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#: 306118054
$4,300,000
3632
sqft
4
Baths
5
Beds
HELICOPTER VIEWS! Light and bright with magnificent 360 degree views of North San Diego county city lights all the way to the ocean! The ranch style home sits amid a unique array of possibilities. Very private, gated entry, the (two parcels) 28+ acres sits between San Marcos and Escondido. Close to the city, convenient to freeways between Hwy 78 (East and West) & I-15 (North and South), Cal State San Marcos and Palomar Hospital. Entertain and relax in the large living/dining/game rooms. Enjoy a game of tennis on the lighted full size court or practice golf on the putting green. The property could accommodate parties, weddings, hobbies and more. Beautiful sunset views along with relaxing peace and quiet in this oasis. Convenient location in the surrounding corridor of North San Diego county. Do you need lots of parking? Check out the large multi-roll-up door building with separate covered boat or RV storage. Storage for 20+ vehicles with a separate work shop. Think of the possibilities for business or hobby use! Several additional buildings could accommodate overnight guests. Buyer to verify all prior to COE. Note: There are two parcels. APN: 2203002000 (576 Camino De La Cima, San Marcos, CA 92078) (17.6 acres) APN: 222-400-0300 (La Moree Rd., Escondido, CA 92078 (10.8 acres)
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306143470
$2,570,000
3602
sqft
4.5
Baths
4
Beds
: : Custom Vineyard Estate in the coveted Lake San Marcos community, and minutes to Carlsbad. Fully equipped ~1/2 acre estate catering the needs of nearly every palette features custom stonework and tile throughout the exterior and interior; a design that places this home in a class of its own. Located on a quiet cul-de-sac, yet walking distance to Lake San Marcos, Links Golf Course, LSM Beach & Tennis Club, Amalfi Italian restaurants, dockside dining, The Lakehouse Resort, fishing, kayaking/canoeing, boating, South Lake and Discovery Lake, hiking/biking trails, parks, vibrant shopping and dining, and so much more. : : Step into a world of timeless charm and exquisite elegance with this stunning, Italian-inspired villa. Designed with intention, this magnificent residence has 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, and robust amenities including a mature producing vineyard graced with Sangiovese grapes with all wine-making equipment on site, a temperature controlled 2500 bottle wine cellar, a home theatre and game room, outdoor kitchen with custom, coal-fired pizza oven, outdoor televisions and fire pits, endless swimming pool, organic farm, hydroponic greenhouse, chicken coop, detached storage shed, and major solar system. Dine alfresco or sip morning coffee from the front patio, featuring views of the vineyard and a skylight providing sun kissed ambient lighting. Enjoy the organic food harvested on the property including the flourishing orange, lemon, fig, and pomegranate trees and artichokes, and a chickens for fresh eggs. Indoors, the magic continues with a home theatre adorned wi
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306136284
$2,125,000
3372
sqft
4
Baths
3
Beds
Welcome to luxurious single-story living here in the gated community of Varadero, San Marcos gem. If you have been searching for a home full of upgrades that is truly turnkey, look no more. Pride of ownership abounds! First you will be greeted by a beautifully landscaped front yard, with no steps inside and out. Next, enter through the wide foyer, opening to a lovely, spacious living room. Soaring 10-foot ceilings throughout the home. The heart of the home is the open-concept gourmet kitchen, complete with 7-burner gas stove, sleek countertops, plenty of storage space, reverse osmosis drinking water system, and walk-in pantry. The kitchen seamlessly connects to the family room, creating an inviting space for gatherings and everyday living. Step outside to the backyard oasis, where you'll find a perfectly landscaped yard, with two avocado trees, one lemon tree, and a gas firepit, creating a perfect place to unwind and enjoy stunning sunsets with an ocean view. Pavers line the side of the yard. Additional features of this residence include beautiful travertine flooring, with inlaid design; three fireplaces; 2-zone HVAC system; retractable patio awning; plantation shutters; built-in surround-sound speakers; 220 50-AMP car charger in the 3-car tandem garage, complete with stylish built-in cabinetry, water softener, central vacuum, and tankless water heater. You will love the huge primary bedroom and ensuite bathroom, which includes dual showerheads, two closets, and two rare separate water closets! Down the hallway, youll be greeted by a den/optional 4th bedroom, which could al
SAN MARCOS, CA 92078
MLS#: 230020861
$1,900,000
1058
sqft
1
Baths
3
Beds
VALUE IN THE LAND, BUILDING CODE R1-10 ONE HOUSE FOR EVERY 10 SQF. TOWHOME PROJECT FEW HOUSES DOWN THE STREET FROM THE SUBJECT IS ALMOST COMLPETED. PROPERTY IS ALL FENCED , AND SHOWS WITH AN ACCEPTED OFFER ONLY, PHOTOS SHOWS THE GEOGRAPHICS OF THE LAND. BUYERS TO DO THEIR OWN INVESTIGATIONS WITH THE CITY OF SAN MARCOS REGARDING THE BUILT-ABILITY OF THE LAND. PLEASE C.L.A WITH ANY QUESTIONS.
