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#: 306043307
$650,000
1051
sqft
3.5
Baths
2
Beds
Great Investment Opportunity - Gorgeous townhome in the gated community of Corte Bella close to CSU San Marcos. Quiet enjoyment surrounds this beautiful home. The entry level features access to the attached two car garage. The second level is an open concept floor plan that allows the living room, dining area and kitchen to flow seamlessly together with a balcony that invites the outdoor world inside. Corte Bella is an FHA/VA approved, premier gated community that offers its residents elevated lifestyle amenities including a sparkling pool and spa, fitness center, playground, outdoor BBQ cooking and dining area, and a recreation center. Close to shopping, dining, freeway, Sprinter, CSU San Marcos, and Palomar College. To see it is to love it!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240008975
$659,000
1027
sqft
2
Baths
2
Beds
Introducing a pristine top-floor condo nestled within the sought-after Campana at Rancho Coronado gated community. This move-in ready gem boasts a meticulously renovated kitchen as its centerpiece, adorned with exquisite new quartz countertops and backsplash. Revel in the fresh ambiance accentuated by custom paint, crown molding, and the convenience of central AC. Newly installed ceiling fans and a gas hot water heater enhance comfort, while built-in stereo surround sound adds a touch of luxury. Experience the airy openness of the residence with vaulted ceilings and ample windows bathing every corner in natural light. Entertain effortlessly in the seamlessly integrated kitchen, featuring recessed lighting, modern appliances including a newer refrigerator, and a welcoming breakfast counter opening to the living area. A cozy nook awaits at the top of the stairs, perfect for a home office or relaxation space. Step outside onto the private balcony, an ideal spot to unwind. Retreat to the spacious primary suite boasting a walk-in closet and a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Complete privacy is ensured with bedrooms situated on opposite sides of the expansive great room. Convenience is key with the washer and dryer conveniently located in the attached one-car garage, complete with ample storage shelving for seamless daily living. Enjoy the community's exceptional amenities including a sparkling pool, spa, recreation area, and tot lot. Perfectly situated, this home offers proximity to shopping, dining, parks, esteemed schools, and major transportation routes.
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306154741
$1,299,000
1992
sqft
3.5
Baths
3
Beds
Welcome to this stunning, remodeled 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in the coveted San Elijo Hills community. Boasting a spacious 1,992 sq ft of living space, this home offers an inviting open floor plan that seamlessly blends modern elegance with functional design. The heart of the home is its gorgeous kitchen, thoughtfully upgraded with top-of-the-line finishes and appliances, making it a chefs dream. Upstairs, a versatile loft area awaits, promising endless possibilities for a home office, sitting area, or conversion into another room. Step outside to discover an entertainers paradise in your backyard, featuring a meticulously landscaped oasis complete with lush turf, elegant pavers, and a tranquil ambiance perfect for hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet moments of relaxation. The upgraded fireplace in the living room adds a cozy touch, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings with family and friends. Experience the comfort of modern amenities throughout, including a newly installed HVAC system and water heater, ensuring year-round comfort and energy efficiency. Custom blinds adorn all bedrooms, offering privacy and style, while ceiling fans and light fixtures elevate the aesthetic appeal of every room. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac and the convenience of low HOA fees. Enjoy the luxury of living within walking distance to top-rated schools, downtown shopping, and parks, along with access to scenic hiking trails that wind through the picturesque landscape. With over $60,000 invested in upgrades, this move-in-ready home truly stands out as a gem in San
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 306161394
$675,000
1279
sqft
3.5
Baths
2
Beds
Welcome to the beautifully manicured gated community of Campana at Rancho Coronado. This light and bright 2 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom, 1,279 sq. ft. townhome features an attached one-car garage & assigned parking space. Plenty of windows flood the open floorplan living room, dining room and kitchen with natural light. The additional barstool seating off the kitchen counter make the space perfect for entertaining. Off of the open living area is a sweeping decked patio surrounded by rolling hills and singing birds for extended outdoor living. Recent upgrades include beautiful lighting, new vinyl plank flooring, plush, high-end carpet and upgraded kitchen appliances with a gas range. Upstairs, the spacious primary suite has tall ceilings, a walk-in closet, an ensuite bathroom with dual sinks, large soaking tub, shower and a private room for the toilet. The second bedroom has its own full ensuite bathroom with bathtub, shower and a long extended closet. Between the two suites, the loft area is perfect for a home office or reading nook. A full sized washer, dryer and extra fridge are in the oversized one car garage. Community amenities include a large sparkling pool, spa, playground and recreation area. This home is 11 miles from the beach and minutes away from walking trails, cozy coffee shops, dining, parks, shopping, and schools. Contact us for a private showing and make this beautiful home your own!
