Escondido – The City of Choice

Escondido is a city located in northern San Diego County that offers a rich cultural experience and vibrant lifestyle. The city is home to a diverse community that celebrates its history and traditions, while also embracing new and exciting developments. Escondido boasts a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and cultural festivals, as well as a variety of recreational activities, such as golfing, hiking, and visiting spas. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, Escondido has something for everyone to enjoy.

Beauty:

Escondido is known for its natural beauty, with stunning landscapes and scenic vistas that make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills, and it offers a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

One of the most notable natural attractions in the area is the Daley Ranch Preserve, a 3,058-acre nature reserve that features a range of trails, including the popular Boulder Loop Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The preserve is home to a range of flora and fauna, including oak woodlands, riparian habitats, and grassy meadows, making it a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Another notable natural attraction in the area is the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, which is located just a few miles from Escondido. The park is home to a range of exotic animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants, and it offers a range of guided tours and interactive experiences, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural beauty, Escondido is also known for its stunning architecture and cultural landmarks. The city has several historic sites and museums, including the California Center for the Arts, which features a range of galleries, theaters, and performance spaces, and the Escondido History Center, which showcases the city’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts.

Overall, Escondido’s natural beauty, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks make it a truly exceptional place to live, offering residents a range of recreational, cultural, and outdoor activities to enjoy.

History and Culture:

Escondido was first settled in the late 1800s, and its name means “hidden” or “hidden valley” in Spanish. The area was originally inhabited by the Kumeyaay people, who were hunter-gatherers and known for their basket weaving skills. Spanish colonizers arrived in the area in the late 1700s and established a mission system, which brought significant changes to the region. During the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, Escondido experienced a population boom, with many settlers drawn to the area by the prospect of finding gold. The arrival of the railroad in 1888 further spurred the city’s growth, and it officially incorporated in 1888. Today, Escondido’s history is celebrated through several museums, historic sites, and cultural events.

Today, the city’s cultural heritage is celebrated at several museums and historic sites, including the Escondido History Center, the San Diego Archaeological Center, and the Queen Califia’s Magical Circle art installation.

Demographics:

Escondido has a population of approximately 150,000 people, making it the fourth-largest city in San Diego County. The city is diverse, with a mix of White, Hispanic, Asian, and African American residents. The median household income is around $70,000, and the cost of living is slightly higher than the national average.

Schools:

Escondido is home to several excellent schools, both public and private.
Public Schools
While it may be subjective to declare any city or town to have the “best schools in the country,” Escondido does have several highly-rated schools and school districts. Escondido is served by three school districts: Escondido Union School District, Escondido Union High School District, and San Pasqual Union School District.

Escondido Union School District serves elementary and middle school students in the city, and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its academic programs. Several of its schools have been recognized as California Distinguished Schools, which is an honor given to schools that demonstrate excellence in education. Additionally, the district has been recognized for its programs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as for its programs in music and the arts.

Escondido Union High School District serves high school students in the city, and has also received several awards and recognitions for its academic programs. Many of its high schools have been recognized as California Distinguished Schools, and the district has also been recognized for its programs in STEM and the arts.

San Pasqual Union School District serves elementary and middle school students in the eastern part of Escondido, and has also received several awards and recognitions for its academic programs. The district has been recognized for its programs in science, social studies, and the arts.

The city also has several private schools, including the Jesuit high school, which has been recognized as one of the best high schools in the country.

Overall, while it may be difficult to declare any city or town to have the “best schools in the country,” Escondido does have several highly-rated schools and school districts that provide a quality education for students in the area.