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#: NDP2402717
$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#: 240007908
$1,895,000
3600
sqft
3.5
Baths
4
Beds
Set atop the hills overlooking San Marcos with gorgeous 360-degree views of North San Diego city lights to the ocean! This custom-designed home sits amid an array of possibilities. The private gated entry brings you to the stunning front doors and into the foyer and the breathtaking views to the west. This home has been meticulously designed and maintained, with beautiful travertine floors downstairs and a truly magnificent custom-designed walnut staircase with purple inlay, the walnut floors continue upstairs to bring you to the extra large bedrooms. Close to the city, convenient to freeways between Hwy 78 (East and West) & I-15 (North and South), Cal State San Marcos and Palomar Hospital. Entertain and relax in the open living room with built-in bar, or enjoy a movie in the large theater room. Enjoy entertaining in the outdoor kitchen with beautiful sunset views and the relaxing peace and quiet of this oasis. Convenient location to the surrounding corridor of North San Diego County. Do you need lots of parking? Check out the extra large attached 5-car garage with car lift and potential for 6 total cars attached for you car enthusiasts, and 2 additional detached garage spaces for cars, boats, or turn it into a workshop. Think of the possibilities for business or hobby use!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306133292
$1,774,900
3200
sqft
4.5
Baths
4
Beds
WELCOME TO THIS STUNNING VIEW HOME NESTLED IN THE DESIRABLE GATED COMMUNITY OF SAVERNE, offering loads of upgrades and amazing panoramic views. Step inside to discover a modern and inviting atmosphere, with high ceilings and an abundance of natural light creating a bright and open feel. Great floor plan with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, (including 1 bedroom + 1.5 baths on 1st level), large second floor loft w/ balcony plus tech center, and office/den plus hobby room on first floor. The family room, with high ceilings, large windows showcasing the panoramic views, and beautiful fireplace, opens to the kitchen, creating a "great room" feel. The exquisite kitchen is an entertainer's dream, with quartz counters, huge center island with beverage/ice station, stainless steel appliances including double ovens, coffee bar station, and tons of cabinet space (all cabinets and pantry have pull out shelving!). Beautiful wood flooring adds warmth throughout the 1st floor, while a wrought iron staircase and huge windows showcasing the views add architectural interest. Spacious primary bedroom has view balcony, large en suite bathroom and dual walk-in closets. Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the private back yard with covered patio, fire pit area, grass yard and a myriad of fruit trees: Lemon, lime, navel orange, blood orange, tangerine, peach, strawberry guava and pineapple guava. 25 OWNED SOLAR panels for low to no electric bills! More features include custom lighting throughout, ceiling fans in all bedrooms, retractable screens at front door and primary bedroom patio, AC, laundry room wi
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306131264
$1,749,900
3344
sqft
5.5
Baths
5
Beds
Beautiful cul-de-sac home with great yard in gated community! Enjoy sunset ocean views! From the turret entry with spiral staircase to the bright front living room, this 5 bedroom/4.5 bath San Elijo Hills home is warm and inviting and has a popular floor plan. The chef's kitchen has granite counters with a large center island, bright breakfast nook and stainless steel appliances. The generous family room includes a built-in entertainment area with surround sound speakers in the ceiling. It is set up for multi-generational living with a convenient downstairs bedroom with ensuite bathroom as well as a separate guest powder room. (1.5 bathrooms downstairs.) There are four bedrooms upstairs and two of the secondary bedrooms (one is extra large with a nook) access a shared bathroom and theres also a hallway bathroom near the fourth upstairs bedroom. The large primary bedroom has a retreat and fireplace, dual closets, and a luxurious bathroom with two walk-in closets, a large shower and soaking tub. Outside, the backyard is a quiet sanctuary with a patio, a built-in fire-pit, and a grass lawn creating a perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. The property also boasts views toward downtown. This well-maintained home has OWNED Tesla storage and ample garage space with a 3 car tandem garage equipped with racks. The property also features plantation shutters, dual A/C and a downstairs laundry room. Brand new Milgard windows are on order and will be installed soon! This home is ideally situated in the highly desirable gated Saverne community on a quiet, double cul-de-sac street with o
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