Golden Hill offers a unique blend of historic homes, creative culture, and central city access just minutes from downtown San Diego. With Craftsman and Victorian architecture, walkable streets, and a growing arts and culinary scene, this neighborhood appeals to buyers, investors, and lifestyle-driven homeowners alike. Contact Velocity Realty to find your next property or sell in Golden Hill with confidence.
9,299 people live in Golden Hill, where the median age is 35 and the average individual income is $44,977. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Golden Hill has 4,873 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Golden Hill do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 9,299 people call Golden Hill home. The population density is 18,478.802 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Golden Hill, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Nish Nish Sweets, Dorothy Shields At One Dot, and Harli Dearborn Salon | Hairstylist.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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Yelp
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Dining | 1.84 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.27 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.57 miles | 18 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.99 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.14 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 4.84 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.84 miles | 42 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.59 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.11 miles | 25 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Perched on the hills just east of downtown, Golden Hill is one of San Diego’s oldest and most storied neighborhoods—rich in history, steeped in character, and rising fast in real estate value. This centrally located community offers everything today’s buyers and investors are looking for: early 1900s charm, walkable streets, vibrant local culture, and easy access to the city’s most dynamic districts.
With a mix of restored Victorians, Craftsman bungalows, apartments, and duplexes, Golden Hill has long drawn artists, entrepreneurs, and long-term residents who value authenticity over uniformity. But over the past decade, it has also seen new energy—craft breweries, coffee houses, modern renovations, and increasing interest from developers and out-of-town buyers.
Golden Hill’s location is unbeatable for anyone who wants to be in the heart of it all while enjoying a neighborhood vibe.
Directly east of Downtown San Diego, just south of Balboa Park
Quick access to I-5, CA-94, and I-15
Walking and biking distance to East Village, South Park, and North Park
5–10 minutes to San Diego International Airport, Petco Park, and the Gaslamp Quarter
Well served by MTS bus routes and close to trolley lines
Golden Hill offers the rare mix of urban convenience with historic charm—making it one of the most accessible and connected neighborhoods in the city.
Golden Hill’s housing inventory is eclectic, historic, and full of investment upside.
Architectural styles include:
Victorian, Craftsman, and Spanish Revival homes
Early 20th-century bungalows, fourplexes, and mid-century apartments
Increasing number of modern infill projects and adaptive reuse developments
Many homes date back to the early 1900s and have been lovingly restored or remodeled
Lots are compact but functional, often with alley access, ADU potential, or zoning flexibility
Real estate types available:
Single-family homes: $750K–$1.5M+
Condos and apartments: $500K–$800K
Duplexes and multifamily: $1.2M–$2.5M+ depending on size and condition
Golden Hill is popular with:
Creative professionals and remote workers
Investors seeking long-term rental income or short-term rental zoning
Buyers priced out of North Park or South Park looking for character and proximity
It’s one of the few places in San Diego where you can own a piece of architectural history just minutes from downtown.
Golden Hill blends edge and elegance—a neighborhood where history, art, and community all coexist.
Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and independent spirit
Home to artists, musicians, young professionals, and longtime locals
Community staples include:
Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
Influx Cafe
Krakatoa
Golden Hill Park (with tennis courts, picnic areas, and Balboa Park trail access)
Regular community events like the Golden Hill Street Fair, art walks, and pop-up markets
Strong sense of neighbor identity and civic engagement
This is a walkable, expressive, and inclusive neighborhood where people know their baristas and neighbors—and where every home has a story.
Walkable access to:
Grocery stores, coffee shops, yoga studios, and co-working spaces
Bakeries, plant stores, bike shops, and corner markets
Short drive to:
Downtown San Diego restaurants
Liberty Station and Little Italy
Mission Bay, Coronado, and Hillcrest
Golden Hill is also adjacent to Balboa Park, offering residents access to:
Museums
Botanical gardens
Dog parks
The world-renowned San Diego Zoo
Served by San Diego Unified School District
Nearby public and charter schools include:
Golden Hill K–8
Albert Einstein Academies
San Diego High School
Close to City College, SDSU (via CA-94), and numerous private school options
Popular among families who homeschool or enroll in magnet and specialty programs
Golden Hill appeals to households seeking flexibility, walkability, and strong enrichment opportunities without leaving the city.
Unmatched Urban Charm
Early 20th-century homes, mature trees, and front porches with city views.
Proximity to Downtown Without the Noise
Enjoy easy access to the Gaslamp, airport, and Petco Park—without sacrificing residential calm.
Historic and Architectural Appeal
Own a piece of San Diego’s early history with homes that showcase craftsmanship and detail.
Diverse and Inclusive Vibe
A neighborhood for artists, professionals, families, and community-minded residents.
Investment and Rental Potential
High demand for rentals, zoning for duplexes and ADUs, and potential for appreciation.
Golden Hill is where San Diego’s past meets its creative future. Whether you’re drawn to the restored Victorians, the community energy, or the location’s unmatched convenience, this neighborhood continues to be one of the best-kept secrets for real estate in central San Diego. From selling a classic to buying your first urban home, Velocity Realty is your partner in making it happen.
You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.