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7 Great Neighborhoods in Downtown San Diego to Buy a Condo

By Mike in Downtown San Diego Real Estate with 0 Comments

The downtown San Diego area includes a few different neighborhoods, each with distinct advantages. Some are more walkable than others, while waterfront condos offer prime views. Some properties sit beneath airplane routes, making overhead noise a factor. Whatever amenities you’re looking for in 92101 condos, you’re almost certain to find them in one of these 7 neighborhoods.

1. Columbia

This largely commercial district borders the waterfront at its western end. Columbia houses 1,800 residential units, the San Diego Museum of Contemporary Art, and plenty of parking. In the works is a waterside promenade, which will include shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. The neighborhood will also be seeing new activity centers and restructured piers.

2. Core

Core is the center of downtown, its corporate and government hub. All the city’s major banks are located here. If you seek culture and a vibrant nightlife, you’ll find it at Civic Theatre and Copley Symphony Hall. New merchants have been setting up shop along C Street, making for fascinating shopping. With a walk score of 96 out of 100, Core is the third most walkable neighborhood in downtown.

3. Cortez Hill

Named for the historic El Cortez Hotel, this residential area is one of the most distinguished in the area. Its original Victorian buildings are sure to charm you. Under development are the Cortez Hill Neighborhood Park and 758 housing units. Shops and cafés soften the urban atmosphere, along with jacaranda trees. In Tweet Park, each plant supports native birds, along with colorful birdhouses crafted by local artists. Churches and schools draw families, and condos provide waterfront and mountain views. Cortez Hill is the highest point and quietest district in downtown.

4. East Village

This district has many new projects to offer, with many more on the way. Among the recent developments are a neighborhood park, library, four hotels, and a tree-lined promenade. East Village Square houses retail, office, and entertainment spaces. Balancing its urban character is an art section, flecked with galleries, studios, shops, and artists’ homes. East Village also supports 2 high schools, San Diego City College, and the New School of Architecture. The district’s walk score is 92.

5. Gaslamp

This neighborhood displays 50 gas lamps, installed during the Victorian era. At night, the globes cast a golden glow, creating a romantic ambiance. Historical buildings host coffeehouses, restaurants, and nightclubs. Among the modern structures are movie theaters, art galleries, and the famous Hard Rock Hotel. In the Gaslamp Quarter, you can anticipate lively monthly events celebrating holidays and cultural traditions. Among them are the Holiday Pet Parade, Mardi Gras, ShamROCK Festival, and Taste of Gaslamp, an exciting culinary tour. The Horton Plaza mall pays tribute to San Diego’s “historical father.” Alonzo Horton owned most of the land first developed in downtown. The mall contains over 140 restaurants and shops on 7 open-air levels. Surrounding the retail center are the Meridian condominiums, Horton Fourth Avenue apartments, and the Spreckels and Balboa theaters. Gaslamp is the most walkable downtown neighborhood.

6. Little Italy

Italian-Americans who spearheaded a thriving fishing industry were the founders of this neighborhood. If Little Italy becomes your home, you’ll enjoy fine dining and bay views. India Street is a major draw, featuring restaurants, galleries, and specialty shops. Amici Park is a favorite gathering place, with its amphitheater, playground, and food-themed public art. Of all the downtown communities, Little Italy is the friendliest. Annually, the streets host several festivals. Little Italy follows in the footsteps of Gaslamp as the second most walkable district in downtown.

7. Marina

Regarded as the “Diamond of Downtown,” this San Diego gem has the most high-rise condos of any district. Accordingly, it showcases prime bay views. With a low commercial profile, Marina has a quiet residential aura. The district is just steps away from the bay, Seaport Village, Gaslamp, and Horton Plaza. Many employees of the Core area live here and walk to work.

Once you’ve narrowed down which neighborhoods in downtown San Diego you’re most interested in, get in touch with 92101 Urban Living and we can show you a wide variety of condos in the area. Call the 92101 real estate experts at 619-649-0368 today to set up an appointment. ')}