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#: 306137860
$1,895,000
3894
sqft
4
Baths
6
Beds
Open house 4/28 has been cancelled. 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#: 240009475
$1,849,000
3722
sqft
4.5
Baths
5
Beds
Perched on a serene cul-de-sac in the gated community of Azure, this upscale home offers stunning views overlooking mountains to ocean, creating a breathtaking backdrop for daily life. Truly your own private piece of paradise situated on a .24 acre lot showcasing the ultimate backyard with pool, swim-up bar, spa, and everything you need for relaxing and entertaining. Highlights include picturesque views throughout a unique split level floor plan, pre-paid leased solar, 3 car garage with electric car charger, and more!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306152906
$1,799,000
3556
sqft
4
Baths
4
Beds
Step into the epitome of suburban charm and modern luxury in the heart of San Elijo Hills. Nestled in the prestigious Mahogany development at Old Creek Ranch, this stunning home is waiting for its next discerning owner. With unmatched comfort, sophistication, and a lifestyle that's simply unbeatable, this is where your dreams come true. The gourmet kitchen is the heart of this exquisite home, featuring elegant granite countertops, high-end stainless steel appliances, and a beautiful island illuminated by stylish pendant lighting perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying family meals. The cozy family room with a warm fireplace is ideal for relaxation and heartfelt conversations. The dining room with a vaulted ceiling is perfect for formal meals and special celebrations. The master suite is a spacious sanctuary with serene views of the greenbelt and a versatile en suite room that can be transformed into a home office, nursery, or private escape. The luxurious master bath with a Jacuzzi tub offers a private spa experience to unwind after a long day. Step outside to beautifully landscaped yards that create a private oasis for outdoor entertainment or quiet nights under the stars. Owned solar panels make this home eco-friendly without compromising on luxury. Not only is this home stunning inside and out, but it's also conveniently located near hiking trails, playgrounds, top-tier schools, shopping destinations, parks, and the breathtaking California coastline offering a lifestyle full of convenience and adventure. Welcome to a home that exceeds expectations, offering a rich
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
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306129361
$1,699,000
2957
sqft
3
Baths
5
Beds
Step into this Tuscany-inspired home and enjoy panoramic ocean and sunset views every day! Located on a cul-de-sac in the Crestview neighborhood of San Elijo Hills, this meticulously updated residence offers paid solar, a Tesla charger, a private courtyard entry, and separate 2 & 1-car garages! With a perfect layout featuring a first-floor bed/bath, a kitchen facing the views, separate formal dining and living areas, and a master suite with retreat/loft/office/exercise space, every detail caters to comfort and elegance. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with French doors leading to a covered patio with low-maintenance landscaping, a built-in gas firepit, and jacuzzian ideal setting for soaking in the endless horizons and vibrant sunsets. With top-rated schools, nearby trails, parks, and amenities, this is the epitome of Southern California living.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306155953
$1,689,900
3401
sqft
3
Baths
5
Beds
Welcome home to your dream oasis in the prestigious gated community of Promontory Ridge. Nestled within the sought-after San Elijo Hills, this stunning home boasts a captivating vine-covered facade that adds an enchanting touch to its curb appeal. Inside, discover 3,400sf illuminated by natural light, thanks to its soaring ceilings that create an airy and spacious ambiance throughout. With 4 bedrooms, including a full downstairs guest room, this home offers both luxury and practicality. Entertainment is effortless with two lofts providing versatile spaces for relaxation or office spaces plus an oversized upstairs den currently set up as a home theater with a fun diner style booth. Outside, escape to your own private paradise in the tranquil yard featuring a refreshing pool and spa, complete with cascading waterfall for added serenity and low maintenance artificial turf. The built-in outdoor BBQ kitchen island with fridge and bar seating is perfect for hosting poolside gatherings, with custom pavers and masonry throughout. Indoors, the home is adorned with beautiful interior upgrades, including a granite kitchen and crown molding. Retreat to the luxurious master suite, where a spa-like oasis awaits with a cozy retreat area, providing the perfect sanctuary to unwind after a long day. Experience the epitome of California living in this meticulously crafted home, ready for it's new owner. Don't miss your chance to call this sanctuary yours and start living the life you've always dreamed of in Promontory Ridge. Ask about an ADDITIONAL $7,000 home buyer credit available on this h
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306140604
$1,629,888
3175
sqft
3
Baths
4
Beds
MOTIVATED SELLER! 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. Seller will entertain possible credit for rate buy down with the right offer!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306161674
$1,625,800
3210
sqft
4
Baths
5
Beds
Outdoor entertainment at its finest or a sanctuary for relaxation. This captivating backyard oasis boasts a built-in BBQ, firepit, putting green, pool, and spa, all complemented by breathtaking mountain views. Surround yourself with nature on nearby hiking trails, or enjoy the fruits of your own backyard, including peach, pomegranate, apricot, lemon, and orange trees. Nestled at the end of a tranquil cul-de-sac on a rare, oversized lot that offers ample privacy and a lengthy driveway. Inside, discover elegance and functionality in this 5 bed/ 4 bath home with the convenience of a first-floor bedroom and full bath. Enjoy durable hardwood floors throughout along with plantation shutters. The gourmet kitchen features KitchenAid stainless steel appliances, including a 5-burner range, double oven, wine cooler and farmhouse white porcelain sink. Enriched with Brazilian quartzite countertops and white cabinets makes it as beautiful as it is functional. Relax with ease in the spacious family room with a cozy fireplace, or host formal dinners in the private dining room overlooking the lush backyard. The high ceiling formal living room adds grandeur to the space which leads upstairs to the four additional bedrooms. The master bath boasts travertine floors and tile countertops, with a master balcony offering sweeping mountain views. Step outside from another bedroom onto a fresh balcony or enjoy the comfort of an ensuite full bath in yet another. Completing the upstairs is an additional bedroom, full bath, and a convenient laundry room. This home is as practical as it is exquisite wit
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008901
$1,598,000
1876
sqft
2
Baths
4
Beds
Fully remodeled dream home with stunning west-facing views of The Links Golf Course in Lake San Marcos with NO HOA! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence has undergone an extensive top-to-bottom renovation, including the addition of a detached studio in the backyard—an ideal space for a home office, guest suite, or serene retreat. Step into the heart of the home and enjoy the open concept living space with a chef's kitchen featuring white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, a standalone island complete with a wine fridge, large pantry, an oversized deep kitchen sink, designer backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and custom lighting. Both bathrooms have gone through a complete make over including new vanities with quartz counters, a large shower in the primary with floor to ceiling tile and a spacious renovated guest bath with a bathtub. Throughout the home, enjoy the new luxury vinyl plank flooring, complemented by upgraded baseboards and trim, dual-pane vinyl windows, overhead can lighting, custom solar shades, a whole house fan, and smart thermostat AC. Plus, benefit from solar panels with a new electrical panel for energy efficiency. The garage has been upgraded with professional epoxy flooring, lined with new storage cabinets, and EV ready with dedicated 220V wiring. Outside, the newly fenced front and back yards have been professional landscaped with drought resistant plants complete with drip line irrigation, exterior lighting, an extended patio area perfect for outdoor dining, raised planter beds, and a low-maintenance turf sitting area.
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