San Diego County's 2025 real estate market is tracking strong, driven by its diverse economy (defense, biotech, tourism), year-round weather, and relative affordability compared to LA County. I've appraised property in San Diego, and it's a sophisticated, stable market with distinct dynamics from Orange County.
San Diego's Market Profile
San Diego County offers:
- Large metro area (3+ million people)
- Diverse neighborhoods (urban San Diego, suburbs, beach communities)
- Strong job market (defense, biotech, tourism)
- Year-round good weather
- More affordable than LA County in many areas
It's a complete market, not just coastal or inland.
2025 San Diego Activity
San Diego is tracking similar to Orange County in early 2025.
Rate cuts are activating buyer demand. Mortgage rates at 6.3% are pulling buyers.
But San Diego has less investor activity than Orange County. It's more owner-occupant focused.
Regional Pricing
San Diego coastal (La Jolla, Del Mar, Coronado): Premium pricing, similar to Orange County coast.
Inland San Diego (Rancho Bernardo, Carmel Mountain, Escondido): More affordable, good inventory, attracting investors and families.
The diversity is an advantage. Multiple buyer bases.
What I'm Seeing
Appraisals are coming in aligned with sales prices. Market is rational.
Days on market are shorter than winter baseline. Seasonal activity is heating up.
No regional weakness. All areas moving at different paces, but all moving.
Outlook
If rate cuts continue through 2025, San Diego will benefit.
It's not a speculative market. It's a fundamentals-driven market.
Good schools, good jobs, good weather, good affordability (compared to LA).
San Diego should see steady growth through 2025.
And that's healthy.