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#: 306125074
$1,550,000
2292
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
This stunning, custom built, lovingly maintained, 2292 sq ft, 3-bedroom 2 full bath home, built in 2000 is an irresistible treasure. City views, radiant sunlight, close proximity to Lake San Marcos, easy access to Discover Hills hiking, San Marcos high school district, in a sought after, tranquil, neighborhood, on a 0.39-acre lot. Soaring ceilings, open concept that provides an abundant of warm, natural sunlight. The entire home is spacious, serene and flows nicely. An elevated kitchen is accommodating to those cooking, also allows viewing and visiting with guests while entertaining. The primary suite is a serene retreat located at one end of the home with steam shower and spacious walk-in closet. Two generous sized bedrooms, with walk in closets, are at the other end of the home. Two car garage, on lower level, has ample space behind, 1700 sq feet, to build out, a 4th bedroom suite, ADU or workshop. A spacious flag stone patio with lemon and orange trees, established roses, trees, and plants throughout the property. The outdoor space is tranquil and private. Remarkable views with majestic sunsets. Central air and heat. Conveniently located close to shopping, freeways, restaurants and more.
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#: 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#: 306159370
$1,395,000
2326
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Depending on GPS, use 1433 River Crest Rd. Incredibly rare single-level home with a beautiful backyard hugging the serene canyon and greenspace within the cherished San Elijo Hills community in the Sagewood neighborhood. This homes open floorplan will entice you to gaze out the huge family room windows onto the private, tiled backyard that borders the ravine and provides a tranquil setting for easy living in the San Diego sun. Your primary bedroom suite shares the same largescale windows with natural light and exceptional views, all on one easy, convenient floor. The backyard invites family & friends with built-in barbecue and sunset drenched views. 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. Access the greenbelt trails from your private backyard gate for adventurous hikes. Join us for the Grand Opening Weekend Open Houses - Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th at 1:00pm-4:00pm | 1433rivercrestroad.com for additional info.
San Marcos, CA 92078+7992
MLS#: NDP2403664
$1,395,000
2326
sqft
2
Baths
3
Beds
Depending on GPS, use 1433 River Crest Rd. Incredibly rare single-level home with a beautiful backyard hugging the serene canyon and greenspace within the cherished San Elijo Hills community in the Sagewood neighborhood. This home’s open floorplan will entice you to gaze out the huge family room windows onto the private, tiled backyard that borders the ravine and provides a tranquil setting for easy living in the San Diego sun. Your primary bedroom suite shares the same largescale windows with natural light and exceptional views, all on one easy, convenient floor. The backyard invites family & friends with built-in barbecue and sunset drenched views. 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. Access the greenbelt trails from your private backyard gate for adventurous hikes. Join us for the Grand Opening Weekend Open Houses - Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th at 1:00pm-4:00pm | 1433rivercrestroad.com for additional info.
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#: 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
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#: 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.
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