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College West, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
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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.

College West Demographics

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

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

College West neighborhood crime 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

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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 Home Prices 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.
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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.
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Food & Drink

Olive Oil Cafe
Fast Food
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Juice It Up!
Fast Food
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Groceries

Trader Joe's
Grocery Store
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Aztec Market
Grocery Store
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Parks

SDSU Rugby Pitch (ENS 700)
Park
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Campanile Park
Park
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Shops

Aztec Market
Convenience Store
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Aztec Market & Convenience Store
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

SDSU Transit Center
Transit Station
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Grantville
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

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

Student Health Services
Doctor
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Dentist
Dentist
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Safety

S.D.S.U. Police Department
Police
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San Diego City Fire Station 10
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Stein Education Center
6145 Decena Dr, San Diego, CA
High School 2 - 12 School Score
Hoover High
4474 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Thrive Public
4260 54Th St., San Diego, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Language Academy
4961 64Th St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Iftin Charter
5465 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Hardy Elementary
5420 Montezuma Rd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Hearst Elementary
6230 Del Cerro Blvd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 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.