by If you’re considering moving to San Diego, CA, you may be wondering what life in this city is really like. San Diego is a vibrant city known for its eclectic weather, lush beaches, friendly people, and booming economy.
So, whether you’re relocating for work or considering a move for a change of scenery, there’s something for everyone in San Diego. To help you navigate life in San Diego, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do:
Explore housing options
San Diego ranks among the most expensive American cities. A one-bedroom apartment in this city will usually set you back around $2,194 per month. If you’re planning to buy a home, the median home price can cost up to $765,000.
This goes to show you that living in San Diego isn’t cheap. You’ll want to explore the different housing options available to find what fits your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for more affordable housing options, check out these furnished monthly apartments for rent in San Diego. You’ll find plenty of move-in-ready apartments available for flexible stays of 30 days or longer.
Explore the beaches
With over 17 miles of beaches, it needs no telling that life in San Diego revolves around beaches. The city’s beaches stretch from Mission Beach in the north to Imperial Beach in the south.
Locals and visitors alike can explore endless opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, and more. Another exciting thing you can do is go on a san diego whale watching trip.
And the best part? The city sees an average of 266 sunny days per year. That means you can explore the beaches all year round without bad weather getting in your way.
Try the local cuisine
San Diego is a foodie’s paradise, for good reasons. The number of restaurants and eateries located within the borders of the city alone is around 7,000.
But do you know what the icing on the cake is? Each of these restaurants offers diverse cuisines from around the world. Here you’ll find all kinds of tacos, burritos, ramen, sushi, and pho, just to name a few.
Not only that, you’ll also find the best Mexican food in the city, thanks to San Diego’s proximity to Mexico. Be sure to try something new and explore the city’s local food scene. You never know, you might discover your new favorite dish!
Prepare for daily commute
San Diego is one of the U.S. cities with the most commuters. Traffic can be heavy here. So if you prefer to drive, consider using carpool lanes or alternative routes to avoid congestion.
If you decide to ditch the car, San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System includes buses, trolleys, and light rail to keep you moving.
What’s more, San Diego has a well-maintained bike lane network, which makes cycling a viable option for short commutes.
Don’t:
Forget your sunscreen
San Diego can get quite hot on summer days. The city’s temperatures usually hover between 77F and 79F during the hottest days of the year.
On some occasions, albeit rare, temperatures can hit 90F or higher, increasing the risk of sunburn. Therefore, make sure you protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Unless you don’t mind getting age spots and premature wrinkles, moisturizing your skin and wearing sunscreen are your skin preserver here in San Diego.
Ignore earthquake safety
San Diego lies in a seismically active region, so earthquakes are the norm here. On average, the city experiences about 35 earthquakes every day.
Although most of them are just minor shakes, it’s still wise to stay prepared. Know the proper safety procedures for earthquakes and have an emergency kit on hand.
Be insensitive to cultural differences
San Diego is home to people from different cultures and ethnicities. The city’s total population is around 1.4 million people.
About 59% of the city’s residents are white, 28% are Hispanic, and the rest are Puerto Ricans, Cubans, and Latinos. Due to the city’s diversity, it’s important to be respectful and sensitive to other people’s cultural backgrounds.
Underestimate water conservation
Like the rest of California, San Diego is located in a desert region. The drought here is very serious and the area faces a limited water supply.
So be mindful of water conservation and do your part to conserve this precious resource. Otherwise, you risk facing hefty fines for wasting water or violating the city’s water restrictions.
Final Thought
San Diego is a great place to live in the United States. Its relaxed vibe, coupled with its laid-back atmosphere, makes it a wonderful place to call home.
Try and follow the do’s and don’ts above at all times while in San Diego. This is the key to making your stay as fun and comfortable as it can get.
