EAST COUNTY SAN DIEGO HOMES FOR SALE

This guide to East County San Diego homes for sale is intended to help those who are considering a move to the area.

Read on to:

  • Search for single-family homes, condos and townhouses.
  • Learn about the neighborhoods.
  • Find out about the public and private schools.
  • Locate the best parks, trails, lakes and golf courses.

 

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Where is East County San Diego Located?

East County San Diego begins approximately 8 miles east of Downtown San Diego and 13 miles east of the Pacific Ocean.

It extends as far north as the San Vicente Reservoir, as far east as Alpine, as far south as Jamul and as far west as Lemon Grove.

East County San Diego Neighborhoods

AlpineBostoniaCasa De OroCrest
El CajonGranite HillsLa MesaLa Presa
LakesideLemon GroveMount HelixRancho San Diego
SanteeSpring Valley

Living In East County San Diego

There used to be a distinct difference between the city of San Diego compared to the East County.

It was fairly obvious on your drive when things transitioned to East County’s rural roots.

However, with years of growth, that has changed. Now it’s a much longer drive east into the county before its rural nature becomes as obvious, as it once did.

The neighborhoods and communities of East County still retain their inherent quaint, country (country for San Diego) charm. It’s just that in many ways, they’ve grown up.

The More Expensive Neighborhoods In East County San Diego

Mount Helix

Mount Helix is nestled on a hill in La Mesa. It is often grouped with Casa de Oro, by the city government for planning purposes, but there is a distinct difference in the price and exclusivity between the two.

Because its elevation reaches more than 1,300 feet, Mount Helix hillside homes can offer views in every direction, some extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

Singing Hills and East Rancho San Diego

Singing Hills is located in El Cajon, off of Dehesa Road. It is situated in and around three golf courses.

Properties are typically on large lots and the views seem to go on forever across the valley.

Alpine

Alpine is located in the east of East County San Diego. Interstate 8 bisects the town.

It is mostly surrounded by the Cleveland National Forest as well as the Sycuan and Viejas Reservations and the rural parts of El Cajon.

Alpine is a mountian town with an elevation of approximately 1,800 feet.

With lakefront homes, homes with endless views and homes with direct access to horse and hiking trails, it’s easy to understand why Alpine’s residents don’t tend to leave the community.

Granite Hills

Granite Hills is located adjacent to Singing Hills. Homes can be found starting at $500,000, but many reach into the $800,000’s.

Mid-Range Priced Neighborhoods In East County San Diego

Fletcher Hills

Fletcher Hills is located in parts of both La Mesa and El Cajon.

Not far from Interstate 8, homes in Fletcher Hills offer some excellent views. The homes, built between the 1950’s and 1970’s, range in price from approximately $500,000 to $700,000.

Rancho San Diego

Rancho San Diego is located immediately north of Jamacha and south of Mount Helix.

Homes in the southwestern part of the community offer a good, mid-range price. Home prices range from approximately $450,000 to $650,000.

Value Priced Neighborhoods In East County San Diego

Lemon Grove

Lemon Grove is located just south of Route 94 and just west of Route 125, with Spring Valley to its east. It is particularly known for the giant lemon sculpture that is located in its downtown area.

The San Diego Trolley makes a stop in town, allowing for easy transportation into San Diego.

This charming little town even offers some views of the Pacific Ocean from its hillside areas. Homes prices range from approximately $300,000 to $600,000.

Spring Valley / La Presa

Located in the “triangle”, between Routes 94, 125 and 54, the neighborhoods of Spring Valley and La Presa offer a good value to home buyers who need their purchase price to be on the lower side.

Because there are hillsides in the area, there are opportunites for excellent views out to Sweetwater Reservoir and beyond.

The vast majority of home prices range from approximately $250,000 to $600,000.

Search Spring Valley Homes For Sale Search La Presa Homes For Sale

Getting Better With Time Neighborhoods In East County San Diego

Santee

To get to most towns in East County San Diego, typically Interstate 8 plays a part in the drive. But Santee has something particularly special going for it in that it can be easily accessed by Route 52.

This means that residents of Santee get to live among the country/rural charm of the East County, yet be able to hit the surf in La Jolla in about 25 minutes. This is a big thing.

Santee used to seem a bit isolated, but not any longer.

There’s even a Trolley stop in the town now, easily allowing residents the opportunity to reach San Diego without even havng to turn on their ignition.

Beyond the accessibility improvements, Santee continues to grow and improve and companies and developers are taking note.

Home prices in Santee range from approximately $300,000 to $950,000.

Lakeside

Lakeside is located east of Santee and west of Alpine and occupies the area between Interstate 8 and Route 67.

It is considered a country and rodeo town.

Because of its rural setting, the number of ranches and horse ownership, as well as its large rodeo venue, the description is apt.

Lakeside is home to 3 reservoirs (Lake Jennings, San Vicente and El Capitan) so there are ample fishing, boating and waterskiing opportunities.

There also are a number of parks, trails and horseback riding there for the taking. And for those who like casino resorts, Lakeside is in close proximity.

