Hillcrest is one of San Diego’s most walkable and energetic neighborhoods, offering historic homes, modern condos, and unbeatable location just north of downtown. With local dining, culture, nightlife, and community spirit, it’s a top choice for buyers and investors alike. Contact Velocity Realty to explore Hillcrest real estate opportunities today.
15,570 people live in Hillcrest, where the median age is 38 and the average individual income is $67,100. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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Hillcrest has 8,793 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Hillcrest do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 15,570 people call Hillcrest home. The population density is 16,342.742 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
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There's plenty to do around Hillcrest, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including FitFuel Meal Prep, Moon & Sun , and San Diego Coin Buyers.
Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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Dining | 2.46 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Shopping | 1.05 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Shopping | 2.34 miles | 13 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Shopping | 1.5 miles | 10 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.87 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Active | 1.95 miles | 38 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 0.89 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.21 miles | 41 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.11 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 3.52 miles | 43 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.08 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.24 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 2.15 miles | 22 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
Beauty | 1.31 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Hillcrest is one of San Diego’s most beloved and vibrant urban neighborhoods. Known for its diversity, character-rich streets, and lively commercial district, it offers a walkable lifestyle just north of downtown. With a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and investment properties, Hillcrest appeals to a wide range of buyers—from first-timers and professionals to long-term homeowners and real estate investors.
Anchored by its iconic red sign, Hillcrest’s energy is unmatched. This neighborhood blends culture, cuisine, community, and convenience into one highly livable package. Whether you’re looking to live in the heart of San Diego or position yourself in a high-demand real estate market, Hillcrest is the place to be.
Hillcrest offers one of the most convenient and connected locations in San Diego County.
Just north of Downtown San Diego and adjacent to Bankers Hill, Mission Hills, and North Park
Minutes from Balboa Park, UCSD Medical Center, and San Diego Zoo
Quick access to CA-163, I-5, and I-8 freeways
10–15 minutes to San Diego International Airport, Old Town, and Little Italy
Walkable to grocery stores, cafes, bookstores, gyms, and nightlife
Served by MTS bus routes and within biking distance of multiple city hubs
You can live in Hillcrest without needing a car—and still reach the city’s top destinations with ease.
Hillcrest offers one of the most dynamic housing markets in central San Diego. Inventory ranges from historic homes to modern condos, with strong rental and resale demand.
Home types include:
Craftsman bungalows, Spanish-style homes, and early 20th-century architecture
Mid-rise condos, urban lofts, and townhomes
Multi-unit investment properties, many with rental upside
Common features:
Walkability to shops and nightlife
Private balconies, rooftop decks, and city views
ADU potential on older lots with alley access
Price ranges:
Condos and townhomes: $500K–$900K
Single-family homes: $900K–$1.5M+
Multifamily buildings: $1.2M–$3M+
High rental demand from:
Medical professionals working at UCSD, Scripps Mercy, and Sharp
Students attending USD, City College, or SDSU
Digital nomads and professionals drawn to the central location and lifestyle
Hillcrest real estate is ideal for buyers who want to live in the action—or investors seeking stable income and appreciation.
Hillcrest has long been the heart of San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community, but it’s also a welcoming and inclusive hub for residents of all ages, backgrounds, and professions.
Known for its pride, activism, and community engagement
Offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and nightlife
Walkable blocks with a mix of local businesses and national retailers
Regular events include:
San Diego Pride Parade (one of the largest in the country)
Hillcrest Farmers Market — a weekly favorite for fresh produce and local eats
CityFest, street fairs, and cultural events throughout the year
Dog-friendly parks, nearby trails, and easy access to Balboa Park’s museums and gardens
Whether you’re catching a drag brunch, biking to the zoo, or grabbing a matcha on the way to yoga, Hillcrest delivers personality and lifestyle.
Walkable access to:
Grocery options like Whole Foods, Ralphs, and Trader Joe’s
Fitness centers including Fit Athletic Club, CorePower Yoga, and Orangetheory
Coffee shops, bookstores, ice cream parlors, and rooftop bars
Nearby hotspots:
University Avenue and Fifth Avenue corridors
Easy access to Hillcrest Cinemas, local breweries, and foodie-favorite restaurants
Close to Balboa Park, which includes:
Museums, dog parks, art installations, and open green space
Quick access to the San Diego Zoo, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Old Globe Theatre
Part of the San Diego Unified School District
Nearby schools include:
Florence Elementary
Roosevelt Middle School
San Diego High School
Close proximity to:
University of San Diego (USD)
San Diego City College
San Diego State University (SDSU) via direct transit or freeway
Hillcrest’s education options and proximity to multiple universities make it ideal for families, students, and long-term renters.
Unbeatable Walkability
Shop, dine, and live without ever needing a car.
Historic Meets Modern
Charming architecture, updated interiors, and diverse housing options.
Inclusive Community
A neighborhood built on pride, expression, and progressive values.
Urban Access
Minutes to downtown, the airport, Balboa Park, and beach routes.
Proven Real Estate Demand
Low vacancy rates, stable appreciation, and long-term rental appeal.
Hillcrest isn’t just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. From turn-of-the-century homes to sleek condos near the center of it all, this neighborhood blends city energy with community soul. If you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in Hillcrest real estate, Velocity Realty is ready to guide you with local expertise and proven results.
You’ve got questions and we can’t wait to answer them.