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.
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.
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.
$465,000
1344
sqft2
Baths2
Beds Welcome to the Ocean View retreat! Beautifully renovated home at Palomar Estates West offers a perfect blend of modern luxury and comfort. As you enter inside the living room that offers a vaulted ceiling and a large dual-pane windows that capturing the Ocean View enhance home's light and airy feel. The perfect open layout flows into the dining area and brand new kitchen with self-closing drawers, farm sink, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances including refrigerator, large kitchen island and a walk-in pantry. Additional sunroom would be ideal for the morning cup of coffee or afternoon gathering. Exquisite main bedroom has an on- suite bathroom with walk-in shower, single slab quartz, new vanities, fixtures, and walk-in closets. Other upgrades include New Roof, luxury flooring throughout the home, drywall interior, custom painted inside and outside, new doors, upgraded electric and LED recessed lighting, newer A/C and water heater. Enjoy the ocean breeze in a fully landscaped backyard, 2 carport parking with additional guest parking on the side and shed. Palomar Estates West 55+/35+ senior residence. Rent controlled park has numerous entertainment and activities, heated pool/spa, gym, clubhouse, pickleball/ tennis courts, RV parking, car wash. Minutes to the dining, shops, Lake San Marcos and its golf courses as well as Bressi Ranch Village, Flower fields and Carlsbad beaches.
1991
sqft3.5
Baths4
Beds Set on nearly half an acre of flat, usable land, this stunning Mid-Century Modern home has been fully transformed with top-of-the-line upgrades throughout. The new renovation featuring brand-new cabinetry with extra storage, a deep XL sink, sleek quartz countertops, an expansive 8-foot island with bar seating, a custom pot filler, and a professional Thor 36-inch 6-burner range—perfect for both everyday cooking and entertaining. White Oak engineered wood floors flow seamlessly through the home, complemented by large baseboards, new solid core wood doors, and elegant trim work. Just one street away from Carlsbad, you’ll enjoy coastal living without the high price tag. With NO HOA, this 4-bedroom home also includes a versatile bonus room ideal for a gym, office, or playroom. The living area opens up with a new 12-foot bi-fold glass doors, inviting you into a private backyard oasis with a serene courtyard, new wood fencing, custom gates, and fresh stucco. Enjoy the shade of mature fruit trees—including apples, avocados, guavas, and more—or dine al fresco in the peaceful outdoor space. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat, offering an expanded spa-inspired bathroom with dual vanities, a huge walk-in shower, and a large walk-in closet. Thoughtful touches include a built-in laundry room with custom cabinets, and additional powder room. With room for an ADU, RV parking, or extra toys, this home has it all, offering modern luxury and timeless style in one perfect package.
1224
sqft2
Baths2
Beds Fantastic location! Welcome to a step back in time. An original 1972 free standing condominium with exception of newer double glazed windows throughout. This home is an opportunity to express your design and decorative imagination. It is in the middle of most, if not all, of Lake San Marcos amenities. Across the street is the Lakehouse Resort with restaurants, boating and water sports. Down the street is the champion 18 hole golf course, clubhouse and restaurant. Nearby are tennis, pickleball and paddle tennis courts. Also available are two swimming pools and a gym. The courts pools and gym are accessed by membership in the Lake and Lodge. Resort living at its finest. 20 plus clubs to choose from if you want to get involved.
1165
sqft2
Baths3
Beds Nestled in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood of San Marcos, this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and outdoor space. The star of the property is the massive backyard, ideal for building an ADU or just entertaining. The home features a spacious living area, a bright kitchen with modern appliances, and well-sized bedrooms. With easy access to nearby parks, top-rated schools, and shopping, this home is a true gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat with plenty of room to grow.
1082
sqft2
Baths3
Beds Adorable, rare to find single story 3br/2ba, 1084 sq. ft., 1 car garage townhome. Great floorplan with inviting living room, no neighbors below or above, freshly painted, newer carpet in bedrooms. Large, private patio and laundry room too. Water and trash are included in the rent. No washer/dryer and refrigerator. Beautiful complex offers community pool, tennis courts and playground. Wonderful neighborhood close to freeways, schools and shopping. Available on 10/6/24.
1458
sqft3.5
Baths3
Beds Live the ultimate San Elijo Hills lifestyle in this beautifully updated former model home, located just 15 minutes from Carlsbad State Beach. With 2 large bedrooms, a versatile office (or potential 3rd bedroom), and 2.5 baths spanning 1,458 square feet, this home offers both flexibility and comfort. The open floor plan and soaring high ceilings create a bright and airy atmosphere, with abundant natural light flowing through the living spaces. The heart of the home, a fully upgraded kitchen, boasts modern finishes and an under-sink water filter for pure, clean water right at your fingertips. Step outside to your private patio, the perfect spot to relax or grill up dinner with friends and family. Equipped with smart home technology, including a Nest Learning Thermostat, Nest Protect, a Nest Yale Smart Lock, and a Ring Doorbell, this home ensures a seamless blend of modern convenience, security, and energy efficiency. Convenience continues with a full-size laundry space located on the main floor, and the oversized two-car garage features epoxy floors, custom shelving, and a moveable workbench for ample storage and organization. The community offers resort-style amenities with a heated pool, spa, and BBQ area for year-round enjoyment. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the miles of scenic trails just across the street, while shopping, dining, and entertainment options abound with Town Center, The Forum, and Fox Point Farms nearby. This home combines modern living with coastal charm in one of the most sought-after areas.
2074
sqft2
Baths3
Beds Discover your dream home in the scenic Lake San Marcos community! This beautifully updated single-level home features 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms on a nearly 1/4 acre lot with relaxing views of the 14th hole of The Links at The Lakehouse Golf Course. Recent renovations include a new roof, woodgrain porcelain tile flooring, designer carpet, fresh interior and exterior paint, and a completely remodeled hallway bathroom. Additional upgrades include AC, dual-pane windows, a gourmet custom kitchen with granite countertops and a large island, stainless steel appliances, whole house water filtration system, new hardscape and new retaining walls. The oversized lot offers seclusion from neighbors and ample space for RV or boat parking. Relax on the large patio, sipping iced tea while enjoying the peacefulness of the golf course. Close proximity to shopping and top-rated schools. All Lake amenities are included for a nominal yearly fee: 24/7 security, boating, fishing, tennis, paddle and pickleball, a billiard room, kayaking, and access to all clubs and organizations and discounts on dining. With no HOA or Mello Roos fees, this home provides exceptional value. Don't miss this opportunity to own a slice of paradise in Lake San Marcos! Certain photos are virtually staged.
2219
sqft3
Baths4
Beds Located in desirable San Marcos, this 4BD/3BA home offers 2219 SqFt of functional living. Featuring 1 bed/bath on the main floor and an oversized upstairs bedroom that could easily be converted into 2 rooms or serve as a 2nd primary bedroom. Enjoy a bonus upstairs loft space, perfect for a sitting, play or homework area. A convenient 1st-floor laundry room, new HVAC system, fresh paint inside & out, with recently tuned-up roof, and upgraded LED lighting throughout. Soaring ceilings in the living room enhance natural light and make a great 1st impression when entering the house. Well maintained and ready for move in or add your own design touch. Close to San Marcos HS, Lake San Marcos, Carlsbad, shopping, & dining.
Mark S. Mcdonald
619-665-4614
mark.mcdonald@pacificsir.com
DRE# 01154045
Fara Fashandi
858-339-7311
fara.fashandi@pacificsir.com
DRE# 01339461
Powered by: 
