San Diego Photo

Carmel Mountain, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

If you're considering a move to the north eastern part of San Diego, Carmel Mountain offers a delightful blend of suburban comfort and modern conveniences. This neighborhood is known for its family-friendly vibe, excellent schools, and well-maintained parks, making it a popular choice for those relocating with kids. One of the standout attractions here is the Westfield Carmel Mountain Plaza, a bustling shopping center filled with a mix of popular retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Whether you're in the mood for a casual dinner, catching the latest movie, or simply enjoying a day of shopping, this area offers plenty to keep you entertained close to home.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Carmel Mountain doesn’t disappoint. The area boasts several green spaces and trails, such as the Carmel Mountain Ranch Community Park, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas perfect for weekend family outings. The neighborhood’s commitment to preserving natural beauty also means you’ll find plenty of tree-lined streets and open spaces that contribute to a peaceful, welcoming environment. Additionally, the proximity to larger natural preserves and hiking spots provides easy access to San Diego’s renowned scenic landscapes, ideal for those who love an active lifestyle surrounded by nature.

One of the great benefits of living in Carmel Mountain is its convenient access to Downtown San Diego, which is roughly a 20 to 25-minute drive depending on traffic. This makes it easy for residents to enjoy the vibrant urban culture, dining, and nightlife without sacrificing the tranquility of suburban life. The neighborhood is well-connected by major highways and public transit options, facilitating an easy commute for work or leisure. Overall, Carmel Mountain strikes a wonderful balance for anyone looking to enjoy the best of San Diego’s suburban charm while staying close to the city’s dynamic core.

Community Snapshot

Population 11,560
Density (People/sqml.) 3,467
Median Age 41.0
Married Couples
61%
61% of the population of Carmel Mountain aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
33%
33% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Carmel Mountain, 33% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 33% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Carmel Mountain neighborhood age breakdown chart

Carmel Mountain demographic details provide a clearer picture of what life is like in the neighborhood, offering insight into its character, community, and overall lifestyle. With a population of 11,560, the number of residents who reside in Carmel Mountain is about average in size compared to other San Diego neighborhoods, striking a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. It’s large enough to offer plenty of amenities, activities, and a vibrant local scene, yet small enough to maintain a welcoming community feel and a more relaxed pace of life.

Carmel Mountain has a population density of 3,467, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other San Diego neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 41, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Carmel Mountain

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Carmel Mountain neighborhood age breakdown chart

Carmel Mountain Crime Map

The Carmel Mountain crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $824,993
Median Rent $2,698
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Carmel Mountain neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 37% Own 63%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 55% After 2010 45%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Carmel Mountain, home prices come in around $824,993, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Carmel Mountain can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,698, rental rates in Carmel Mountain are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Cafe Luna
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Kung Fu Tea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Angelika Film Center & Cafe
Cinema
min.
min.
Poway Heritage Museum
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Jalapenos
Fast Food
min.
min.
Taco Bell
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Ralphs
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Sprouts Farmers Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Highland Ranch Park
Park
min.
min.
Playground
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Supercuts
Hairdresser
min.
min.
VIP Nails Spa
Beauty
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Carmel Mountain Road & Streetoney Peak Drive
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Carmel Mountain Road & Rancho Carmel Drive (S)
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Rite Aid
Pharmacy
min.
min.
Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.
Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

San Diego City Fire Station 42
Fire Station
min.
min.
Fire Station 3
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Rancho Bernardo High
13010 Paseo Lucido, San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
The Cambridge School
12855 Black Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA
High School PK - 12 School Score
Shoal Creek Elementary
11775 Shoal Creek Dr., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Mt. Carmel High
9550 Carmel Mountain Rd., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Poway High
15500 Espola Rd., Poway, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Highland Ranch Elementary
14840 Waverley Downs Way, San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Los Penasquitos Elementary
14125 Cuca St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Carmel Mountain. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Carmel Mountain offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $56,944
Household Income $126,452
Unemployment 3.3%

Income Breakdown

Carmel Mountain Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Carmel Mountain, median household incomes average $126,452, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In Carmel Mountain, the unemployment rate sits at around 3%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall lifestyle like?

Carmel Mountain offers a suburban lifestyle with a blend of convenience and tranquility. Residents enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with access to numerous parks like the Carmel Mountain Ranch Community Park, shopping centers such as Carmel Mountain Plaza, and recreational spots. The neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a balance between outdoor activities and modern amenities.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Carmel Mountain is conveniently located near major highways including State Route 56 and Interstate 15, providing easy access to other parts of San Diego and neighboring cities. Public transit options include several MTS bus routes that connect residents to surrounding communities and the greater San Diego area.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Carmel Mountain hosts various community events such as seasonal farmer’s markets, outdoor movie nights at local parks, and holiday celebrations organized by the Carmel Mountain Ranch Community Association. These gatherings foster a strong sense of community and provide opportunities for residents to connect and enjoy neighborhood camaraderie.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 69 75 47 86 49 65 55
Unlock to see 75 65 81 32 76 67 41 59
Unlock to see 68 83 76 58 79 40 90 45
Carmel Mountain Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 36 40 62 83 32 83 52
Unlock to see 36 30 32 40 56 46 76 45
Unlock to see 25 31 59 84 90 64 87 60

Other Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA