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Serra Mesa, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Serra Mesa is a charming and family-friendly neighborhood nestled in the north-central part of San Diego. Known for its welcoming community vibe, it offers a great mix of residential comfort and convenient amenities. If you’re moving to this part of San Diego, you’ll appreciate the variety of parks, local eateries, and shopping centers that make everyday life enjoyable. One of the standout features of Serra Mesa is the beautiful Mission Trails Regional Park nearby, a sprawling natural area perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors. It’s an ideal spot for those who love spending time outside while still being close to urban conveniences.

For families or individuals moving here, the neighborhood’s schools are a big plus. Serra Mesa is served by several well-regarded public schools as well as private options, making it a strong choice for families prioritizing education. Plus, the community is known for its active neighborhood association which often hosts events and activities, helping newcomers feel at home quickly. Residents enjoy easy access to shopping hubs like the Serra Mesa-Kearny Mesa area, where you’ll find diverse dining options ranging from casual cafes to popular local restaurants that bring a little bit of everything to the table.

One of the perks of living in Serra Mesa is its close proximity to Downtown San Diego, which is just about a 15-minute drive away. This makes commuting for work or leisure a breeze, without sacrificing the quieter, suburban feel of the neighborhood. Additionally, Serra Mesa benefits from good public transportation options and nearby freeway access, making it simple to explore other parts of the city or even take day trips to the coast or surrounding attractions. Overall, Serra Mesa offers a balanced lifestyle with its peaceful streets, strong community spirit, and convenient location for those looking to settle in a friendly San Diego neighborhood.

Serra Mesa Demographics

Population 28,474
Density (People/sqml.) 4,220
Median Age 36.4
Married Couples
46%
46% of the population of Serra Mesa aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
25%
25% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

25% of the Serra Mesa population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 25% 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

Serra Mesa neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Serra Mesa demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Serra Mesa has a population of 28,474, 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.

Serra Mesa has a population density of 4,220, 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 36, 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 Serra Mesa

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Serra Mesa neighborhood crime breakdown chart

Serra Mesa Crime Map

The Serra Mesa crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $695,196
Median Rent $2,637
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Serra Mesa neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 57% Own 43%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 49% After 2010 51%

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 Serra Mesa, home prices come in around $695,196, 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 Serra Mesa 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 $2,637, rental rates in Serra Mesa 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

Bear Buns Bakery And Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Amphitheater
Theatre Arts
min.
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AMC Mission Valley 20
Cinema
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Maggie's Cafe
Restaurant
min.
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Cotixan
Restaurant
min.
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Groceries

Vons
Grocery Store
min.
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Sage Cake
Bakery
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Parks

Serra Mesa Recreation Center
Park
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Convenience Store
Convenience Store
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7-Eleven
Convenience Store
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Gramercy Drive & Pasternack Pl
Bus Stop
min.
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Gramercy Drive & 9055
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego
Hospital
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COAST Medical Center
Clinic
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Health Care

Greyling Dental
Dentist
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Sharp Rees-Stealy Frost Street North
Doctor
min.
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Safety

San Diego Fire Rescue Station #45
Fire Station
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Fire Station
Fire Station
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Top Rated Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
School For Entrepreneurship And Technology
3540 Aero Ct., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
School For Entrepreneurship And Technology
3540 Aero Ct., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
National University Academy 1001 Steam
3678 Aero Ct., San Diego, CA
High School 6 - 12 School Score
Wegeforth Elementary
3443 Ediwhar Ave., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Kearny College Connections
1954 Komet Way, San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Kearny Sct
1954 Komet Way, San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Cubberley Elementary
3201 Marathon Dr., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like Serra Mesa. 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 Serra Mesa 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.