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#: 240008737
$1,300,000
2356
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
Believe this…YOU...Living on the golf course, enjoying the majestic Cerro de Las Posas mountain views and just a stroll down to the Links at Lakehouse Clubhouse & Beautiful San Marcos Lake and Marina with its nice restaurants and promenade. This single story home has a large covered brick patio overlooking Hole # 9 surrounded by low maintenance landscaping with fruit trees. The gorgeous interior has new paint and carpet with tiled foyer, kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room. There are shutters throughout the home, fireplace in the Living room, hide-a-way bar just off the dining room and newer kitchen appliances including Samsung Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer, a GE Oven Range & Dishwasher. Relax after a hard day of Golf in your Hot Tub located just off the Master bedroom with access provided by your private sliding door. Last but not least the home includes rain gutters and a strolling hardscape that completely surrounds the home. Lake San Marcos has a Community Association which owners can join to get access to some of the ammenities the community has to offer like pools, tennis, pickle ball, fishing, boats, etc.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306151827
$445,000
1560
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Remarkable newly renovated home with luxury finishes and modern touch. Enjoy the ocean breeze home in the exclusive Palomar Estates East 55+ community. No property taxes. Designed with elegant features, open layout and numerous new dual pane windows let you enjoy the mountains view. New Roof, brand new kitchen with soft-close drawers, quartz countertops, kitchen island, upgraded new Stainless Steel appliances including Refrigerator and walk-in pantry. New luxury vinyl flooring throughout the home, recessed lighting, drywall interior, custom painted inside and outside. The primary suite has its own separate access to the sunroom as wells as a high-end custom tiled shower, all new vanities, fixtures, and walk-in closet. A large low maintenance backyard with fruit trees overlooking mountains and patio to enjoy the sun set and ocean breeze. 2 carport parking with extra guests parking on the side. Location right in front of the Golf court and BBQ area. Low space rent, no property taxes, rent control. Community pool/spa, tennis court, small golf course, exercise room, library, clubhouse, carwash and RV parking. Conveniently located close to all shops and restaurants. A Must See! Call for private showings.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008638
$1,393,000
3099
sqft
3.5
Baths
4
Beds
Welcome to this exquisite property that boasts numerous desirable attributes to cater to your modern, sophisticated lifestyle. The interior lives up to the highest expectations with a neutral color paint scheme providing an ideal backdrop for showcasing your personal style. The cozy fireplace creates a warm, inviting ambiance on cold evenings. The kitchen, equipped with all stainless steel appliances, is a culinary enthusiast's dream featuring a large island and great cabinet storage for all your cooking essentials. The primary bathroom offers spa-like comfort with double sinks, a separate tub, and shower for relaxing unwinding sessions. The main bedroom also includes a spacious walk-in closet, perfect for keeping your wardrobe organized. The home's thoughtful design extends to the outdoors as well, with a covered patio perfect for alfresco dining and entertaining. The property benefits from a fenced-in backyard, ensuring privacy and providing a secure. Discover what it feels like to live in a house that makes every day feel special.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008658
$625,000
1152
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Welcome to Lake San Marcos! Famous for its Natural Beauty, 18 hole golf course, Culinary Delights, Relaxed Fishing or just unwinding at the local spa. This single story patio home situated on a corner lot, features Large View Windows, a Flowing Open Floorplan which backs up to green belt space. Check out the ample sized Primary Ensuite complete with private dressing area. Multi-functional secondary bedroom - Den/study, office or guest room. Decorator colors adorn this wonderful living space. Move right in, or take the lead from our seller and make it your own. Its sure to not disappoint!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306153113
$1,549,900
2708
sqft
4
Baths
4
Beds
