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Morena, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Morena is a vibrant neighborhood nestled in the northwestern part of San Diego, offering a unique blend of urban convenience and laid-back charm. Known for its diverse community and welcoming atmosphere, Morena is a fantastic choice for those moving to the area who want to experience a balance between city life and residential comfort. The neighborhood boasts an array of local eateries and coffee shops where residents often gather, creating a strong sense of community. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, or retiree, Morena's friendly vibe and walkable streets make it easy to feel right at home.

One of Morena’s standout attractions is its proximity to the beautiful Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park filled with gardens, museums, and cultural institutions. This makes it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for weekend activities. In addition to Balboa Park, the neighborhood benefits from nearby recreational areas like Mission Bay, perfect for water sports and picnics. Residents also appreciate the Morena Boulevard corridor, which features a mix of local shops, restaurants, and essential services. For those who enjoy exploring local markets and community events, Morena offers plenty of opportunities throughout the year to connect with neighbors and support local vendors.

For commuters or anyone who enjoys the buzz of downtown city life, Morena is conveniently located just a short drive or public transit ride away from Downtown San Diego. This accessibility means you can easily enjoy the vibrant nightlife, shopping districts, and entertainment venues downtown while retreating to the quieter, more relaxed environment of Morena when the day is done. With its combination of convenient access, community spirit, and attractive nearby parks, Morena stands out as a wonderful neighborhood to call home in the northwestern part of San Diego.

Community Snapshot

Population 10,569
Density (People/sqml.) 3,583
Median Age 34.9
Married Couples
32%
32% of the population of Morena aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
14%
14% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 32% of the Morena 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 14% 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

Morena neighborhood age breakdown chart

Morena 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 10,569, the number of residents who reside in Morena 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.

Morena has a population density of 3,583, 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 35, 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 Morena

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Morena neighborhood age breakdown chart

Morena Crime Map

The Morena 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 $679,000
Median Rent $2,345
People/Household 2.0

Home Price Breakdown

Morena neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 51% Own 49%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 54% After 2010 46%

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 Morena, home prices come in around $679,000, 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 Morena 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 $2,345, rental rates in Morena 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

Aromas
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Sharetea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Shiley Theater
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Junipero Serra Museum
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Domino's
Fast Food
min.
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Presidio Market Liquor
Alcohol
min.
min.

Groceries

Stehly Farms Market
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Ralphs
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Garden of the Sky
Park
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Garden of the Sea
Park
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Shops

The Torrero Store
Books
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7-Eleven
Convenience Store
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Morena/Linda Vista
Transit Station
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Tecolote Road
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

San Diego County Psychiatric Hospital
Hospital
min.
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
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Health Care

Student Health Center
Doctor
min.
min.
Intricate Mind Institute
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

USD Public Safety
Police
min.
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San Diego City Fire Station 25
Fire Station
min.
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Empower Charter
2230 E. Jewett St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
School Of The Madeleine
1875 Illion St, San Diego, CA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Hope Infant-Toddler Special Education
6401 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA
Elementary School M - M School Score
Twain High
6402 Linda Vista Rd., San Diego, CA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Carson Elementary
6905 Kramer St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Urban Corps Of San Diego County Charter
3127 Jefferson St., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Longfellow K-8
5055 July St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Morena. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in Morena can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $53,722
Household Income $94,133
Unemployment 1.8%

Income Breakdown

Morena Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Morena, median household incomes average $94,133, 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 strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Morena, the unemployment rate is just 2%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Morena is known for its proximity to beautiful outdoor spaces such as the Tecolote Canyon Natural Park, which offers scenic hiking trails and wildlife viewing. The neighborhood also benefits from nearby attractions like Mission Bay Park and SeaWorld San Diego, providing plenty of recreational opportunities. Additionally, Morena has a growing number of local eateries and cafes, contributing to its small but vibrant local scene.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Morena is conveniently located near major highways such as Interstate 5 (I-5) and Interstate 8 (I-8), providing easy access to other parts of San Diego and beyond. Public transit is accessible, with several bus routes servicing the area, and the Morena/Linda Vista trolley station on the San Diego Trolley Blue Line is nearby, making commuting to Downtown San Diego and other neighborhoods straightforward.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

While Morena itself is largely residential and modern, it is close to historical areas such as Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which is just a short drive away. Within Morena, the Tecolote Canyon Natural Park serves as a natural landmark offering a glimpse into the region's native landscape and history. The nearby Mission Bay area also holds historical significance tied to San Diego's coastal development.

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