When most people think about moving to or retiring in San Diego County, they picture palm trees, perfect weather, and endless beach days—and yes, those are definitely part of the lifestyle. But if you’re seriously considering a move here, it’s important to look at the full picture, including the challenges that come with living in this beautiful coastal region.
Here’s a comprehensive and honest breakdown of the top cons—and then the pros—of moving to or retiring in San Diego County, complete with practical ways to mitigate each drawback and make the most of what could be your best chapter yet.
Table of Contents
❌ 10 Cons of Retiring in San Diego County (And How to Alleviate Them)
1. 🏠 High Home Prices
San Diego County, and more specifically Coastal San Diego is one of the most desirable real estate markets in the country—and prices reflect that. Whether you’re buying a condo or a single-family home, expect a premium cost, especially near the beach.
Currently the median sales price for a single family home in San Diego County is $1,055,000 as of March 2025.
Take a look at our monthly San Diego County Real Estate Market Updates here.
Check out the Top 10 Most Expensive Places to Live in North County San Diego
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Consider San Diego 55+ communities, which often offer lower price points with great amenities.
- Explore inland areas of North County like Rancho Bernardo, San Marcos, or parts of Oceanside, Vista and Escondido for better affordability.
- Downsize strategically and work with a local agent who can help uncover hidden gems.
2. 🧱 Limited New Construction and Inventory
San Diego County’s land is at a premium, especially near the coast. This limits how much new housing is built, and new homes often come with luxury price tags.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Look for well-maintained resale homes in mature communities.
- Consider a renovation project in a great location.
- Sign up for alerts on new phases or upcoming communities designed for 55+ buyers.
Local Real Estate Agent Tip
Here are a few new San Diego 55+ communities built in San Diego County in the last several years:
- The Junipers in Rancho Penasquitos (North County San Diego)
- Haddington at Cota Vera (Chula Vista, CA – South County San Diego)
- Auberge at Del Sur (San Diego, CA)
- Avante at Del Sur (San Diego, CA)
3. 🔥 Wildfire Risk in Certain Areas
Inland and rural parts of San Diego County face an increased risk of wildfire, especially during the dry season and Santa Ana wind events, which bring hot, dry, and gusty weather.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Check the local map for areas designated with High Fire Severity
- Focus on communities with fire-prevention strategies
- Choose homes with fire-resistant construction, ember-resistant vents, and defensible landscaping.
- Learn about how to protect your home from wildfire here. Some ideas include: 0-5 foot non-combustible zone, preparing the home’s exterior, maintaining decks and yards. See photo examples here.
- Get familiar with local evacuation routes and community alert systems.
- Be sure to get insurance quotes before making an offer on a property. See tips on how to find homeowner insurance in fire prone areas here.
4. 🌬️ Santa Ana Winds
Each fall and winter, San Diego County experiences Santa Ana winds, which can bring hot, dry conditions and worsen fire risks.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Understand wind-prone zones before you buy.
- Use this time for indoor activities and ensure your home is ready with shaded windows, fans, air-treatment, and backup power if needed.
- Stay updated via local fire departments and weather alerts.
- Download Alert San Diego Emergency Preparedness app
5. 🌵 Subject to Drought & Low Rainfall
San Diego County receives less rainfall than most U.S. cities, making it vulnerable to drought and water restrictions.
✅ Alleviate it: Choose homes with drought-tolerant landscaping, use smart irrigation, and support water-wise living—a regional priority already embraced here.
6. Not as Green as Other Regions
San Diego’s natural landscape—while stunning—is generally more arid and brown in summer, especially without summer rains. You won’t find dense forests or lush green lawns like in the Pacific Northwest or East Coast.
✅ Solution: Spring brings incredible blooms, like the Flower Fields in Carlsbad and desert wildflowers in Anza-Borrego. Consider choosing a community with well-maintained landscaping or one closer to the coast, where it’s slightly greener year-round. Embrace the native beauty—think succulents, palms, and golden sunsets.
7. 🌎 Earthquake Potential
Like all of California, San Diego sits in an earthquake-prone zone. While it’s less seismically active than the Bay Area or Los Angeles, the risk still exists.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Buy homes built after 1990 or retrofitted for seismic stability.
- Secure large furniture, water heaters, and keep an emergency kit.
- Add earthquake insurance for peace of mind.
8. 🚦 Metro Area Congestion
While San Diego is smaller than LA, downtown San Diego and freeway corridors like I-5, I-15, and I-805 can get congested during peak hours.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Choose North County coastal communities like Carlsbad, Encinitas, or Oceanside for a calmer pace.
- Work with a local agent who understands neighborhood lifestyle differences and can help you find your ideal day-to-day rhythm.
9. 💰 Cost of Living
Beyond housing, the overall cost of living—gas, groceries, insurance—is higher than the national average.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Take advantage of mild weather to save on utility bills
- Enjoy free or low-cost outdoor recreation like walking clubs, community concerts, and parks.
- Shop local and seasonal at farmers markets for fresh and affordable produce.
10. 🛠️ Insurance Costs Rising
In fire-prone or coastal areas, home insurance and umbrella policies have seen increases across California.
