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Shelltown, San Diego,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Moving to a vibrant and welcoming community like Shelltown is an exciting prospect for anyone looking to settle in the southeast part of San Diego. This neighborhood is known for its tight-knit feel and charming streets lined with craftsman-style homes and colorful murals that give the area a unique character. Residents enjoy a blend of urban convenience and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and artists alike. The sense of community here is strong, with local events and neighborhood gatherings often taking place, fostering connections among neighbors.

One of the real standouts of Shelltown is its proximity to some fantastic local attractions. The neighborhood boasts easy access to Chollas Creek Trail, perfect for morning jogs, biking, or leisurely strolls surrounded by nature. Foodies will appreciate the variety of eateries nearby that offer everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to trendy coffee shops and craft breweries. A visit to the nearby Southcrest Trails Park provides ample green space for outdoor activities, including playgrounds and picnic areas. Whether you’re a fan of nature, good food, or community events, Shelltown offers a little something for everyone.

For those who work or enjoy the buzz of city life, Shelltown is conveniently located just about 7 miles southeast of Downtown San Diego, making commutes manageable and quick. This close proximity means residents can easily access the cultural amenities, entertainment venues, and employment opportunities of the city center without sacrificing the calm neighborhood vibe. Public transportation options are also available, providing a convenient link to the rest of San Diego. Overall, Shelltown strikes a wonderful balance between suburban tranquility and urban accessibility, making it a great choice for anyone relocating to the area.

Community Snapshot

Population 6,081
Density (People/sqml.) 10,337
Median Age 30.8
Married Couples
42%
42% of the population of Shelltown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
36%
36% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

36% of the Shelltown 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.

36% of people over 16 have children, so you're likely to find a balanced mix of family life and adult-oriented living. The neighborhood tends to feel lively without being overwhelming, with a good blend of young families, professionals, and long-term residents. Parks, playgrounds, and local schools contribute to a friendly community atmosphere, while quieter pockets and mature spaces appeal to those seeking peace and privacy. This balance makes the area welcoming to nearly everyone.

Age Breakdown

Shelltown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Shelltown 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 6,081, the number of residents who reside in Shelltown 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 10,337, Shelltown 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 Shelltown

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Shelltown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Shelltown Crime Map

The Shelltown 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

? /10
Home Price $481,500
Median Rent $1,548
People/Household 3.7

Home Price Breakdown

Shelltown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 70% Own 30%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 45% After 2010 55%

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 Shelltown, home prices come in around $481,500, 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 Shelltown 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 $1,548, rental rates in Shelltown 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

Esquina Vintage and Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
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SD Boba Tea
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Admiral Robinson Bowling Center
Bowling Alley
min.
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Museum of American Treasures
Museum
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Jack in the Box
Fast Food
min.
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Petes Cocktails
Bar
min.
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Groceries

Northgate Market
Grocery Store
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Foodland Iga #2
Grocery Store
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Cesar Chavez Field
Park
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Shops

NEX Mini Mart
Convenience Store
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7-Eleven
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

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Branch Health Clinic NBSD
Clinic
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Paradise Valley Hospital
Hospital
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Health Care

Branch Health Clinic Dental NBSD
Dentist
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Safety

Fire Station No. 17
Fire Station
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Police
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
America'S Finest Charter
730 45Th St., San Diego, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
America'S Finest Charter
730 45Th St., San Diego, CA
High School KG - 12 School Score
Integrity Charter
701 National City Blvd., National City, CA
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Lincoln High
4777 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
San Diego Workforce Innovation High
2281 Diegueno Rd., Borrego Springs, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Chavez Elementary
1404 S. 40Th St., San Diego, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Central Elementary
933 E Ave., National City, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Shelltown 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 Shelltown 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 $23,089
Household Income $62,777
Unemployment 6.3%

Income Breakdown

Shelltown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors play a key role in shaping the character and accessibility of a neighborhood, influencing everything from lifestyle to opportunity. Household incomes in Shelltown average around $62,777, which is lower than average. This affordability contributes to a more accessible lifestyle, making it an appealing choice for first-time homeowners, young families, and those looking to enjoy the benefits of the area without a high price tag.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Shelltown, the unemployment rate is 6%, 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 are some of the highlights?

Shelltown is known for its vibrant mix of cultural diversity and proximity to both urban and natural attractions. Highlights include its close access to Chollas Creek Trail, which is great for walking and biking, and the nearby Southcrest Trails Park offering green space for outdoor activities. The neighborhood also benefits from its proximity to the bustling National City and Barrio Logan, where residents can enjoy eclectic dining options and art galleries.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

While Shelltown itself is primarily residential, it is near several important historical sites. The nearby Barrio Logan neighborhood is home to the famous Chicano Park, renowned for its colorful murals that celebrate Mexican-American culture and history. Additionally, the area has historic ties to San Diego’s shipbuilding industry, reflected in local architecture and community heritage.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Yes, Shelltown is conveniently located near major transit routes. The neighborhood is close to Interstate 5, providing direct access to Downtown San Diego and other parts of the county. Public transportation is accessible with multiple bus lines servicing the area, making commuting easier for residents without cars. This connectivity allows for efficient travel to key areas including Downtown San Diego, which is approximately 6 miles away.

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