/remodeling, electronics, appliances, landscaping, clothing, furniture, gardening, cars/trucks, wines and liquor. There are many small businesses and non-profit organizations, too.
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Much of the shopping is located along Grand Avenue, Rancho Santa Fe Road, and San Marcos Boulevard. The latter is the main thoroughfare running roughly east and west, and becomes Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad.
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While San Marcos may not be known as an eating mecca, there are many restaurants and fast food eateries here. You’ll find a wide array of foods and styles, from extremely casual to relaxed upscale, and to fit every budget. Old California Restaurant Row, on San Marcos Boulevard, has about 14 restaurants (e.g., Fish House Vera Cruz, which includes a seafood market). You’ll find they change from time to time. If you like a variety of foods and are not looking for expensive restaurants, you will be very happy with the broad range of places to dine in San Marcos.

San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306068190
$398,000
1440
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
55+ resident owned community! You own your own land / no space rent! This home is eligible for VA & conventional / Fannie Mae financing! Secluded and private location at the end of a cul-de-sac with curved driveway that provides ample parking for yourself and guests. Upgraded home with PAID FOR SOLAR, new Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring, drywall interior, newer roof (approx 2-3 yrs), new oven and microwave, dual pane windows, and more! Lots of outdoor space for entertaining including a private trek deck with a lovely tree / nature view, a back patio, and a front covered porch. An additional enclosed porch, or California room, provides additional inside living space as well! Sprinkler system. Wheelchair lift conveys! Low HOA fees of only $238 per month include water, trash, and sewer!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 230023631
$850,000
532
sqft
1
Baths
1
Beds
1.21 acre lot with a 532 sq.ft. house and an approximately 1600 sq.ft. detached barn, close to all in the heart of San Marcos. Close to the SR-78 corridor, the Sprinter rail line, downtown San Marcos, Palomar College, CSU San Marcos, San Marcos High School, Creekside Marketplace and more. Ideally suited as a redevelopment opportunity. The property is currently zoned R1-4. It is possible that may change to higher density in the future. Buyer shall verify all. The options are abundant, build your dream home on the upper portion of the lot with gorgeous views to the north, Santa Fe Hills, Vista, Oceanside and more, then split the lower half. There are so many possible options! Bring your creative thought.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306065122
$1,549,000
3453
sqft
5.5
Baths
5
Beds
Welcome to the highly sought after gated neighborhood of Promontory Ridge in San Elijo Hills, where luxury living meets tranquility. This exceptional Plan V residence is rarely available, boasting 5 bedrooms and 4.5 baths, providing an expansive and comfortable living space. Offering a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor makes for a perfect guest quarter or multi-gen living. As you step inside, you will be greeted with a vaulted entry with a grand curved staircase leading to the second story. This home boasts plantation shutters throughout most of the house in addition to electric shades in the primary suite and kitchen, providing both convenience and a modern flair to enhance your living experience. The spacious master bedroom features great views, retreat, fireplace and walk-in closet with built-ins. The elevated pool-size lot contributes to the appeal of this property, along with privacy and views. With original features well-preserved, this home combines timeless elegance with contemporary comfort. Step outside into the tranquil and secluded backyard, a private oasis that beckons relaxation and entertainment and features peak ocean views and gorgeous sunsets. The spacious yard provides ample space for outdoor activities, while a built-in barbecue island with a pergola adds a touch of sophistication to al fresco dining. As the sun sets, gather around the gas fire feature to enjoy the ambiance of your professionally landscaped backyard, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable evenings perfectly lit with outdoor landscape lighting. This home in Promontory
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306066930
$415,000
1760
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Enjoy the amazing views from this home in highly desired Palomar Estates West. You can enjoy views of the ocean and hills from your living room and patio. At 1760 square feet this two bedroom and two bath exceptionally maintained home will give you the space you need. The vinyl dual pane windows will help keep the home comfortable in the wonderful San Marcos weather. The curved awning poles give you extra room for parking in your driveway and the shed will give you storage space. The roof has also been replace recently. Palomar Estates West is a 55+/35+ senior rent controlled park with many amenities including a beautiful clubhouse, pool, spa, gym, putting green, pickleball courts, and tennis courts. This home is located minutes to Lake San Marcos dining and golf as well as local Carlsbad beaches, shopping, and restaurants.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306066932
