Hillcrest

Hillcrest: Vibrant, Walkable, and Centrally Located in San Diego

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.

Velocity Realty is your expert partner for buying, selling, or investing in the Hillcrest real estate market.

Location & Accessibility

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.

Real Estate & Housing

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.

Community & Lifestyle

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.

Amenities & Schools

Local Amenities

• 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

Schools & Education

• 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.

Why Choose Hillcrest?

• 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.

Find Your Home in Hillcrest Today

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.

Contact us today to explore Hillcrest listings, schedule a showing, or position your home for a successful sale.