8 Things to Know Before Moving to Escondido, CA
Escondido is a bustling city in San Diego County’s inland North County. The town is a great place to live thanks to its long history, varied culture, and wealth of modern conveniences.
History buffs will enjoy learning about Escondido, which stretches back to the early days of Spanish colonialism. Before the Spanish explorers came to the area, it was occupied by many Native American tribes. Escondido has grown over the years into a flourishing metropolis that values its history and community strongly. Agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism have all played significant roles in the city’s expansion and prosperity.
Here are eight things to know before moving to Escondido, CA.
1. A culturally vibrant and diverse city
Escondido has become a multicultural and dynamic city in recent years. The city’s population boom has attracted people from all walks of life, enhancing the already vibrant cultural scene. In order to provide for its citizens, the municipal government keeps spending money on new buildings, improved public services, and expanded community programs.
Escondido now provides a seamless combination of its historic past and cutting-edge conveniences. The city is home to the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, which plays host to many different types of performances and exhibitions. The Escondido Farmers Market and the Cruisin’ Grand antique automobile show are two of the city’s most well-attended annual events.
2. A convenient location
Escondido is a thriving community that is well-known for its central location in North County, and its central location makes it easy to reach many of the region’s best points of interest. Escondido, roughly 30 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, provides inhabitants with a convenient blend of suburban comforts with proximity to city conveniences.
To the east of Escondido is the spectacular Palomar Mountain Range, and to the west are the gentle hills of the Valley Center. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the city’s location offers people spectacular vistas and a peaceful atmosphere.
Escondido has excellent transportation links to nearby urban centers and tourist hotspots despite its tranquil location. Interstate 15, which runs through Escondido and connects it to San Diego and other towns to the south and inland cities to the north, is only one example of how well-situated the city is in terms of accessibility. Additionally, both Carlsbad and Oceanside can be reached quickly and easily through Highway 78.
3. Get around the city on the Sprinter
North County Transit District (NCTD) operates the Sprinter light rail system in Escondido, making it accessible to individuals who prefer not to drive. Because the Sprinter links Escondido and Oceanside, people living inland have easier access to the commuter train and Amtrak services that serve the coastal cities.
It’s very easy to get between Escondido and San Diego by car. Commuters in the city have access to a number of convenient transportation alternatives, including major highways and public transit options, including the Sprinter, which provides direct connections to the Coaster and Amtrak.
4. The cost of living is 45% higher than the national average
Escondido has a cost of living index of 145. A year’s worth of living expenses for a single person in Escondido comes to $46,834 (this includes rent or mortgage payment, groceries, child care, gas for the car, medical care, insurance, and taxes).
The city’s median home price is $795,956. The large number of available single-family homes is a major selling point for Escondido. The city’s buildings range from ultra-modern to classical to conventional to Spanish-influenced. Large lots are common in Escondido, so many homes there have room for a pool or other outside amenities. Pride of ownership and well-kept homes are hallmarks of Escondido’s residential areas.
5. Escondido Union School District serves the city
Escondido provides a wide variety of educational options for pupils of all ages. The city is home to a wide range of public, private, and charter institutions, each of which has its own special set of resources and opportunities for learning.
The majority of the local population’s educational needs are met by the Escondido Union School District and the Escondido Union High School District. These districts run elementary, middle, and high schools, all of which are committed to educating their children well and setting them up for future success. Escondido is home to several excellent public schools, including Mission Middle School, Del Dios Academy of Arts and Sciences, and San Pasqual High School. These institutions support students’ development by providing them with several opportunities outside the classroom.
It’s also easy to get to and from various nearby colleges and universities from Escondido. Located in the middle of town, Palomar College provides access to a wide range of pathways to higher education and professional development through its many associate degree and certificate programs. California State University, San Marcos, is easily accessible and has a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields.
6. A safe city to live in
Escondido is well-known for its dedication to keeping its inhabitants safe and secure. Significant progress has been achieved throughout the years to increase public safety and decrease crime rates in the city. Recent data shows that Escondido has a violent crime rate of 21.5, which is lower than the US average of 22.7, and a property crime rate of 32.7, which is lower than the US average of 35.4.
The crime rate in Escondido has been decreasing over the past few years, reflecting the city’s increasing safety. In an effort to make its citizens feel safer and reduce crime, the city has developed a number of programs and policies.
The officers of the Escondido Police Department are committed to keeping the peace and have extended hours protecting the city. Departmental policies prioritize building trusting connections with locals and encouraging individuals to actively participate in crime prevention.
7. Attend the Grape Day Festival
The people of Escondido have a reputation for being kind and open. The people who live here value their community and regularly get together to celebrate it. Throughout the year, the city plays host to a plethora of festivals and cultural gatherings that honor the many ethnic groups who call it home and highlight their unique customs, music, and cuisine.
All are welcome to participate in and learn from the city’s many cultural traditions, such as the yearly Grape Day Festival honoring the city’s agricultural history and the festive Dia de los Muertos parties.
8. Visit the Daley Ranch Preserve or Kit Carson Park
Escondido is a great place to visit if you’re a fan of the great outdoors or just want to try something new. The city’s location among beautiful wilderness areas gives locals easy access to the great outdoors.
The Daley Ranch Preserve is a great place to enjoy the outdoors in Escondido. Trails for walking, biking, and even horseback riding may be found all over this natural reserve’s more than three thousand acres. The preserve’s varied landscape of rolling hills, oak woodlands, and riparian areas makes for a beautiful setting for those looking to get in touch with nature.
Kit Carson Park is a popular destination for people looking for some peace and quiet. Visitors can take advantage of the peaceful pond, the gorgeous walking pathways, and the picnic sites in this expansive park. Community gatherings, musical performances, and visual art displays contribute to the park’s energetic vibe.
Lake Hodges and Dixon Lake are just two of the many picturesque lakes and reservoirs that surround Escondido. These calm bodies of water are a haven for anyone who enjoy being on the water since they provide chances for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
The adjacent Palomar Mountains are a great attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. Beautiful scenery, trails, and campsites can all be found at Palomar Mountain State Park. The world-famous Palomar Observatory, where you can learn all about the stars, is located there as well.
To Sum it All Up
Escondido is a lovely suburb that offers a diverse and rich culture, a friendly community, a safe place to live, great schools, and a prime location. However, the cost of living is much higher than the national average.