Home prices in Lakeside range from approximately $300,000 to $1 million dollars

Things To Do Outdoors In East County San Diego

Ok, so the sun is out (as usual) and the sky is clear (almost always), what is there to do outside in the East County of San Diego?

Plenty.

East County is full of lakes, mountians and canyons. This means that the opportunties for boating, fishing, waterskiing and tubing are practically at your doorstep.

It also means that you better find a new pair of athletic shoes and boots, as well as check the tires of your mountain bike, since there are so many miles (and miles and miles) of trails to discover and enjoy.

And when you want to slow it down a bit, there’s always a nice, lush, green golf course in proximity just waiting to challenge you.

The Best Hiking and Trails In East County San Diego

El Capitan

El Capitan is located within the El Capitan Open Space Preserve, which provides 2,619 acres. The trailhead is located within the Lakeside neighborhood.

The summit of “El Cap” is 3,650 feet and it offers adventures for those of varying hiking ability.

Goodan Ranch / Sycamore Canyon Preserve

More than 10 miles of trails with viewpoints, rest areas and picnic tables are offered.
A staging area is located in Lakeside.

Louis Stelzer County Park

The Louis Stelzer County Park is comprised of 420 acres of open space. Amenities include picnic facilities, BBQ’s, multi-use trails and restrooms. The park is located in Lakeside.

Mission Trails Regional Park

Also accessible to those in Central San Diego, Mission Trails, at 7,220 acres, is one of the largest urban parks in the United States!

In adition to its 60 miles of trails, the park also includes the uber popular Cowles Mountain and Lake Murray.

Mt. Helix Park

It is 1,370 feet to the peak. There also is a 1/2 mile trail loop. And visitors are rewarded with 360 degree views all the way to the ocean. The park is located in, yes, you guessed it, Mt. Helix.

Oakoasis Preserve

400 acres of space includes a 2.5 mile trail. Add the beauty of stargazing and sweeping views. Located in Lakeside.

Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve

A 190 acre park with 7 recycled water lakes.
The park is stocked with sport fish year-round.

In addition to fishing, amenities include camping, cabin rentals, boating, playgrounds, walking trails and approximately 230 bird species. All of this is located in Santee.

The Best Lakes and Reservoirs In East County San Diego

Barrett Reservoir

Access granted by reservation only.
Boats, fishing, kayaks and float tubes are allowed. Located in Jamul (15 mi from Rancho San Diego).

El Capitan Reservoir

The second largest water capacity in San Diego County. Fishing, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, etc. Located in Lakeside.

Murray Reservoir

The fun includes fishing, boats, canoes, kayaks and float tubes. Located in La Mesa.

San Vicente Reservoir

The largest reservoir in San Diego County.
Bring your boats, canoes, rowboats, 3-seater personal watercraft, waterskis, wakeboards float tubes and fishing gear. Located in Lakeside.

Sweetwater Reservoir

This is a 960 acre artificial lake located near Spring Valley and La Presa.

The Best Golf Courses In East County San Diego

Barona Creek Golf Club

An 18-hole, 7,092 yard, championship course designed by Gary Roger Baird. It is located in Lakeside. It’s open to the public.

Carlton Oaks Golf Club

A 18-hole, 7,410 yard, championship course designed by Pete Dye. Phil Mickelson trained here before going out on the tour! It is located in Santee and open to the public.

Cottonwod Golf Club

A 18-hole, 6,736 yard, championship course that has been by the PGA Tour. It is located in Rancho San Diego and is open to the public.

Steele Canyon Golf Club

Three nine-hole, Gary Player designed courses are offered. Located in Jamul (2 mi from Rancho San Diego). Membership required.

Singing Hills Golf Resort

Two 18-hole (6,651 yards and 6,594 yards),  championship courses designed by Ted Robinson and one 18-hole executive course can be found here. Located in El Cajon. Must be a member.

East County San Diego Public Schools

The GreatSchools ranking system is used to determine rankings.

The schools comprising this list are public schools within the East County San Diego area only.

Cajon Valley School District

Includes 26 schools.
13 are ranked average to above average.

Grossmont Union High School District

Includes 12 schools.
10 are ranked average to above average.

La Mesa – Spring Valley School District

Includes 21 schools.
12 are ranked average to above average.

Lakeside Union School District

Includes 1 school that is ranked below average.

Lemon Grove School District

Includes 6 schools.
3 are ranked average to above average.

Santee School District

Includes 9 schools.
All 9 are ranked average to above average.

East County San Diego Private Schools

The following guide to private schools in East County San Diego, is only of those with populations of 100 or more.

Also, even if a school is one mile outside of the area, if it isn’t within the boundaries of East County San Diego, then it isn’t included.

El Cajon

Christian Elementary East School

Grades K-6.

Christian Elementary School

Grades K-6.

Christian Elementary West School

Grades K-6.

Christian Junior / Senior High School

Grades 7-12.

Foothills Christian High School

Grades 9-12.

