Sun-kissed and seaside, San Diego has long shrugged off its stuffy military beginnings for a colorful and diverse community. From trendy boutiques to the world’s only gay brewery, America’s 8th largest city is practically built for an LGBTQ transplant.
San Diego has been called the birthplace of California for a reason. In 1602, Sebastián Vizcaíno landed in the harbor that is now Mission Bay and Point Loma. He named the region after the Catholic Saint Didacus who is more commonly known as San Diego de Alcalá.
San Diego is 120 miles south of Los Angeles and adjacent to Mexico. As of July 2018, the estimated population of the city was 1,425,976.
The area is known for its natural deep-water harbor, mild climate, and long association with the U.S. Navy. Recently, San Diego has become a magnet for healthcare and biotechnology development. The future is bright!
Here are some more stats about San Diego.
The San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center (called The Center) is one of the largest and most active LGBT community gatherings in the country. They work, day in and out, to promote LGBTQ health and wellness, human rights, and local resources. Stop in to chat about the local gay scene and meet some new friends!
The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce is also a good resource for business owners. It’s a hub for collaboration and connections in the business community.
One of the brightest places in the country, San Diego sees around 300 days of sunshine a year. Rest assured there are fantastic events every weekend that take advantage of this. Whether you bike on the beach or lounge by the pool, the weather will shine in your favor.
San Diego's coldest month is December, where the average temperature is 48.9°F. In August, it rises to 77.5°F. The mildest times of year are spring and fall. But, come on, it’s San Diego. Every season is incredible.
Hillcrest Mardi Gras (February) A massive street party with a huge dance stage and open-air beats. This is the town’s annual Fat Tuesday celebration. Scandal is rewarded!
FilmOut San Diego (April) The annual LGBT film festival. It helps to promote, celebrate, and support the diverse contributions of LGBTQ filmmakers.
Pride of Hillcrest Block Party (July) San Diego pride with urban style and flare. The streets in Hillcrest are shut down to become dance stages and everyone is family in this giant annual block party. It even has a Ferris wheel. Touché!
She Fest (July) A woman-centered event. The festival celebrates the talents and contributions of women and facilitates meaningful connections within the LGBT and larger community.
San Diego Pride (July) This is San Diego’s biggest summer party and you’re invited! This is a three-day LGBTQ event that isn’t just about partying. It also includes thought-provoking speakers, sports events, and a rally.
Hillcrest is the “gaybourhood” of San Diego and the center of LGBTQ activities. They host the city’s annual gay pride parade, as well as other events year-round. Don’t forget about the Wednesday night drag show at Urban MO’s Bar & Grill.
5.1% of households in the area are same-sex couples. Most of the architecture is single-family homes and condos.
The median price for a home in Hillcrest is $545,006.
A lot of the population commutes to work by bike, and the area is full of gay bars, farm-to-table eateries, and fabulous shops. There is also a weekly Farmer’s Market that sells produce, flowers, and local treats.
In North Park, 3.1% of the households are same-sex couples. It’s a tad quieter than Hillcrest and more family-oriented. The area is full of condos built in the 80s and single-family homes that date back to the 20s. You can find a cute, vintage space here.
The median price for a home in North Park is $576,028.
The neighborhood is nestled directly next to the huge North Park Community Park with a recreation center, basketball court, and hundreds of activities.
There is also the North Park Community Association that watches over the area to ensure the safety and contentment of all residents in the neighborhood.
Normal Heights is considered a densely urban neighborhood with 1.7% of residents living with a same-sex partner. This area is more affordable than other LGBTQ enclaves in San Diego, but the housing is smaller. It has a higher proportion of apartments and condos than other areas.
The median price for a home in Normal Heights is $467,618.
Normal Heights is home to Ward Canyon Park and is a lively area with gastropubs, cool cafes, and thrift shops. Concerts are held frequently at Trolley Barn Park, as well as outdoor movie screenings. It’s a hip paradise.
This neighborhood sits in central San Diego and offers a variety of different housing options from condos to cottages to million-dollar homes. 3.9% of households in this neighborhood are same-sex couples. Like Old Town nearby, there are a ton of Spanish Colonial bungalows that populate the area.
The median price for a home in University Heights is $540,745.
The residents in University Heights make above average income and most people have a 15 minute or less commute to work. The area is only a few minutes away from Balboa Park, San Diego State University, and the San Diego Airport.
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Diversionary Theatre Founded in 1986, it’s one of the oldest LGBTQ theaters in the US. The theater is home to thought-provoking performances. They explore complex and diverse LGBTQ stories that have a greater impact on the surrounding communities.
San Diego Museum of Art Built in 1926, the SDMA is home to a large collection of Spanish art. There are also pieces from 19th and 20th century American artists and an old master collection.
Balboa Park This is where science, nature, and culture collide in the city. Balboa Park is breathtaking. The park is home to more than 16 museums, performing arts venues, trails, gardens, and other attractions, like the San Diego Zoo. It boasts more than 1,200 lushly planted acres of plants and flowers that make it a total treat, any time of year.
San Diego Old Town Centered in the 9-block State Historic Park, visiting Old Town is like stepping into a Spanish village in the second half of the 18th century. It’s home to California’s first schoolhouse and newspaper office. After learning about history, reward yourself with a quick cocktail at one of the many patio bars.
La Jolla Beaches A favorite gay spot, this is a chain of beaches known as “the jewel” of San Diego. They offer stunning views, fabulous restaurants, and trendy hotels.
Black’s Beach This is a secluded section of beach beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines with clothing-optional areas. It has a great vibe and is super pumped on the weekends.
Ocean Beach Another LGBTQ-friendly spot close to the Ocean Beach Pier. The white-sand beaches are perfect for sunbathing and there are delicious restaurants nearby for lazy noshing. Check out the local Farmer’s Market for fresh produce and snacks.
No matter where you relocate to in San Diego, the city is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly environments in America. You’ll feel comfortable, inspired, and like you’ve just come home. Connect with a San Diego Gay Realtor for a no obligation conversation at https://www.gayrealestate.
