Mar 21, 2024
So, you’ve decided to move to Escondido, CA. Congratulations! Or, maybe you’re still on the fence, staring at your half-packed boxes and wondering why on earth you decided to do this to yourself. Either way, take a deep breath. This guide is designed for those who want to relocate with minimal stress and effort.
Escondido, which means “hidden” in Spanish, is no longer the best-kept secret of San Diego County. Located about 30 miles northeast of downtown San Diego, Escondido is a thriving city that strikes a balance between suburban comfort, rural charm, and easy accessibility. Whether you’re escaping sky-high coastal housing prices or just looking for a laid-back community with a solid mix of culture, outdoor adventure, and affordability, this city has got you covered.
Let’s understand how you can make this move as effortless as possible.
If you’re looking for a place with year-round sunshine, a strong community feel, and real estate prices that don’t make you want to weep, Escondido is calling your name.
The median home price here is around $815,000, significantly lower than coastal San Diego properties. You’ll find spacious lots with room for a pool, garden, or backyard BBQ setup—something that’s hard to come by closer to the beach.
Hiking at Daley Ranch? Kayaking at Dixon Lake? Wine tasting at a family-owned vineyard? Escondido lets you do it all within a short drive, so you don’t need to plan your weekends around traffic.
Escondido boasts 10 museums, a thriving arts scene, and the California Center for the Arts, where concerts, exhibits, and performances keep things lively year-round.
Want to hit the beach? Downtown San Diego is a 30-minute drive away. Need a quick getaway? The Palomar Mountain Range is just around the corner.
In short, Escondido gives you that sweet, sweet balance between suburban peace and urban excitement. Now, let’s get you there with as little effort as possible.
Packing is the worst part of moving. We get it. That’s why we’re keeping it simple.
When you pick something up, make a decision:
No “maybe” piles. “Maybe” leads to procrastination, and procrastination leads to panic packing.
Don’t skimp on this. Hire San Diego long-distance movers who understand the quirks of Escondido’s historic districts (with their narrow streets) and hillside homes.
Save yourself the headache by setting up San Diego Gas and Electric, Escondido Water, and your internet provider online before you move.
Escondido’s neighborhoods are as diverse as its residents, offering a range of options whether you’re looking for historic charm, suburban convenience, or outdoor accessibility. Here’s a deeper dive into some of the best spots to settle down:
Each neighborhood in Escondido offers something unique, so take your time exploring and choosing the best fit for your lifestyle!
Living in Escondido offers a more affordable alternative to coastal San Diego, but it still carries California’s signature cost premium. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect financially:
| Expense Category | Escondido, CA | National Average |
| Median Home Price | $815,000 | $419,000 |
| Average Rent | $2,338/month | $1,700/month |
| Gas Prices | $4.68/gallon | $3.80/gallon |
| Sales Tax | 7.75% | – |
| Healthcare Costs | 4% above nat’l avg | Baseline |
Healthcare costs: 4% above the national average, with a standard doctor’s visit costing around $125–$200 without insurance
To make life more manageable, follow the 50/30/20 budgeting rule:
While Escondido’s cost of living is on the higher side, it remains an attractive option within Southern California. It offers strong community amenities, a rich cultural scene, and a slightly more affordable lifestyle compared to the coastal cities.
Escondido’s job market is solid, especially in these industries:
The city has seen job growth of 17.3% in recent years, and employment prospects continue to rise with new business developments. The average salary in Escondido is about $72,000/year, with a median household income of $95,052—nearly equivalent to California’s statewide median.
For job seekers, digital resources like Indeed, LinkedIn, and the City of Escondido’s official website list current openings, while networking events hosted by the Escondido Chamber of Commerce provide valuable local connections.
If you’re a remote worker, Escondido offers the perfect setup—affordable housing, reliable internet providers, and plenty of coffee shops and coworking spaces where you can stay productive while enjoying a change of scenery.
Getting around Escondido is refreshingly simple compared to some other Southern California cities. Whether you prefer driving, public transportation, biking, or walking, you’ll find plenty of options to make your commute or daily errands hassle-free.
Interstate 15 and State Route 78 serve as the city’s main arteries, making it easy to access nearby cities like San Diego, Oceanside, and Temecula. Rush hour traffic can slow things down a bit, especially near the freeway interchanges, but overall, Escondido offers a smoother driving experience than many neighboring urban areas. Parking is generally available and free in most places, including shopping centers, parks, and even downtown Escondido.
If you’d rather let someone else do the driving, Escondido has solid public transit options. The Sprinter Light Rail is a convenient east-west rail line that connects Escondido to Oceanside, making beach trips or commutes to coastal areas easy. The Breeze Bus system, operated by the North County Transit District, provides additional routes throughout the city and to nearby areas. Riders can use the PRONTO app for easy fare payment and real-time schedule updates.
Escondido is surprisingly walkable, particularly in areas like downtown and the Old Escondido Historic District. Many neighborhoods have well-maintained sidewalks, making it easy to take a stroll to nearby parks, cafes, and markets. If cycling is more your speed, Escondido has bike-friendly routes, and there are multiple scenic trails for both recreational and commuter bikers, including those in Daley Ranch and around Lake Hodges.
For those who don’t own a car but need one occasionally, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout Escondido. There are also car rental locations, including Enterprise and Hertz, for longer trips or special occasions.
Let’s be honest—making new friends as an adult is tough. But Escondido makes it easier:
If sweating in a gym isn’t your thing, Escondido offers plenty of ways to stay active without it feeling like exercise. The city is a haven for outdoor lovers, boasting diverse landscapes that invite adventure, leisure, and exploration.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, a peaceful kayak ride, or an invigorating hike, Escondido makes it easy to stay active without ever stepping foot in a gym.
Relocating doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right strategy, you can settle into Escondido with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment.
So, take the lazy man’s approach:
And before you know it, you’ll be sipping wine at BK Cellars, hiking Daley Ranch, and soaking up the Escondido sunshine—without breaking a sweat. Welcome home!
Moving to Escondido doesn’t have to be a hassle — Oakley Relocation is here to make your transition to Escondido smooth and effortless. With expert packing, efficient transportation, and a professional moving team that knows Escondido inside and out, you can sit back and relax while we handle the heavy lifting. Contact us today for a hassle-free moving experience!
