Dorothy said it best in The Wizard of Oz: “There’s no place like home.” That sentiment hits especially hard in San Diego, where L. Frank Baum, the creator of Oz, felt a deep connection and wrote many of his stories.

Just like Baum, many find themselves drawn to the magic of San Diego, with quite a few choosing to stay permanently.

So, what’s it really like to live, work, and play here? If you’re exploring relocation options, read on to discover if moving to San Diego is the right choice for you. 

Pros of Moving to San Diego 

If you’re wondering, “Should I move to San Diego?” you’re in for a treat. This vibrant city offers these advantages that make it hard to resist:

Year-Round Sunshine

San Diego’s warm, sunny weather is one of its main attractions. Here, you can wake up to clear skies and sunshine nearly every day. With an average temperature of 70°F, SD lets you leave your heavy coats behind and enjoy an active vitamin-D-infused lifestyle outdoors. 

The Friendliest Faces

Warm weather, warm people. San Diegans make newcomers feel right at home with their laid-back, friendly demeanor. The city’s community spirit is almost tangible, with neighbors often coming together for local events. 

Well-Connected Routes

San Diego has an extensive highway network that’s boosted by the Integrated Corridor Management (ICM) system. This system coordinates different transport modes across the city’s main roads and transit routes to ease traffic congestion. 

Cultural Diversity 

San Diego boasts incredible ethnic diversity, with residents speaking over a hundred languages. Festivals like the San Diego International Film Festival and the Pacific Islander Festival highlight the city’s love for culture and art.

Abundant Opportunities

Aptly named the “City in Motion,” San Diego presents robust business and employment prospects in biotechnology, healthcare, tourism, and other vital sectors. The city’s competitive salaries attract top talent nationwide. 

Nature’s Playground

San Diego is a natural paradise with easy access to stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and lush green spaces. You can spend your weekends surfing in La Jolla, hiking in Torrey Pines, or exploring the scenic trails of Balboa Park.

Cons of Moving to San Diego 

When considering a move to San Diego, you’ve got to balance your excitement with a little reality check. Sure, the city has tons of perks, but knowing the following challenges will help you make a well-informed decision:

High Cost of Living

San Diego is ranked as the 8th most expensive city in the US, with a cost of living that’s 3% higher than the rest of California. Moreover, the city’s healthcare costs are 5% higher than the national average.

Wheels Wanted (In General)

In San Diego, having a car can make life a lot easier, especially if you’re staying a while. The city has buses and a trolley system, but they mostly cover downtown and key suburban areas. This might not be so convenient if you live or work outside these central spots. 

Traffic Congestion

Traffic in San Diego can get busy, particularly during rush hour. Although it’s not as intense as LA, it’s still something for commuters to keep in mind. Also, parking in popular areas can be a bit of a challenge.

Weather Extremes

While San Diego generally has mild weather, it can get quite hot in the summer, causing occasional wildfires and droughts. However, San Diego has diversified its water supply to help overcome water shortages. The region has also implemented wildfire management and infrastructure improvements to boost climate change resilience.

Best San Diego Neighborhoods 

Moving to San Diego but can’t pick a place in the city? These top five locales should be on your radar:

East Village

As Downtown San Diego’s largest urban neighborhood, East Village is a hotspot for nightlife, dining, and education. It’s popular among college students and young professionals due to its energetic environment and proximity to Petco Park​.

La Jolla

La Jolla, meaning “the jewel,” truly shines with its gorgeous coastline, luxury shops, and upscale eateries. If you enjoy the finer things, La Jolla’s polished lifestyle is a perfect fit.

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley is a safe and family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of recreational activities and top-notch schools, such as Torrey Pines High School and Canyon Crest Academy.

University Heights

University Heights offers an eclectic, laid-back vibe with a strong community feel. It features diverse dining, parks, and local shops and is just a stone’s throw from Balboa Park’s cultural attractions and the San Diego Zoo. 

Little Italy

Little Italy is a historic neighborhood celebrated for its lively food and drink scene, charming atmosphere, and walkability. Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market is a Saturday hotspot for fresh produce, artisan foods, and crafts. 

How to Move to San Diego: Top Relocation Strategies 

Regardless of whether you’re relocating out of state or from another city, it can be stressful. But with these essential tips, moving to San Diego can be surprisingly smooth: 

1. Scout Your Neighborhood

Explore San Diego’s neighborhoods to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Consider commute times, schools, and local amenities. Anyplace, a flexible housing platform enables you to test out the area before making a long-term commitment.

2. Go for Flexible Leases

Still uncertain where to drop anchor? Flexible leases let you take your time and avoid making decisions you’ll regret. Flexible stay apartments allow you to experience different neighborhoods and get a feel for the city before committing to a permanent residence. 

3. Sort Out Healthcare 

Research local healthcare providers and insurance options. San Diego has excellent hospitals, but costs can be high. Consider setting up appointments with your primary care physician and any specialists you may need to see to get a feel of the healthcare system in San Diego.

4. Plan Your Commute

Decide if you need a car or can use public transit like MTS buses and trolleys. Or you can be more strategic and simplify your life by choosing apartments right at the heart of the city, just like our properties at Anyplace.

5. Rent Fully Furnished Apartments 

Getting a temporary stay that’s equipped with all the essentials (plus some creature comforts!) saves you time and trouble, letting you settle in ASAP. You don’t have to worry about the hassle and expense of buying furniture and household items, freeing you up to focus on other aspects of your move.

Score a Stress-Free Start in San Diego with Anyplace

With Anyplace, moving to San Diego is a breeze. Our fully furnished apartments make you feel at home right away. They’re also all-inclusive living, which means utilities and cleaning services―even an amply stocked kitchen―are covered. This allows you to dive effortlessly into San Diego life from day one. 

We know you constantly strive for excellence. That’s why each of our apartments is equipped with an efficiently designed home office featuring high-speed internet and an ergonomic desk setup.

All work and no play—you’ve heard that many times before. But at Anyplace, we take this adage seriously. Our apartment’s luxurious amenities, like fitness centers, rooftop terraces, pools, and lounges, create a truly comfortable and pleasurable living experience. 

Late for your appointment? No worries! Anyplace apartments are strategically located near business hubs, learning institutions, dining and entertainment spots, and more. You’ll be at your destination in no time! 

Best of all, we offer flexible lease options. You can stay as long or as short as you need―no tedious contracts required. Simply slide in and adjust your stay as you go.

Whether it’s 30, 65, or 99 days, the choice is yours. 

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Where to next? Find monthly rentals designed for remote workers on Anyplace.