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#: 306154180
$998,500
2000
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Step into your dream home in a gated San Marcos community! As you open the door, a sense of warmth and possibility envelops you. Step into the cozy foyer, leading into a spacious living area perfect for making memories. With three bedrooms conveniently located downstairs, privacy and comfort are at the forefront of this home's design. As you explore further, you'll find a large and inviting loft upstairs, currently being used as a 4th bedroom, or can be a large office. Offering endless possibilities for customization. Enjoy the modern convenience of partial updates throughout while still having room for your personal touch. Located on a corner lot, relish the tranquility and privacy this home offers, with easy access to the 78 and nearby amenities. When you're ready to venture out, indulge in resort-style living in the Williamsburg community, complete with a gated entrance, walking trails, community pool, clubhouse, playground, dog park, and BBQ area.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306148867
$1,155,000
1475
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
This is the one you've been waiting for. Tee off on the 18th Hole of The Links At The Lake house championship golf course. Or stop by the 19th hole at the clubhouse & Grill restaurant! Tastefully remodeled single story San Marcos home with amazing golf course views!The two-car garage is large and offers lots of storage. Start enjoy the Lake San Marcos community with lodge membership, you'll have access to tons activities & tennis courts, pickle ball courts, pools, discounts at amazing restaurants and more! Completely remastered from top to bottom. New custom kitchen with beautiful quartz counter tops, and custom cabinetry, new floors, stainless steel appliances. Nice open floor plan w/ the living room positioned to received tons of natural light! Bathrooms have new modern tiled floors & showers, all new vanities, with a timeless look. New dual pane windows and so much more!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306152120
$889,000
1447
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
Beautiful home in the gorgeous gated and private Belmont neighborhood of San Elijo Hills! This 1447 square foot home features 3 bedrooms, and 2.5 baths with a bonus room for an office/den or convert to bedroom. This is a fully detached home, there are no shared walls with another property! The split-level layout allows for maximizing living space. This home features new LED recessed lighting throughout, new paint, luxury vinyl plank floors throughout the living space that was installed in the past 24 months, all stainless steel appliance suite in the kitchen, and a fully finished backyard space with concrete pad, gas fire pit and synthetic turf. The attached two-car garage has a custom storage area that is under the first split level so you can utilize every inch of the property. This home has a tankless water heater, central HVAC system (including AC), and fire sprinkler system. All appliances, including washer and dryer convey with sale. The Belmont community offers a pool and BBQ area with clubhouse, and a dog walking area that are just steps away. The San Elijo Hills neighborhood amenities include desirable schools, ballparks, soccer fields, picnic tables, BBQ areas, playgrounds, a dog park, a community center, and a pedestrian-friendly town center a short one-mile down the hill. Low HOA Fees; Belmont $180.00 Per Month, San Elijo Hills $90 Per Month
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008282
$334,900
1298
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
This beautifully remodeled home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, nestled in a serene 55-plus community. The open floor plan seamlessly connects living spaces, enhancing the flow and accessibility of the home. Abundant natural light floods the space through thoughtfully placed windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The primary bathroom is especially luxurious, equipped with separate sinks that provide convenience and elegance. This property offers the perfect blend of comfort and modern living in a peaceful setting. Low Space rent
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306146809
$350,000
1440
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Welcome to Palomar Estates West, a beautiful 55+ 5 star community with many amenities for residents. This 2 bedroom, 2 bath home sits high on a hill with a large back porch to sit and enjoy the sunsets and cool ocean breezes. Large living room and a family room that makes a great office. Large kitchen with lots of cabinets and breakfast bar. Dual pane windows stainless steel appliances and updated counters. Master bedroom features a walk in closet and walk in jacuzzi tub in the master bathroom. Rent controlled community and no property taxes on this home, just a small annual registration fee. Low monthly space rent of $763. Very clean and move in ready! Palomar Estates West is a 55+ rent controlled community with many amenities including a beautiful clubhouse, pool, spa, gym, putting green, pickleball courts, and tennis courts. Close to dining and shopping and a short drive to beaches.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306152302
$1,299,000
2349
sqft
3
Baths
4
Beds
