North County

Colloquially know as “North County,” this area of San Diego comprises of several affluent communities along the Ted Williams Parkway (56) onto the northern San Diegan coastline. Among North County’s most attractive features is its high-quality public and private education systems, well-known for sending many students to prestigious universities throughout the nation.

With its combination of serene weather, stellar education and proximity to prominent white-collar employers, property values in North County are anticipated to continue climbing steadily into the foreseeable future. Browse below to learn more about the many diverse communities of North County for you to call your own!

Neighborhoods

Important suburbs in the Inland North County Area include, from east to west, Poway, Carmel Mountain Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Black Mountain Ranch, Torrey Highlands, Carmel Valley, and Del Mar Heights. The fairly newer northern community of 4S Ranch is unincorporated, but still considered a part of the "North County" culture and affluence. All said neighborhoods are well-served by plentiful public parks, golf courses, recreational opportunities and outstanding school systems. 

Education

The Poway Unified School District ranks among the best school systems in the area, with San Dieguito Union on par with similarly excellent academic performance. Among the best high schools in North County belong to both these districts, including Torrey Pines High, Canyon Crest Academy and Poway High. Private schooling options are also plentiful and accomplished, such as Cathedral Catholic High and La Jolla Country Day School.

Entertainment

North County has no shortage of parks for nature access, and is also conveniently located close to the famous Barona Casino in Ramona and to Julian for world-famous apple pies. Take a hike starting at Lake Poway to the aptly named "Potato Chip" rock, or cruise up to Mount Laguna for their numerous campsites for a weekend getaway. Don't forget to hit Mount Palomar Observatory up a 5,000 foot drive, or to hone your swing in one of North County's many golf clubs!

Transportation

A fairly unique aspect of inland North County is the specialized, independent carpool lane (aka "15 Express Lane") serving the 15 freeway at the eastward junction of Ted Williams (56) with the 15. Residents can purchase a "FasTrak" for easy access to the carpool lane during rush hour traffic for faster access to the 163 freeway connecting the 15 with the 805.

North County is otherwise not well-known for public transportation access, and thus inspires many residents into becoming motorcycle enthusiasts. It is not uncommon to see a diverse array of Harleys, Ducatis, BMWs, MV Agustas or Japanese models cruising into the neighboring mountains on weekends, sometimes followed by prime examples of exotic automobiles!