✅ How to alleviate it:
- Work with an insurance broker who specializes in the region.
- Bundle policies and install safety features (e.g., fire sprinklers, monitored alarms) to reduce premiums.
- Add automatic water shutoff valves for possible discounts
- Shop around annually for better rates.
✅ 10 Pros of Retiring in San Diego County (And Why It’s Worth It)
1. 🌤️ Ideal Year-Round Climate
With average temps in the 60s and 70s, San Diego County boasts one of the most temperate climates in the U.S.—no snow, low humidity, and very few truly hot days. Unlike the East Coast or Florida, San Diego offers dry, comfortable air and far fewer mosquitoes, gnats, and biting bugs. Also historically, San Diego is less likely to be affected by hurricanes or tropical storms.
Why it matters: Daily walks, golf, gardening, and socializing are possible all year—great for health and happiness. With no pesky bugs, outdoor living stays comfortable—no swatting, scratching, or sweating through muggy evenings.
2. 🏞️ Access to Beaches, Mountains, and Desert
Within 1.5 hours, you can:
- Surf at Moonlight Beach
- Hike in Palomar Mountain
- Stargaze in Anza-Borrego Desert
Why it matters: Adventure is built into your backyard—no flights required.
3. 🧑🌾 Year-Round Local Produce & Farmers Markets
San Diego’s growing conditions make it easy to eat well. Dozens of weekly farmers markets offer locally grown avocados, citrus, tomatoes, berries, and more.
Why it matters: Healthy eating supports a longer, more vibrant retirement—and you’re never in a food desert.
4. 🍽️ Diverse Dining and Cultural Scene
From beachside taco stands to fine dining, plus museums, galleries, concerts, and theaters—San Diego offers endless enrichment opportunities.
🗺️ Try: The Old Globe Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, San Diego Symphony, Moonlight Amphitheater, and year-round festivals.
5. 🏘️ Incredible 55+ Communities
San Diego County offers standout active adult communities like:
- Ocean Hills Country Club in Oceanside, California
- Oaks North in Rancho Bernardo (San Diego, California)
These communities offer resort-style living, security, and built-in social networks.
Watch Video of Ocean Hills Country Club, a premier 55+ community in Oceanside CA
6. 🏥 Access to Excellent Healthcare
Major systems include:
- Kaiser Permanente
- Palomar Health
- Scripps Health (including a new hospital planned in San Marcos)
- Sharp Healthcare
- Tri-City Medical Center
- UC San Diego Health
- VA San Diego Healthcare
Why it matters: Proximity to high-quality care supports wellness and independence as you age.
7. 🛫 Easy Access for Travel—and Family Visits
San Diego International Airport connects you to nearly anywhere.
Check out the non-stop international direct flights out of San Diego International Airport here.
And your grandkids? They’ll love visiting thanks to:
- LEGOLAND
- The beach
- The San Diego Zoo
- San Diego Safari Park
- Perfect weather
8. 💵 Predictable Property Taxes
Thanks to Proposition 13, property taxes are around 1% of assessed value, with small annual increases—unlike other states with rates 2% and up. In San Diego County, there is also a cap no more than 2% in annual increases when home values are rising.
Why it matters: Long-term affordability, especially if you’re planning to age in place.
Check out the tax rates by area in San Diego County here.
9. 💼 Job Opportunities for Kids and Grandkids
San Diego County is home to strong industries in:
- Military & defense
- Tourism & hospitality
- Technology
- Biotech / Life sciences
- Manufacturing: Craft Brewing, Life Sciences, Aerospace, and Tech as well as Cleantech
- Higher education
- Healthcare
More about the San Diego Region Economy
Here is a list of the major employers in San Diego County
Why it matters: Many retirees’ children and their families choose to relocate here for work—keeping families closer together.
10. ❤️ Being Close to Family—An Unmeasurable Gift
After the pandemic, many retirees have reevaluated what matters most. Being near children and grandchildren isn’t just convenient—it’s emotionally and mentally supportive, especially as we age.
Why it matters: No beach sunset compares to a grandchild’s smile at your doorstep.
🏡 What Life Feels Like in Retirement Here
Imagine:
- Coffee on your patio in January
- Strolling through a farmers market in February
- Attending an outdoor jazz concert in March
- Beach walks year-round
- Grandkids visiting each season
San Diego County is a coveted place to live, work, or retire in for its near perfect climate, and 70 miles of spectacular coastline and beaches. San Diego County offers a lifestyle that promotes well-being, community, and joy—and even with the trade-offs, many find it more than worth it.
💬 Thinking of Making the Move?
At DreamWell Homes Realty, we help retirees navigate the pros, cons, and everything in between. Whether you’re ready now or still exploring, we’re here to support your journey to smart, meaningful retirement living in San Diego County.
Contact Jean and Ken Tritle, a husband and wife real estate broker/agent team at DreamWell Homes Realty.
Call or Text: 760-798-9024
Email: jeanken@dreamwellhomes.com
Visit DreamWellHomes.com
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Let’s find your place in the sun—and make sure it fits everything you’ve dreamed of.