Private Schools

Escondido also has several highly-rated private schools that provide an alternative to public education. Here are some of the notable private schools in Escondido:

  1. The Classical Academy – The Classical Academy is a private K-12 school that focuses on a classical education model. The school has received numerous awards and recognitions, including being named a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education.
  2. Calvin Christian School – Calvin Christian School is a private K-12 school that emphasizes Christian education. The school has a strong academic program and offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and music programs.
  3. San Pasqual Academy – San Pasqual Academy is a private residential high school that serves foster youth in the area. The school provides a comprehensive academic program and also offers vocational training and life skills classes.
  4. Escondido Adventist Academy – Escondido Adventist Academy is a private K-12 school that is affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The school has a strong academic program and offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and music programs.
  5. Escondido Christian School – Escondido Christian School is a private K-8 school that emphasizes Christian education. The school has a strong academic program and offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and music programs.

Overall, Escondido has several highly-rated private schools that provide a quality education for students in the area. These schools offer a range of educational philosophies and programs, allowing families to choose the school that best fits their needs and values.

Events:

Escondido is a vibrant city with a range of annual events that bring the community together and attract visitors from all over Southern California. Here are some of the most notable events:

  • Grape Day Festival: This annual event celebrates Escondido’s rich history as a grape-growing region and includes a grape stomp competition, wine tastings, live music, and a range of food vendors.
  • Escondido Grand Avenue Festival: This street fair takes place twice a year and features over 500 vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, clothing, and art. The festival also includes live music, a kids’ zone, and a range of food and drink vendors.
  • Escondido Tamale Festival: This popular event celebrates the traditional Mexican dish of tamales and includes a tamale cook-off, live music, and a range of food and drink vendors.
  • Cruisin’ Grand: This weekly event takes place every Friday night during the summer and features over 500 classic cars on display along Grand Avenue. The event also includes live music, food vendors, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
  • Holiday Tree Lighting and Winter Wonderland: This annual event takes place in December and includes a tree lighting ceremony, live music, food vendors, and a winter wonderland area with ice skating, sledding, and other festive activities.

The city also hosts the Escondido Renaissance Faire, a two-day event that takes visitors back in time to the Elizabethan era. Other popular events include the Dia de los Muertos Festival, the Grape Day Festival, and the Escondido Chocolate Festival.

Overall, Escondido’s annual events provide a range of fun, family-friendly activities for residents and visitors alike, showcasing the city’s rich history, culture, and community spirit.

Jobs and Careers:

Escondido has a thriving economy, with many job opportunities in a variety of industries. The city is home to several major employers, including Palomar Medical Center, which is the largest employer in the city, and the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, which employs over 100 people. Other major employers include the City of Escondido, the Escondido Union School District, and several retail and hospitality businesses.

Escondido has a diverse economy with a range of job opportunities in various industries, including healthcare, education, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. Some of the largest employers in the area include:

  • Palomar Medical Center is one of the largest employers in Escondido, California. The medical center is operated by Palomar Health, a healthcare system that employs over 3,000 people in the area. With over 740 beds, Palomar Medical Center is one of the largest hospital facilities in San Diego County and provides a range of medical services to residents of Escondido and the surrounding communities.
    Palomar Medical Center is a major employer in the healthcare industry in the area, providing job opportunities for healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and support staff. The medical center offers a range of career opportunities in various departments, including emergency medicine, surgery, oncology, cardiology, and women’s health. Additionally, Palomar Medical Center offers specialized services, such as neurology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation, providing job opportunities in these fields as well. The medical center’s focus on patient-centered care also creates job opportunities for professionals who specialize in patient care, such as patient care technicians, social workers, and patient advocates. Palomar Medical Center employs a range of support staff, including administrative professionals, information technology specialists, and maintenance workers.
    Overall, Palomar Medical Center is a major employer in Escondido, providing job opportunities for healthcare professionals and support staff in a range of fields. The medical center’s focus on patient-centered care and commitment to providing the latest in medical technology and equipment make it an attractive employer for those looking to work in the healthcare industry.
  • Escondido Union School District: The Escondido Union School District is the largest school district in the city, employing teachers, administrators, and support staff across a range of educational settings.
  • Stone Brewing Company: Stone Brewing Company is a well-known craft brewery that is headquartered in Escondido, providing job opportunities in brewing, hospitality, marketing, and other related fields.
  • City of Escondido: The City of Escondido is a large employer in the area, providing job opportunities in various areas of municipal government, including public safety, public works, and community services.
  • Welk Resort Group: The Welk Resort Group is a hospitality company that operates several resorts and vacation properties in the area, providing job opportunities in hospitality management, sales, and customer service.
  • The California Center for the Arts in Escondido (CCAE) is a major cultural and educational institution that is also one of the largest employers in the area. The CCAE is a nonprofit organization that features two theaters, an art museum, and conference and event spaces.
    The CCAE presents a range of cultural and educational programs, including concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and art exhibits.
    The center’s two theaters, the Concert Hall and the Center Theater, host a range of performances throughout the year, including touring Broadway shows, comedy acts, and musical performances by nationally and internationally renowned artists.
    In addition to its cultural programming, the CCAE also provides educational opportunities for children and adults in the community. The center offers a range of classes and workshops in the visual and performing arts, as well as summer camps and other educational programs for youth. Overall, the California Center for the Arts is a major cultural institution in Escondido, providing residents with access to world-class performances and art exhibits, as well as educational opportunities for people of all ages. As a major employer in the area, the CCAE also plays an important role in the local economy, creating jobs and supporting the growth and development of the community.

