San Diego Photo

College West, 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 College West in San Diego, you’re in for a treat! This vibrant neighborhood blends a youthful energy with a strong sense of community, making it a popular spot for students and young professionals alike. College West is known for its proximity to San Diego State University, which adds a lively, academic vibe to the area. Residents enjoy a mix of housing options, from modern apartments to cozy single-family homes, perfect for those looking to settle down or rent near campus. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

One of the standout attractions in College West is the SDSU campus itself, which hosts a variety of cultural events, sports games, and performances throughout the year. Nearby, you’ll find the lively College Avenue, filled with local eateries, coffee shops, and boutique stores that cater to diverse tastes. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine or a trendy café to study in, this neighborhood’s dining scene has something for everyone. For fitness enthusiasts, the nearby Aztec Recreation Center offers excellent facilities, including a gym and swimming pool, making it easy to stay active without straying far from home.

While College West feels comfortably tucked away from the hustle and bustle, it’s still conveniently close to Downtown San Diego—just about a 15 to 20-minute drive depending on traffic. This means you can easily enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, waterfront attractions, and cultural venues without sacrificing the quieter, community-centered feel of your neighborhood. Whether you’re commuting for work or heading out for a weekend adventure, College West offers the perfect balance of convenience and charm. For those relocating, this neighborhood’s welcoming atmosphere and ample amenities make it a fantastic choice to call home.

Community Snapshot

Population 10,829
Density (People/sqml.) 6,155
Median Age 30.8
Married Couples
32%
32% of the population of College West aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
19%
19% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 32% of the College West population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 19% 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

College West neighborhood age breakdown chart

College West 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 10,829, the number of residents who reside in College West 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.

Boasting a population density of 6,155, College West is more densely populated than many other San Diego neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With a lower-than-average age of 31, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

Crime in College West

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

College West neighborhood age breakdown chart

College West Crime Map

The College West crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $778,720
Median Rent $2,052
People/Household 2.8

Home Price Breakdown

College West neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 59% Own 41%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 51% After 2010 49%

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 College West, home prices come in around $778,720, 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 College West 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 $2,052, rental rates in College West 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

BCB Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
BCB Coffee Company
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

SDSU Open Air Theater
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Historical Archaeoloyg and Maya Research (HAMR) Lab
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Olive Oil Cafe
Fast Food
min.
min.
Juice It Up!
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Trader Joe's
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Aztec Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

SDSU Rugby Pitch (ENS 700)
Park
min.
min.
Campanile Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Aztec Market
Convenience Store
min.
min.
Aztec Market & Convenience Store
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
min.
min.
Bus Stop
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

SDSU Transit Center
Transit Station
min.
min.
Grantville
Transit Station
min.
min.

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Family Health Centers of San Diego City Heights
Clinic
min.
min.
Family Health Centers of San Diego, City Heights
Clinic
min.
min.

Health Care

Student Health Services
Doctor
min.
min.
Dentist
Dentist
min.
min.

Safety

S.D.S.U. Police Department
Police
min.
min.
San Diego City Fire Station 10
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Thrive Public
4260 54Th St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School M - M School Score
Diego Hills Central Public Charter
4585 College Ave., San Diego, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Thrive Public
4260 54Th St., San Diego, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Crawford High
4191 Colts Way, San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Hearst Elementary
6230 Del Cerro Blvd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Iftin Charter
5465 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Hoover High
4474 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in College West combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in College West can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $40,424
Household Income $97,347
Unemployment 5.4%

Income Breakdown

College West 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 College West, median household incomes average $97,347, 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 can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In College West, the unemployment rate is 5%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the social scene like?

College West boasts a vibrant social scene largely influenced by its proximity to San Diego State University. The area has numerous cafes, such as the popular Cafe 21, and casual eateries like The Habit Burger Grill, where students and locals alike gather. Additionally, there are several pubs and music venues nearby on El Cajon Boulevard, offering live entertainment and a lively atmosphere especially on weekends.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

While College West is primarily a residential neighborhood, it is close to notable landmarks such as the iconic Hepner Hall on the San Diego State University campus. The campus itself features historic Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, which is a significant cultural attraction. Nearby, the Mission Valley and Balboa Park offer additional historical and cultural landmarks within a short drive.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, College West benefits from excellent connectivity with major highways such as Interstate 8, which runs just south of the neighborhood, providing easy access to Downtown San Diego and other parts of the city. Additionally, the area is served by several San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus lines, making public transit a convenient option for commuting to campus or downtown.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 54 88 89 34 38 45 30
Unlock to see 75 43 48 52 77 40 63 76
Unlock to see 68 76 81 56 76 79 90 49
College West Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 70 56 41 69 68 80 30
Unlock to see 36 31 60 62 53 37 81 68
Unlock to see 25 52 75 56 79 54 56 43

Other Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA