If you’re California dreaming, San Diego may be on your list of desired retirement destinations. Renowned for its idyllic climate, unparalleled natural beauty, and wide array of things to do, it’s no wonder people are moving to San Diego.
The area is especially popular among those who already live in California. According to data from Redfin, homebuyers from Los Angeles and San Francisco expressed the most interest in moving to San Diego this year, followed by homebuyers from New York City, Dallas, and Washington, D.C.
Why do people want to retire in San Diego? Well, for starters, this SoCal metropolis has it all. San Diego boasts 70 miles of picturesque coastline, rugged cliffs, peaceful bays, as well as diverse flora and fauna. The city’s stunning landscapes make every day feel like a retreat into nature. Also, there are perks like a vibrant arts community, low crime rates, access to top-rated medical facilities, and many other benefits for homebuyers.
Why else might you want to retire in San Diego, the second-largest city in the Golden State? Let’s dive into everything you should know about moving to San Diego. We’ll take a look at taxes, health care, and some 55+ communities in San Diego to check out for yourself.
Retiring in San Diego: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Fantastic weather year-round – Say goodbye to harsh, snowy winters and searing summer heatwaves. Nearly every day is pleasant in San Diego. The city is perfect for those who want to enjoy strolling the beach or hiking the trails in places like Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
- A vibrant cultural scene – As a tourist destination, San Diego boasts numerous theaters, museums, and cultural events. The San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park is the region’s oldest and largest art museum, featuring elegant galleries and stunningly curated exhibits.
- Diverse dining options – San Diego is a retirement haven for foodies. The city offers a rich and varied culinary landscape, including year-round farmers’ markets, food festivals, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Cons
- It costs more than many other cities – San Diego isn’t known as one of the country’s most affordable cities. This can be challenging, especially for retirees on fixed budgets.
- The traffic can be challenging – Like most other metropolitan areas, San Diego can get bogged down with traffic. It can sometimes be difficult to find parking in popular areas.
- There’s an earthquake risk – Major quakes are rare, but San Diego is in a seismically active region. The risk of earthquakes is something to consider when planning your retirement.
San Diego Climate
Moving to San Diego means you can enjoy a Mediterranean climate and gentle seasons throughout the year. The city sees very little rain and mostly clear skies. Summer temperatures may reach the low 80s, while temperatures may dip to the mid-50s in the winter. So, you won’t need to worry about scorching summers or frigid winters.
With such a fantastic climate, you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities all year long. Go for a bike ride along a scenic coastal path or take a stroll along the shore. You could also spend the day golfing at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course, which offers spectacular panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
San Diego Taxes
If you’re thinking about moving to California, you’re probably aware of the state’s higher-than-average taxes. The state’s income tax ranges from 1 to 13.3% depending on your income level, which can affect your retirement budget. When it comes to sales tax, eight cities within San Diego County have a 7.75% sales tax rate.
San Diego Property Taxes
Property taxes in San Diego are relatively moderate compared to other major California cities, with a base rate of 1% of your home’s assessed value, plus additional local levies. Proposition 13 limits annual property tax increases and can provide some stability in tax costs. California also offers several exemptions and programs that may benefit active adults, so you may be able to further reduce your property tax burden.
San Diego Retirement Income Taxes
If you’re thinking about moving to San Diego, you should know that some forms of retirement income, including withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s, are subject to state income tax. However, Social Security benefits are not taxed in California, and the state doesn’t tax pension income, which can be beneficial when it comes to your retirement savings.
San Diego Tax Exemptions for Seniors
You may qualify for California’s property tax postponement program, which allows you to defer property taxes. The state also offers various income tax credits or deductions. It may be in your best interest to talk with a financial professional in San Diego to get personalized guidance.
San Diego Health Care
If you’re considering moving to San Diego, the city is home to numerous top-rated hospitals. The UC San Diego System as well as the Scripps Health network of hospitals are known for their specialty services and high-quality care.
Additionally, UC San Diego Health-La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals in La Jolla are on the U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hospitals Honor Roll. This general medical and surgical facility is nationally ranked in 11 adult specialties and rated high-performing in 19 adult procedures and conditions.
Where to Live in San Diego
When thinking about where to live in San Diego, each neighborhood has its own unique appeal. Whether you want to be a stone’s throw away from the ocean or you want a laid-back coastal vibe, there are many areas to explore.
For example, if you’re a beach enthusiast who loves upscale dining and shopping, take a look at La Jolla. If you want a more relaxed beach atmosphere, head just north of San Diego to Carlsbad. This charming beach city is walkable and provides easy access to all kinds of restaurants and shops.
Wondering where to retire in San Diego? Here are some 55+ communities within San Diego and surrounding areas.
Featured 55+ Communities Within San Diego
Oaks North
High $400ks – Low $1Ms
Consisting of eight separate neighborhoods, Oaks North contains mostly single-family homes but also offers attached residences and condos. Residences range from about 1,000 square feet to 1,900 square feet. Also, the homeowners’ association (HOA) fees vary by neighborhood. Residents can take advantage of numerous amenities, including a 27-hole golf course, two tennis courts, an arts and crafts studio, as well as an outdoor pool and patio. There’s even a historic winery within the community.
Seven Oaks
Low $600ks – Low $1Ms
Seven Oaks contains 1,700 single-family and attached homes. The attached units feature single-level living as well as granite countertops and enclosed patios. Also, most of the single-family homes include granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and private yards. Amenities include an outdoor pool and patio plus 10 shuffleboard courts, walking and biking trails, and a putting green.
Auberge at Del Sur
High $1Ms – High $1Ms
Situated within the master-planned community of Del Sur, homes in Auberge at Del Sur range from 1,276 to nearly 3,000 square feet. Outdoor amenities abound at this 55+ community, including 11 pools, three picnic areas, a dog park, as well as 12 miles of walking and biking trails. Also, when grandkids come to visit, they can enjoy the three playgrounds and a barbecue area.
Regency Villas
Mid $300ks – Mid $400ks
Regency Villas is a 55+ community containing 132 condo units ranging from 578 to 816 square feet. The HOA takes care of things like landscaping as well as common area maintenance. Living at Regency Villas also gives residents access to amenities like a fitness center, a multipurpose room, and an outdoor barbecue area.
Avante at Del Sur
Low $1Ms
Containing just over 100 homes, Avante at Del Sur is an option for homebuyers looking for low-maintenance living in San Diego. The 55+ community features eight floor plans from 1,544 to 1,787 square feet. Offerings include single-level and two-story homes, with some featuring in-home elevators. Also, amenities include a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and spa, and a gazebo and fire pit for gathering with friends and neighbors.
Featured 55+ Communities in the Surrounding San Diego Area
Oceana – Oceanside, CA
Mid $300ks – High $600ks
Built between 1964 and 1984, Oceana is situated just four miles from the ocean and offers attached and single-family homes. Properties range from 660 to 1,620 square feet with many homes featuring patios or atriums. Homeowners can also take advantage of amenities within the clubhouse, including a card room and woodworking shop. Additionally, the outdoor pools and whirlpool spas provide opportunities to enjoy the pleasant Southern California climate.
Rancho Carlsbad – Carlsbad, CA
High $500ks – Low $800ks
Single-family homes within Rancho Carlsbad range from 1,300 to 2,150 square feet and provide a driveway or carport, with some recent models including a two-car garage. Also, the 12,500-square-foot recreation center features an exercise room and two arts and crafts studios. Outdoor amenities include courts for tennis and bocce ball as well as a fenced dog park and individual gardening plots.
High Country Villas – Encinitas, CA
Low $800ks – High $800ks
Located just three miles from the ocean, High Country Villas offers single-family and attached homes ranging from 884 to just over 1,000 square feet. Homeowners can get to know their neighbors through various social opportunities, including regular happy hours and Sunday chats. Also, this 55+ community contains a clubhouse, a 9-hole golf course, two pools, and an outdoor whirlpool spa.
Hidden Meadows – Escondido, CA
Mid $800ks – Mid $1Ms
If you’re looking to retire in San Diego and are open to a community without age restrictions, take a look at Hidden Meadows. This active lifestyle community is located about 40 miles north of San Diego and offers single-family homes. These homes range from 1,412 to nearly 5,000 square feet. Some homes featuring fireplaces, freestanding tubs, as well as walk-in closets with built-in shelving. Homeowners can also enjoy amenities such as a pool and patio, tennis courts, and plenty of natural space.
Lake San Marcos – San Marcos, CA
High $500ks – Low $2Ms
Some neighborhoods within Lake San Marcos are reserved for 55+ homebuyers while others are without age restrictions. Active adult homebuyers can choose from single-family homes, attached homes, and condos. Homeowners can also access abundant amenities, including four restaurants, a fitness center, and several retailers within the community. Other amenities include two golf courses, community pools, as well as easy access to the lake, which offers boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to rent.
Vista Del Mar – Vista, CA
Mid $500ks – Low $600ks
This 55+ community contains manufactured homes offering 1,248 to 1,980 square feet, open floor plans, private patios, and stainless-steel appliances. At the community clubhouse, homeowners can enjoy a well-stocked library, a multipurpose room, a ballroom for neighborhood parties, as well as a billiards room. The amenities continue outdoors with a pool, a whirlpool spa, a patio, a putting green, horseshoe pits, a tennis court, as well as walking and biking trails.
You Can Retire in San Diego With 55places!
America’s Finest City offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a high quality of life that can make retirement truly fulfilling. Want to explore the possibility of moving to San Diego? Contact 55places.com today to learn about homes for sale in the San Diego area!
