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Rancho Bernardo, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Rancho Bernardo is a charming and welcoming neighborhood in the northwestern part of San Diego, perfect for those looking for a balanced mix of suburban tranquility and modern amenities. Known for its beautiful rolling hills and scenic views, this community offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Families and professionals alike appreciate the quiet streets, well-maintained parks, and top-rated schools that make Rancho Bernardo a desirable place to call home. Whether you're into outdoor activities or prefer relaxing weekends, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails here provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.

One of the standout attractions in Rancho Bernardo is the Rancho Bernardo Winery, a local gem where residents and visitors can enjoy wine tastings, special events, and live music in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Additionally, the area boasts several golf courses, including the popular Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort, perfect for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Shopping and dining are also a breeze with the Rancho Bernardo Village and Bernardo Heights Marketplace offering a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and essential services. Community events and farmers markets foster a strong neighborhood spirit, making it easy for newcomers to get involved and meet people.

Despite its peaceful suburban vibe, Rancho Bernardo is conveniently located about 25 miles northwest of Downtown San Diego, making it accessible for daily commuters or those who enjoy city outings. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic, which means you can easily enjoy the cultural attractions, restaurants, and nightlife of downtown while returning to a quieter home environment. For families, professionals, or retirees considering a move, Rancho Bernardo offers the perfect blend of comfort, community, and convenience in one of San Diego’s most appealing neighborhoods.

Community Snapshot

Population 45,946
Density (People/sqml.) 1,262
Median Age 46.8
Married Couples
60%
60% of the population of Rancho Bernardo aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In Rancho Bernardo, 26% 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 26% 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

Rancho Bernardo neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Rancho Bernardo demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Rancho Bernardo has a population of 45,946, which is larger than many other San Diego neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

With a lower than average population density of 1,262 people per square mile, Rancho Bernardo offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other San Diego neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 47, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Rancho Bernardo

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Rancho Bernardo neighborhood age breakdown chart

Rancho Bernardo Crime Map

The Rancho Bernardo 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

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Home Price $887,110
Median Rent $2,591
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Rancho Bernardo neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 27% Own 73%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 50% After 2010 50%

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 Rancho Bernardo, home prices come in around $887,110, 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 Rancho Bernardo 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 $2,591, rental rates in Rancho Bernardo 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

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Peet's Coffee
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Food & Drink

Instant Replay
Bar
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Cojitas Taco shop
Fast Food
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Groceries

Edelweiss European Bakery
Bakery
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Barons Market
Grocery Store
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Parks

Bernardo Pines Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Cindy's Nails
Beauty
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Trendcuts
Hairdresser
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bernardo Center Drive & Fairhope Road
Bus Stop
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Bernardo Center Drive & Fairhope Road
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
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Kaiser Permanente Rancho Bernardo Medical Offices
Clinic
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Health Care

Dentistry
Dentist
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Personalized Family Dentistry
Dentist
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Safety

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Abraxas Continuation High
12450 Glenoak Rd., Poway, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Balboa School
130 Woodward Ave, Escondido, CA
High School 3 - 12 School Score
San Pasqual High
3300 Bear Valley Pkwy., Escondido, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Audeo Charter School Iii
200 E. Via Rancho Pkwy., Escondido, CA
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Bernardo Heights Middle
12990 Paseo Lucido, San Diego, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
St Michael School
15542 Pomerado Rd, Poway, CA
Elementary School PK - 8 School Score
Del Norte High
16601 Nighthawk Ln., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Rancho Bernardo. 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 Rancho Bernardo 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

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Income Per Capita $64,909
Household Income $142,268
Unemployment 2.7%

Income Breakdown

Rancho Bernardo 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 Rancho Bernardo, median household incomes average $142,268, 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 Rancho Bernardo, the unemployment rate is just 3%, 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?

Rancho Bernardo is known for its beautiful golf courses, including the Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course and The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe nearby. The area also features the Bernardo Winery, a popular local spot offering wine tastings and events in a charming, historic setting. Additionally, residents enjoy access to numerous parks like the Rancho Bernardo Community Park and hiking trails in the nearby Black Mountain Open Space Park.

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

Yes, Rancho Bernardo hosts several community events such as the annual Rancho Bernardo Art & Wine Festival, which showcases local artists and wineries. The neighborhood also organizes seasonal farmers markets at the Rancho Bernardo Community Park, as well as holiday celebrations like the Christmas tree lighting and parades that bring residents together throughout the year.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Rancho Bernardo benefits from convenient access to major highways including Interstate 15 (I-15), which runs just east of the neighborhood, providing direct routes to downtown San Diego and northern San Diego County. Additionally, State Route 56 connects Rancho Bernardo to coastal areas. While public transit options are available through the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), the area is primarily car-dependent.

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