Stunning, turn-key 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home nestled in the highly desirable neighborhood of Discovery Hills! This gorgeous home boasts spectacular panoramic VIEWS and a prime location with NO HOA, miles of hiking trails and 3 nearby lakes. Inside youll find a meticulously remodeled interior featuring 20-foot ceilings with large windows providing abundant natural light, 2349 square feet of living space and tons of updates including engineered wood flooring throughout, custom iron stair rail, plantation shutters and completely remodeled bathrooms and laundry, with contemporary tile and cabinetry. The bright, open concept kitchen includes granite countertops, large center island with seating, stainless steel appliances, wine fridge and extra-large windows to take in the view. Plus, enjoy a spacious living area off the kitchen, with a cozy fireplace. This home is ideal for entertaining! An additional main level living area and dining room provide many places to relax. Downstairs you will also find a convenient bedroom with full bathroom and step-in shower, ideal for guests, office or multigenerational living. Upstairs are 3 additional, spacious bedrooms and 2 full baths. The light and bright primary bedroom features a fireplace, ensuite bathroom with walk-in closet and a view balcony, which has been newly rebuilt with durable TimberTech planks. Outside, the lush backyard opens to a beautiful canyon, providing unobstructed sweeping views. Unwind, taking in the sunset, relaxing by the built-in fire pit and turf yard with mature landscaping. The wide side yard with pergola, offe
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240007908
$1,895,000
3600
sqft
3.5
Baths
4
Beds
Perched atop the San Marcos hills, this custom-designed residence offers unparalleled panoramic views spanning from the city lights of Northern San Diego to the tranquil expanse of the ocean. Beyond its private gated entry, guests are greeted by magnificent front doors opening into a grand foyer showcasing the westerly views. The home boasts luxurious travertine flooring on the lower level, complemented by a striking custom walnut staircase adorned with intricate purple inlay. Upstairs you’ll discover 3 large bedrooms, all adorned with the same elegant walnut flooring. Entertain guests in the expansive living room, complete with a built-in bar, or retreat to the sizable theater room for a cinematic experience. Enjoy outdoor gatherings in the well-appointed kitchen, Additionally, the property features an attached 5-car garage equipped with a car lift, accommodating a total of 6 vehicles. Two detached garage spaces provide further storage or workshop possibilities, catering to the needs of car enthusiasts or hobbyists. Situated for convenience, the property provides easy access to major freeways including Hwy 78 and I-15, as well as proximity to Cal State San Marcos and Palomar Hospital. This home truly has it all!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306144737
$965,000
1296
sqft
2
Baths
4
Beds
This stunning remodeled 4 bedroom, 2 full bathroom home offers a light-filled, open floor plan, perfect for entertaining and everyday living. The brand new kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring gleaming quartz countertops, chic gold finishes, and a large island that provides ample prep space. Step outside to your private backyard featuring mature orange and lemon trees, your own personal oasis perfect for relaxing evenings under the California stars. Take in the breathtaking foothill views that offer a touch of tranquility, all within the convenience of San Marcos living. Located in the highly sought-after and highly-scored San Marcos school district. La Costa Meadows, San Elijo Middle, San Marcos High. Golf enthusiasts will love the proximity to world-class courses, while everyone will enjoy easy access to Lake San Marcos, shops, restaurants, and all the amenities this vibrant upcoming city has to offer. Plus, you're just a short drive from the beach for those perfect SoCal days. No HOA or Mello Roos! Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of paradise! Schedule a showing today!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240007723
$6,495
3449
sqft
5
Baths
5
Beds
Nestled within the prestigious gated community of Promontory Ridge, situated in the coveted San Elijo Hills area, this executive home epitomizes luxury living. Offering a spacious layout and equipped with solar system, residence features 5 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms, gifting you an ample space for both comfort and entertainment. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the grandeur of high ceilings and expansive windows that flood the interior with natural light, creating an inviting ambiance throughout. The heart of the home centers around a gourmet kitchen adorned with a generous island, perfect for culinary endeavors and social gatherings alike. Convenience is paramount, with one bedroom conveniently located on the ground floor, alongside a private office, laundry room, and garage entrance, providing seamless accessibility and functionality. The office exudes sophistication with its arched windows and shutters, offering an inspiring space for work or study. Ascend the staircase to discover the upstairs sanctuary, where the primary suite awaits. Double doors open to reveal an oasis of relaxation, complete with an en-suite bathroom and a sprawling walk-in closet upgraded with built-in organizers, ensuring both luxury and practicality. Unwind in the indulgent tub or rejuvenate in the separate shower, indulging in a spa-like experience within the comfort of home. Outside, the private backyard beckons for outdoor enjoyment, providing a serene retreat to bask in the California sunshine or entertain guests amidst lush landscaping and tranquil surroundings.
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