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Encinitas, California at sunset, showcasing waterfront homes perched on cliffs and the Pacific Ocean.
Bill Lovejoy

Is Living in Encinitas CA Right for You? 🌷 | ULTIMATE Moving to Encinitas Guide

Last Updated On: 31st March 2025, 06:22 am

Thinking about moving to Encinitas, California? This gorgeous city is situated along the picturesque coastline of San Diego County and is a true gem of Southern California. Known for its coastal beauty, laid-back vibe, and thriving culture scene, Encinitas boasts everything from fabulous beaches to amazing local businesses. As such, Encinitas is a good place to live.

But what is Encinitas known for? The city, whose name means “little oaks” in Spanish, has a rich history dating back to its Spanish and Mexican roots. Today, it’s famous for its surf culture, bustling downtown area, and designation as the “Flower Capital of the World” thanks to its long-standing flower-growing industry. With amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and a climate that allows for year-round outdoor activities, it’s no wonder so many people are living in Encinitas CA.

Whether you’re already a California resident or planning a big move, Encinitas offers residents plenty to get excited about. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about living in Encinitas CA, from the best neighborhoods to the top things to do.

Is Encinitas a Good Place to Live?

Encinitas is a good place to live. Encinitas residents enjoy a thriving arts scene with work from local artists, stunning beaches, and plenty of natural beauty. When living in Encinitas CA, you’ll also enjoy easy access to nearby cities like San Diego and Carlsbad.

Where Is Encinitas California?

What county is Encinitas CA in? Encinitas is in San Diego County and is just 25.6 miles from Downtown San Diego. San Diego County is the southwesternmost county in the 48 contiguous United States and is the eighth-most populous county in the country. When living in Encinitas CA, you’ll be close to other major cities and communities such as Cardiff by the Sea, Solana Beach, and Escondido. Additionally, it is 10.6 miles from Encinitas to Carlsbad.

Most people living in Encinitas CA own a vehicle, but you can use the COASTER trains at Encinitas Station, with service from Oceanside to San Diego. Encinitas traffic can be very congested, especially during rush hour on highways like I-5 N.

Is moving to Encinitas in your future? Let the incredible Encinitas movers at Republic Moving & Storage help you get settled. With our Encinitas moving company by your side, you won’t need to worry about a thing.

Encinitas Population & Demographics

How many people are living in Encinitas CA? The population of Encinitas is 62,007, which is a 4.1% increase over the past decade. Residents living in Encinitas CA are very affluent, with a median household income of $150,471 (higher than the California average of $96,334). Additionally, several notable people have called Encinitas home, including Los Angeles Lakers owner Jerry Buss, professional skateboarder Tony Hawk, and musician Eddie Vedder.

Additional Encinitas Demographics:

  • Sex ratio: 50.3% male, 49.7% female
  • Median age: 42.9
  • Racial & ethnic composition: 79.1% White (73.9% non-Hispanic), 12.1% two or more races, 4.4% Asian, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.2% American Indian, 0.1% Native Hawaiian
  • Foreign-born population: 12.1%
  • Educational attainment: 95.3% high school degree (or higher), 67.1% bachelor’s degree (or higher)

Is Encinitas safe? Living in Encinitas CA is very safe! Here’s a breakdown of the Encinitas crime rate.

  • Overall crime: 1,678 crimes per 100,000 people (41.0% lower than state average and 27.8% lower than national average)
  • Violent crime: 182 crimes per 100,000 people (63.6% lower than state average and 50.8% lower than national average)
  • Property crime: 1,496 crimes per 100,000 people (36.2% lower than state average and 23.5% lower than national average)

When living in Encinitas CA, you’ll be served by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (North Coastal Station).

Encinitas Cost of Living

Is Encinitas expensive? Living in Encinitas CA is very expensive, and the city has a cost of living index of 229. This means that living in Encinitas CA is 129% more expensive than the national average of 100. This is also 74.1% more expensive than the San Diego Cost of Living Index of 154.9.

According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Encinitas CA would need to earn $12,642 per month ($151,707 per year) to live comfortably in the city.

Typical Encinitas Living Expenses

  • Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $17.50
  • Cappuccino: $5.00
  • Gallon of milk: $4.55
  • Carton of eggs: $5.17
  • Gallon of gas: $4.75
  • Movie ticket: $18.00
  • Average Encinitas utilities per month: $100.00

Source: Numbeo

Are you interested in Encinitas real estate? According to Redfin, the average home price in Encinitas CA is $1.74 million, up 22.3% compared to last year. If you’re more interested in Encinitas rentals when living in Encinitas CA, you’ll find plenty of great options. According to RentCafe, the average rent in Encinitas is $2,853 per month.

 

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Neighborhoods in Encinitas | Where to Live in Encinitas CA

Before moving to Encinitas, you’ll want to find the perfect spot to settle down. Here are a few of the most popular neighborhoods in the area.

Downtown Encinitas | Busy Area Popular Among Young Professionals

Downtown Encinitas is a walkable neighborhood popular among young professionals and those who prefer attractions within walking distance. This is also where you’ll find most of the apartments in Encinitas.

Leucadia | Beachside Community With Gated Properties

If you are living in Encinitas CA, and want to be by the ocean, Leucadia is the place to be. This area is known for its private homes and secluded beaches, making it perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Cardiff-by-the-Sea | Gorgeous Beach Community

Cardiff-by-the-Sea is a beach community within Encinitas. The average home price here is $2.27 million, according to Redfin, with fabulous beachfront homes and plenty of options for shopping and dining.