San Marcos, CA 92078
MLS#: 240009361
$3,800
1515
sqft
3
Baths
3
Beds
Available June 1st. Wonderful 3 bedroom townhome in Morgan's Corner, in the heart of the San Elijo Hills Village. With a 2-car attached garage and 1st-floor kitchen, dining, living room, laundry, and powder room, this desirable open concept, end unit, comes fully equipped with all appliances including a newer washer & dryer. Enjoy the convenience of having tiles on the ground floor and a lovely built-in entertainment center matching the kitchen white cabinetry. On the 2nd floor you'll find 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and on the 3rd floor a spacious and charming loft with wood floors and beautiful views of the Hills! Listed as a bedroom this loft could be used as an office or as a bonus room. Morgan's corner features a fantastic community pool & spa and offers a city lifestyle at your door step! Restaurants, coffee shops, award winning elementary and middle school, parks, trails, dog park, BBQ, sports fields to name a few of the numerous offerings of this community! Photos available per request.
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.
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#: 306079401
$1,500,000
3139
sqft
3
Baths
4
Beds
SPACIOUS SAN ELIJO HILLS HOME WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST LOTS IN THE SAGEWOOD COMMUNITY! Long private driveway and HUGE lot - nearly 10,000 SF - with canyon/greenbelt views and no neighbors behind! Welcome home to this 4 bedroom + 2 optional bedrooms (easy conversion to 6 bedrooms!), 3 full bath residence situated in the heart of San Elijo Hills. The 2 optional bedrooms can be used as offices, teen/bonus rooms or game/media rooms. Open floor plan concept with large kitchen offering granite counters, walk-in pantry, center island and breakfast nook + full bedroom and bath on the first floor. Family room and primary bedroom fireplaces, bedroom view deck, soaring high ceilings and much more! This home boasts over 3,100 ESF, 3 car tandem garage, and an oversized very private view backyard on the green belt, with no rear facing neighbors. Zoned for San Marcos High School. Home has original features and ready for your own touch and improvements. ***** THE SAN ELIJO HILLS COMMUNITY *** Great location, walk to parks, trails, town center and stores! Also nearby are desirable schools (Middle & Elementary), ballparks, soccer field, picnic tables, bbq, playgrounds, dog park, community center...and all are within walking distance! Enjoy the shops and eateries along with the 18 miles of trails & 19 acre park, 1000 acres of open space. Seller to select services. Room dimensions & sq footage are approximate, per builder & assessor's record. Mello-roos is estimated.
San Marcos, CA 92078+7992
MLS#: NDP2403664
$1,395,000
2326
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Depending on GPS, use 1433 River Crest Rd. Welcome to the desirable San Elijo Hills community where you will find this rare single-level home in the Sagewood neighborhood. Conveniently located within walking distance to top-rated San Elijo Elementary and Middle Schools for a lifestyle of ease with a town center of eateries, shops, sports fields, dog parks, and access to miles of trails throughout the area. Windows embrace the flowing floorplan permeating your space with natural light. The primary suite's picturesque southwest views mood up your Monday mornings. Enjoy the retreat-like bathroom with dual vanity, soaking tub, glass enclosed shower, and walk-in closet. The home boasts open-concept living with relaxing great room and two additional sitting areas that could easily convert to a 4th bedroom or office. A wide hallway floored by 18" tiles is enriched by a formal dining room wrapping into an expansive kitchen. Your foodie and chef will appreciate ample cabinetry and counter space with eat-in entertainment areas. The backyard invites family & friends with built-in barbecue and sunset drenched views. Access the greenbelt trails from your private backyard gate for adventurous hikes.
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