$1,495,000
2624
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
Now Available - STUNNING PANORAMIC OCEAN, MOUNTAIN, COASTAL AND CITY LIGHT VIEWS! Perched neatly above in the Presitgious Enclave of Altaire, sits this Lovely 3 Bedroom with Loft (4th bedroom option) 2624 Sq. Ft. Charmer! Enjoy the MAIN Floor Master/Primary Suite with Laydown Ocean Views! Dramatic Vaulted Ceilings in Oversized Family Room accented by a Relaxing Fireplace. There is an Open, Spacious Kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances and Granite Tops! Breakfast Bar! Abundant Cabinets and drawers and a bonus workstation adjacent to the kitchen. The exterior grounds are clean and easy to maintain with drought tolerant plants and trees and the backyard is hardscaped for minimal watering. The Tandem 3 Car Garage is convenient for utilizing extra space! Come Enjoy the San Elijo Lifestyle!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306066975
$335,000
1368
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
AMAZING VIEWS and no property taxes with this mobile home! Light bright and open floor plan. This home has been well maintained with new carpet throughout entire house. 4 Producing fruit trees 1 Lemon and 3 Orange! Home shows true pride of ownership. This Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath manufactured home is Located in the desirable Rancho Vallecitos Resort style community with many activities and amenities! Year round heated pool & spa, parties, activities, commercial style kitchen, library, billiards, workout facility, car wash station, topiary garden, & dog park - this place has it all! Plus its conveniently located near the 78 fwy, grocery stores, shopping, restaurants, Sunset Park, Bradley Park as well as beautiful Lake San Marcos and Carlsbad. Its a quick trip to the coast.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 230023568
$1,500,000
1740
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Experience the epitome of Lake San Marcos living in this stunning SINGLE STORY haven located right on the water! Tucked away in the middle of a quiet cul-de-sac, this recently renovated property features access to a shared boat dock right off your backyard, pedal boat conveys. Gorgeous views of the lake and surrounding hills from your back patio & sit down views from the living/dining/& breakfast nook! A gorgeous reimagined kitchen features granite counters, all new cabinetry, and high end stainless steel appliances including the beverage cooler. No expense was spared in remodeling and upgrading both bathrooms with quartz countertops. New furnace and A/C, exterior just painted, updated dual pane windows and sliding doors, luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, vaulted ceilings with tongue and groove boards, and much more!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306062396
$719,900
1144
sqft
3.5
Baths
2
Beds
RARE SAN ELIJO HILLS UNIT WITH PRIVATE YARD AND GORGEOUS VIEWS! Nestled within the desirable gated community of Westridge in picturesque San Elijo Hills, this popular 1144sqft two-story townhome features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths with spacious yard, expansive views and endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. The open concept design offers a kitchen with granite counters, sleek black appliances, and ample cabinets which seamlessly flows into the dining room and living room, creating a welcoming and cohesive living space with its cozy fireplace. Additional upgrades include new paint, some new flooring, A/C, outdoor sprinklers and a 2 car garage. Fridge, washer/dryer included. This desirable condo gives you access to a community pool and spa, offering a resort-like experience just steps away from your home. For nature enthusiasts, hiking trails, nearby park, complete with a dog park adds to the nearby convenience and amenities of beautiful San Elijo Hills including top rated schools, restaurants and retail. A short walk to school and town center! Short drive to the beach and all the fantastic Southern California amenities. Welcome Home! Property is approved for VA Financing too.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306065520
$339,000
1248
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Clean as a whistle and cute as can be! Move-in ready two bedroom two full bath Silvercrest model, 1248 sq. ft. This little gem has been well maintained. Each room shines with fresh paint, and plenty of sunlight. Bright and airy. The cute cafe kitchen has a new disposal, and appliances are in great shape.. Washer and dryer are included. Piers have been recently maintained and leveled to earthquake standards. Master bath has a separate vanity area and a double sink, also shower and bathtub. Located in Palomar East, a premier location, great clubhouse, 55+ community with rent control. How can you miss on this one? Call or text today for showing. 760-330-0197 the price is right!! No showings until 12-9
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