Encinitas Weather & Climate

One of the best parts about living in Encinitas CA is the gorgeous weather. The Encinitas climate is characterized as Mediterranean, with an average daily high Encinitas temperature of 72ºF. With an average annual rainfall of only 12 inches, Encinitas is perfect for outdoor activities all year round. Encinitas ocean water temperatures average 60ºF in the winter, 64ºF in the spring, 70ºF in the summer, and 66ºF in the fall.

Things to Do in Encinitas CA

When living in Encinitas CA, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you’re shopping at Encinitas Village Shopping Center or enjoying outdoor activities at Cottonwood Creek Park or Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas has it all. Here are a few fun things to do in Encinitas.

San Diego Botanic Garden

The San Diego Botanic Garden is a must-see when living in Encinitas CA. This large botanical garden offers over four miles of trails with flowers, trees, and palms.

300 Quail Gardens Drive at, Ecke Ranch Rd, Encinitas, CA 92024, (760) 436-3036

Moonlight State Beach

 

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Moonlight State Beach is one of the best things to do in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, volleyball, swimming, and more.

West of I-5 on Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024, (760) 633-2740

Encinitas Community Park

Encinitas Community Park is one of the best things to do in Encinitas with kids. Here, you’ll find 44 acres full of sports fields, skate parks, and green space.

425 Santa Fe Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024, (760) 633-2740

Additional Encinitas Attractions

Still aren’t sure what to do in Encinitas? Check out the city calendar to find out about local events going on in the area.

Encinitas Restaurants

After moving to Encinitas, you’ll have plenty of restaurants to check out. These are just a few of the best places to eat in Encinitas.

Le Papagayo

When living in Encinitas CA, make sure you stop by Le Papagayo for delicious Mediterranean and Latin food on the outdoor patio.

1002 N Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024, (760) 944-8252

Union Kitchen and Tap Encinitas

Often considered one of the best bars in Encinitas, Union Kitchen offers upscale American dishes as well as plenty of beers on tap.

1108 S Coast Hwy 101, Encinitas, CA 92024, (760) 230-2337

The Crack Shack

The Crack Shack is one of the best restaurants in Encinitas and specializes in chicken dishes, with yummy menu items like chicken sandwiches and grilled chicken bowls.

407 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024, (877) 230-1871

Encinitas Jobs

Will you be in need of a new job when living in Encinitas CA? Downtown Encinitas is the economic hub of the city, with the Encinitas 101 MainStreet Association keeping the downtown area economically viable. The area is home to dozens of local shops and businesses, offering plenty of job opportunities.

Additionally, those living in Encinitas CA can commute to Downtown San Diego, where you’ll find top employers like Scripps Health, Qualcomm, and Sempra.

If you’re looking for jobs when living in Encinitas CA, then check out the city job board or search for “jobs in Encinitas” on Indeed.

Schools in Encinitas

If you’re moving to Encinitas with children, then you’ll want to know more about the schools in the area. Students living in Encinitas CA are served by more than one Encinitas school district. The Cardiff School District, Encinitas Union School District, and the San Dieguito Union High School District all serve students in the area.

In addition to amazing public high schools in Encinitas such as San Dieguito Academy and Sunset High School, there are also a few well-known private schools in Encinitas. Pacific Academy focuses on preparing students for college, while The Grauer School offers several diverse programs for children in grades 7 through 12.

 

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You’ll also find higher education options in the area at places like the California Institute for Human Science and St. Katherine University. You can also explore San Diego State University, just a short drive away.

When living in Encinitas CA, you can enjoy access to the Encinitas Library.

Encinitas California Statistics & Information

  • Encinitas county: San Diego County
  • Encinitas area: 20.16 square miles
  • Encinitas zip code: 92007, 92023, 92024
  • Encinitas area code: 442, 760
  • Encinitas elevation: 82 feet
  • Encinitas time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC -8 and -7)
  • Closest airport to Encinitas: San Diego International Airport (SAN), 25.3 miles away

Map of Encinitas CA

Is Living in Encinitas CA Right for You?

There are plenty of reasons to move to Encinitas, and living in Encinitas CA means enjoying incredible weather, meeting friendly neighborhoods, and indulging in a laid-back lifestyle. If moving to Encinitas is in your future, then give the experts at Republic Moving & Storage a call today! Our Encinitas movers will make your life easier before, during, and after moving day. Give our team a call at (619) 591-0079 to get started with a free quote.

Bill Lovejoy
Bill Lovejoy is the president of Republic Moving and Storage. Purchasing the assets of Republic Relocations in May 2008. In 2008, Republic did $700K of business and today is over $15 Million. Republic was named AMSA’s 2010 Agent of the Year for Service Excellence after only two years in business. Bill is proud that he grew up doing every facet of the business from a local mover, over the road driver, salesperson, operations manager, and general manager. (and just about everything else in between) Before purchasing Republic, Bill was with Bekins Moving and Storage where he served as a Senior Vice President and was a partner. He was responsible for three HHG companies as well as two logistics companies. A proud Father of six children, and a lovely wife, Carol, Bill constantly works to keep a balance between work and family Life. Bills “stress relieving” hobbies include racket ball, basketball, tennis, and golf.
Read more by Bill Lovejoy

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