Welcome to your dream home in San Elijo Hills! This meticulously maintained 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence boasts a perfect blend of modern upgrades and thoughtful convenience. Nestled in the charming Luminara neighborhood, this move-in ready home offers the best in comfortable living. Upon entry, youll be greeted by a spacious layout that seamlessly connects the living spaces. The main level features a convenient first floor bedroom, ideal for guests or as an exercise room or home office, ensuring flexibility to suit your needs. The recently remodeled kitchen is gorgeous, showcasing stainless steel chef-grade appliances, including a Wolf range and custom built in refrigerator, a large kitchen island for culinary adventures, and custom cabinetry that provides ample storage. Ascend to the second floor to discover the expansive primary suite, a serene retreat with a beautiful en suite bath. Pamper yourself in the large soaking tub and enjoy the convenience of a generously sized walk-in closet. The home's eco-friendly features include owned solar panels rated at 6.615 kilowatts, ensuring energy efficiency and cost savings. Outside, the drought-tolerant landscaping enhances curb appeal while requiring minimal maintenance. Step into the backyard oasis, complete with a covered patio perfect for al fresco dining and a built-in grill for entertaining guests. Additional highlights include a loft space ideal for a playroom or media center, a 2-car garage, and a prime location close to top rated schools, trails, parks, and shopping. Don't miss this opportunity to own a turnkey home t
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008591
$10,800
5754
sqft
6
Baths
5
Beds
Experience living like you are on the top of the world with 180 degree panoramic mountain views and ocean in the rarely available gated community of the prestigious Estate of the San Elijo Hill! This elegant unfurnished 5754 SQ FT home perched on a cul-de-sac with southern views that can be enjoyed from almost every room. It features a 5 bedroom ensuite, including a guest suite with kitchenette and own entrance, plus a private office downstairs and a spacious loft and a study area for kids to hangout. Courtyard welcomes your guests at the entry. The great room showcases its views through glass wall that can disappear into the wall pocket to create quintessential indoor outdoor California living. Kitchen with high end appliances, butler & walk in pantry offers plenty of storage. Its large island opens to the great room and sunroom. Additional features: Solar, Tesla electrical outlet; water softener; wall mounted TV; sound system. Nearby scenic hiking trails at Double Peak park! See additional features in supplemental.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306149369
$350,000
1512
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
One of the best view lots in Palomar Estates West. Bring your contractor and your imagination and make this your forever home. Two Bedrooms and two full bathrooms with an open concept and amazing views. Nice area in the back to relax and watch the sunset. Bonus space with the sun room enclosed gives this home a much larger feel than the square footage. There is also a nice shed/workspace for other hobbies. Newer roof and owned solar. Palomar Estates West is a 55+ senior rent controlled community with lots of activities for residents including clubhouse, pool, spa, gym, putting green, pickle ball and tennis courts.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306150896
$469,000
1440
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Stunning home in highly desired Palomar Estates West. A three bedroom and two bath home is a unique find in this community. The living, dinning, and kitchen are joined in a wonderful open concept. The beautifully remodeled kitchen with has shaker cabinets, quartz counter tops, a large island, stainless steel appliances, a single basin stainless steel sink, and pendent lights. Dual-pane windows and sliding glass door will keep the home comfortable in the temperate San Marcos weather. Primary bedroom has a walk-in closet and an on-suite bathroom including a dual-vanity with shaker cabinets, quartz counter tops, a beautiful walk-in tile shower with dual shower heads, and tile floors. New plank vinyl flooring throughout the home. Fan lights in the living room, primary bedroom, and guest bedrooms. The large front porch allows to enjoy the views of the hills and the wonderful San Marcos climate. 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#: 306151305
$349,000
1020
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Gorgeous, remodeled home w/ panoramic views that can be enjoyed from the brand new deck and the Kitchen and living room, thanks to the open floorplan & big windows! Located in a beautiful, 55+, RENT CONTROLLED park, this home is walking distance to the beautiful pool, spa, clubhouse, guest parking & many activities & amenities that this popular community has to offer! The open floor plan with views from multiple windows will take your breath away! This home has been completely rebuilt; Beautiful remodeled Island Kitchen, new bathrooms, flooring, windows, recessed lighting, doors, fixtures, tankless water heater, & exterior siding are all new! Additional upgrades: Recoated roof, new electrical & new plumbing from the subfloor up! New furnace to be installed before close of escrow! Quartz counters throughout. Main Bathroom has a new custom step in shower! The exterior is very low maintenance. Enjoy the beautiful ambient setting with mature trees surrounding this property from the covered porch! This community has a clubhouse, a pool that is heated year round, jacuzzi, billiards, library, shuffle board & a dog park. Located near Costco, Walmart, Kohls, grocery stores, dining, public transportation, both the Palomar Hospital and new Kaiser hospital & medical offices, and more! Low space rent of $629.18 per month.
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