Foothills Christian Middle School

Grades 6-8.

Foothills Christian School

Grades K-5.

Holy Trinity Elementary School

Grades K-8.

Our Lady of Grace School

Grades K-8.

St. Kieran Catholic School

Grades K-8.

Lakeside

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Grades PK-8.

La Mesa

Christ Luthern School

Grades PK-8.

Mt. Helix Academy

Grades K-8.

St. Martin of Tours Academy

Grades K-8.

Warren Walker School

Grades K-5.

Lemon Grove

Saint John of The Cross Catholic School

Grades K-8.

Spring Valley

Saint Sophia Academy

Grades K-8.

Trinity Christian School

Grades K-8.

East County San Diego Colleges

The following list includes only those colleges that are actually within the East County San Diego area.

El Cajon

Grossmont College

Public, 2 yr.

San Diego Christian College

Private, 4 yr.

Rancho San Diego

Cuyamaca Community College

Public, 2 yr.

East County San Diego Neighborhood Summary

NeighborhoodInformationMedian
Price
YTD
April
2019
Alpine• Population 14k.
• Historic town.
• Mountain biking.
• 91901 zip code.
• Alpine schools.
• Grossmont school
• 3 mi from casino.
• 25 mi Downtown
• 28 mi to beach.
$635,000
Bostonia• Population 15k.
• 92021 zip code.
• Cajon schools.
• Grossmont school
• 7 mi to SDSU.
• 4 mi Sharp Hosp.
• 14 mi Downtown.
• 17 mi to beach.
$482,000
Casa De Oro• Population 12k.
• 91941 zip code.
• La Mesa schools.
• Grossmont school
• 10 mi Downtown.
• 15 mi to beach.
$480,000
Crest• Population 2.6k.
• Rural mtn town.
• Elevation 1,600 ft.
• 92021 zip code.
• Cajon schools.
• Grossmont school
• 17 mi Downtown.
• 21 mi to beach.
$500,000
El Cajon• Population 105k.
• Taylor Guitars.
• 170 store mall.
• 92019 zip code.
• 92020 zip code.
• 92021 zip code.
• Cajon schools.
• Grossmont school
• 7 mi from casino.
• 13 mi Downtown.
• 17 mi to beach.
$475,000
Granite Hills• Population 4k.
• 92019 zip code.
• Cajon schools.
• Grossmont school
• 16 mi Downtown.
• 20 mi to beach.
$620,000
La Mesa• Population 62k.
• 100 years old.
• Quaint village.
• Tree lined streets.
• Small town feel.
• Farmer's Markets.
• 91941 zip code.
• 91942 zip code.
• La Mesa schools.
• Grossmont school
• 1 mi Sharp Hosp
• 1 mi Mission Trls.
• 2.5 mi to SDSU.
• 8 mi Downtown.
• 12 mi to beach.
$527,500
La Presa• Population 36k.
• Developed 1946.
• 91977 zip code.
• La Mesa schools.
• Grossmont school
• 9 mi Downtown.
• 10 mi to beach.
$450,000
Lakeside• Population 22k.
• Rural setting.
• 92040 zip code.
• Lakeside schools.
• Grossmont school
• Lakeside Rodeo.
• 1 mi Lakeside Pk
• Lake Jennings.
• 17 mi Downtown.
• 20 mi to beach.
$507,000
Lemon Grove• Population 28k.
• On Trolley line.
• 91945 zip code.
• Lem Grove school
• Grossmont school
• 3 mi from SDSU.
• 7 mi Downtown.
• 10 mi to beach.
$474,000
Mount Helix• Population 6k.
• 360 degree views.
• Ocean views.
• East County jewel.
• 91941 zip code.
• La Mesa schools.
• Grossmont school
• 1 mi Sharp Hosp.
• 11 mi Downtown.
• 14 mi to beach.
$747,500
Rancho San Diego• Population 21k.
• Rolling Hills.
• Damon Lane Park.
• 2 miles of trails.
• Year round creek.
• Champ golf.
• 92019 zip code.
• Cajon school
• Grossmont school
• 6 mi to casinos.
• 12 mi Downtown.
• 15 mi to beach.
$549,500
Santee• Population 55k.
• Sports complex
• Carlton Oaks Golf.
• Santee Reg Park.
• Microbreweries,
• Large town center.
• Trolley station.
• 92071 zip code.
• Santee schools.
• Grossmont school
• 2 mi Mission Trail.
• 6 mi to SDSU.
• 13 mi Downtown.
• 16 mi to beach.
$487,500
Spring Valley• Population 30k.
• 91978 zip code.
• 91977 zip code.
• La Mesa schools.
• Grossmont school
• 9 mi Downtown.
• 12 mi to beach.
$463,000

Finding The Right East County Home

As a native San Diegan REALTOR® and East County San Diego market expert, I bring a local’s perspective to help you find the exact neighborhood and home that you are looking for.

If I can answer any questions, help you in any way or if you’d like to schedule an appointment to see a home or look around the area, feel free to contact me.

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