Pondering a move to Escondido CA? Nestled in San Diego County’s North County region, this scenic city is just 30 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, 15 miles from the sea, and 40 miles from the Mexican border. Essentially, it’s comprised of a shallow valley overlooked by rocky hills. It was incorporated in 1888, and has the distinction of being one of the oldest cities in San Diego County.
Its name means “hidden” in Spanish, but these days, Escondido is anything but hidden. With a population of 152,000, this landlocked city is chock full of things to do and see. From a vibrant downtown and lots of parks to famous residents and incredible shopping, here are six reasons why Escondido is a great place to live in 2020.
1. Camping at Dixon Lake
While landlocked from the Pacific Ocean, it is quite close to a large body of water: Dixon Lake. Sitting in the foothills to the north of the city, Dixon Lake supplies much of Escondido’s water, so you can’t exactly swim or operate private watercraft. However, the lake is surrounded by 45 camp sites, with fishing allowed with a permit. Well stocked with bass, trout, and catfish, Dixon Lake is a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. And if you prefer to walk, take a hike on one of the many surrounding trails ringing the lake.
2. California Center for the Arts
The California Center for the Arts is worth frequent visits. This performing arts center features both a concert hall and a theatre, hosting many different programs throughout the year, including classes and workshops. Here, you’ll find a contemporary art museum, banquet facilities, and dance studios, and it’s known as a jewel of the city.
3. Competitive Real Estate Market
The combination of great schools, a close location to San Diego, and plenty of recreational activities means Escondido has a lively, competitive real estate market. Home prices have been pretty steady over the past couple of years, with properties appearing on the market getting scooped up very quickly. This means your home will retain its value while you get all the advantages associated with living there.
4. Daley Ranch
Daley Ranch brings a lot of rich history to the area. It’s now a nature preserve spanning more than 3,000 acres, initially inhabited by many Native American tribes, including the Kumeyaay and Luiseno. The legacy that has been left behind was discovered by archaeologists, and the ranch earned its name from settler Robert Daley, who came on the scene long after the Native Americans left the area. Daley moved there in 1869, and in short order received land claims from the government. That’s when he transformed the land into a dairy farm and a horse ranch. He died in 1916, and when the latest owner’s lease on the land expired in 1996, the city bought the land and turned it into a hiking path and nature preserve.
5. Old Escondido Historic District in Downtown
Many Southern California cities retain some of their early charm as evidenced in their downtown historic districts. Escondido is no different. Old Escondido showcases turn of the century houses in a variety of architectural styles, from Victorians to Craftsman Bungalows. There are also plenty of shops, art galleries, and locally-owned restaurants, not to mention historical walking tours that can whisk you back in time. There’s no doubt this area has something for everyone.
6. Shopping Paradise
Shoppers love Escondido because there are so many stores to wander in and out of. There are small boutiques in Old Escondido and on Grand Avenue selling used books, clothing, antiques, gifts, trinkets, furnishings, and more. If you like the nationwide chains, you’ll find those in the Westfield North County Mall. In addition, there are many open-air markets and farmer’s markets around all year round. The Westfield North County Mall is where you want to go if you’re looking for contemporary shopping, highlighted by department store staples, seasonal events and restaurants on the outskirts of the mall and within the food court.
If you’re intrigued as to what Escondido can offer you and your family, you won’t have any challenges moving and living here in 2020.
Contact Best Fit Movers
When you’re looking to move to Escondido, Best Fit Movers can get you there quickly and affordably. Get a free quote when you contact us today.
