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#: 240007563
$1,249,000
2275
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
Welcome to the beautiful community of Lake San Marcos! This open concept layout home comes with updated bathrooms, premium vinyl flooring, kitchen cabinets, granite counters, paint, water filter/softener, water heater, AC, furnace, and dual pane windows/sliders throughout a majority of the home. Relax and read a book in the back sunroom on cool or hot days. Enjoy an open view from the front of the home along with peace and quiet in your private backyard with its own view to the North. Entertain at multiple restaurants and golf courses within walking distance in the community. Come see what this home and unique community have to offer today!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306141413
$358,000
1248
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Beautiful renovated 2 bed 2 bath home Located in a highly desirable neighborhood with resort style living, Palomar Estates West is a 55 plus community centrally located near shopping and dining on the border of San Marcos and Carlsbad. This home features a wonderful open floor plan, a center island, shaker cabinets, quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, and a single basin stainless steel sink, updated bathrooms, vinyl plank flooring, new dual-pane windows, vaulted ceiling in the living room, kitchen, and dinning room gives you an even more spacious feel to the home. No detail has been forgotten. 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#: 306140279
$379,500
1600
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Immaculate BRAND NEW HOME with BEAUTIFUL UPGRADES throughout! This large 3 bedroom, 2 full bathroom is gorgeous! You will love the gourmet kitchen with HUGE walk-in pantry, granite countertops, BRAND NEW stainless steel appliances and more! The primary bedroom is at one end of the house offering lots of privacy and a spa-like master bath with soaking tub, dual sink vanity, and large shower. There are two more bedrooms and another bathroom at opposite end of home. This is a must see stunner in an active adult community with fun activities, swimming pool, tennis courts and more! Call Now! Serial FLE220CA22-41013A/B
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306140604
$1,629,888
3175
sqft
3
Baths
4
Beds
Here is your opportunity to own a spacious family home in the highly sought after community of Old Creek Ranch. Conveniently located on a quiet street across from open space, this gently used 4 bedroom, 3 bath home is HEAVILY upgraded from top to bottom and meticulously maintained by it's original owners. Beautifully landscaped front and backyard with great curb appeal. Upon entry, you will be greeted by soaring ceilings and large windows in the sun-filled formal living room. If open concept is what you desire then this floorplan is perfect for you. The sophisticated Kitchen and airy family room combo is an entertainer's dream. There is one full bedroom (Currently used as an office) and bath downstairs along with a home gym that could also be used for a 5th bedroom or playroom. New carpet recently installed along with fresh updates makes this property feel like new. Once upstairs, you will be greeted by a bright and spacious den, 2 generous guest bedrooms, a full bathroom and an awe-inspiring master suite. The garage has high ceilings with full epoxy floors. Did I mention this property is on solar too? The list goes on...This property is a must see. Don't miss your opportunity.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240007339
$3,000
1027
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Great townhouse in excellent condition. located near Cal State SM, in a gated community with a tot lot, pool & spa. 2 Good sized bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms & an attached one car garage & 1 assigned parking space. Washer/Dryer included, in garage. Primary bathroom has a new tub. Primary Bedroom has a walk-in closet. Balcony. Close to shops, restaurants, freeways & hiking trails. All appliances included. Wood laminate flooring throughout. Blinds/Drapes/Shades on all windows. Small dog okay with $500 pet deposit.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240007181
$4,000
1080
sqft
1
Baths
3
Beds
Welcome to your new home! This beautiful ranch-style single-story property is conveniently situated in San Marcos, offering comfort and convenience in one package. Boasting 3 bedrooms and 1 bath, this charming home sits on a spacious 6,000 square foot lot, making it an ideal choice for families seeking the best school district or downsizing individuals. Step into the expansive backyard and unwind in your personal oasis lush artificial grass, fruitful trees, you can utilize your outdoor space to your heart's content. Located just a short stroll away from Sunset Park, Bradley Park, and the esteemed International Baccalaureate La Mirada Academy K-8 school, you'll appreciate the convenience of nearby amenities and recreational opportunities. Additionally, you'll find yourself in close proximity to a myriad of dining options, shopping destinations, Lake San Marcos, recreational activities, and major freeways, ensuring that you're never far from the action. Fill out application on site to be included in a walk. 4/27/24 Text Stephanie for link to application 760-518-8815
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240007135
$825,000
1177
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
If you're someone who appreciates the beauty of hiking and biking trails, enjoys lakeside strolls, and relishes mountainous views, then this home in the Woodwind community of Discovery Hills, San Marcos, is tailor-made for you. This charming home features 2 bedrooms with a bonus room and 2.5 bathrooms. The bonus room, designed as an open loft space, offers incredible versatility, easily transforming into a home office, media room, or guest quarters, perfectly adapting to your unique lifestyle needs. Appreciate the attention to detail in the updated kitchen, showcasing premium granite countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, and ambient cabinet lighting, making meal preparation a joyous experience. The downstairs half bath has been recently renovated, boasting a new vanity, fixtures, and fresh paint, adding a touch of modern elegance to the home. Enjoy cozy evenings by the fireplace in the living room, and stay comfortable year-round with central air conditioning. The community pool is perfect for sunny California days, and takes care of front yard maintenance, allowing you to relax and enjoy your home to the fullest. Attached 2-car garage with Electric Charger added for your convenience. Close Proximity to CSUSM, Kaiser Permanente, grocery stores, restaurants, and more makes daily life convenient and enjoyable. Easy access to HWY 15, Hwy 78 & I-5.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306137860
$1,895,000
3894
sqft
4
Baths
6
Beds
Set on a sprawling 2+ acre lot in Coronado Hills, this custom-built estate has stunning panoramic mountain and peek ocean views. With expansive rooms, the layout offers versatility. The gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, an induction stove, double oven, copper sink, and eat-in bar & breakfast nook. Acacia hardwood flooring flows throughout the living areas. The main level features a bedroom, full bath, and optional sixth bedroom currently set up as an office. There is a bonus room with potential to be used as a wine cellar, storage, or an additional walk-in pantry. The primary suite includes an expansive wraparound deck. The landscaped yard with spa & waterfall also has potential room to add a pool. The three-car garage has an attached workshop. The property also includes a detached, unfinished 800 sqft ADU, previously used as a two-bedroom guest house, which offers additional possibilities for rental income or multigenerational living. This property boasts a mature fruit & nut orchard with newly upgraded smart irrigation system. Private electric gate, owned solar, Tesla EV charger, Starlink, and RV or boat parking are some of the many upgrades at this exceptional San Marcos home.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306138316
$849,000
1204
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
This stunning 2 bedroom + den condo has a 180-degree unobstructed and panoramic view of all of Lake San Marcos and the lush green rolling mountains with snowcapped mountains during the winters in the distance. The home has been meticulously maintained over the years featuring high end laminate flooring, high-quality carpet in bedrooms, a renovated primary bathroom with walk-in shower and spacious living spaces with 9 ft ceilings. The large kitchen features plenty of storage, with stainless-steel appliances and a cozy breakfast nook with stunning natural light. You will also enjoy the spacious primary bedroom with an on-suite bathroom, but it will be the sunrises from the bedroom that will take your breath away. No stairs or steps once you're inside your unit! Unit includes a 2-car detached garage space. The HOA includes a ton of amenities including access to all Lake San Marcos amenities - including multiple pools, pickleball/tennis courts, Lake San Marcos activities (boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, etc.). Also includes 24-hour security patrol.
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