Overall, Escondido’s diverse economy and range of large employers provide a wealth of job opportunities for those seeking employment or career advancement. Whether you are looking for a job in healthcare, education, hospitality, or other industries, there are many opportunities available in Escondido.

Lifestyle:

Escondido is an inclusive city that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles and budgets, providing unique opportunities for everyone from those seeking a moderate lifestyle to those desiring a luxurious one. With an array of amenities and attractions available, residents can enjoy a wide range of activities and experiences.

For those seeking a more affordable lifestyle, Escondido offers various housing options such as apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. The city has implemented policies that encourage the development of diverse housing types, which ensures that there is a range of options available for those with different needs and budgets.

For those looking for a more upscale and luxurious lifestyle, Escondido offers numerous amenities and attractions. One of the city’s main draws is its golf courses, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and challenging play for golf enthusiasts, including the Reidy Creek Golf Course, the Vineyard Golf Course and the Lawrence Welk Resort.

The area is also known for its high-end restaurants, shops, and spas, which cater to those seeking a luxury lifestyle. The city has several upscale shopping centers, including the Westfield North County mall and the Escondido Promenade, which offer a range of designer brands and high-end retailers. Additionally, the city has several spas and wellness centers, including the Spa at Rancho Bernardo Inn and the Hidden Spa. Overall, Escondido offers an exceptional quality of life for those seeking an upscale lifestyle.

Wineries

Escondido is also known for its wineries and vineyards, which produce some of the best wines in Southern California. The area’s Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights, is ideal for grape cultivation, and several wineries have sprung up in the region. One of the most popular is the Orfila Vineyards and Winery, which produces a range of award-winning wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot. Other notable wineries in the area include the Cordiano Winery, the Belle Marie Winery, and the Hungry Hawk Vineyards.

Restaurants:

Escondido is home to a range of high-end restaurants, catering to those seeking an upscale dining experience. One of the most popular is Bellamy’s Restaurant, which offers contemporary French cuisine in a stylish, sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant features an open kitchen and a chic bar area, where guests can enjoy a range of cocktails and wines. Other notable restaurants in the area include Vintana Wine + Dine, which offers a fusion of Californian and Mediterranean cuisine, and the Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, which serves locally sourced, farm-to-table cuisine and offers a range of craft beers.

Housing

Escondido offers a variety of housing options to suit a range of lifestyles and budgets. The city’s General Plan includes policies that encourage the development of diverse housing types, such as single-family homes, apartments, townhouses, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Additionally, Escondido has implemented programs to increase the availability of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households.

Escondido has experienced significant growth in recent years, particularly in the construction of new housing units. Many of the new developments in the city incorporate smart growth principles, such as mixed-use development and pedestrian-friendly design. These developments are often located near transit, shopping, and other amenities, making them attractive to residents who want to reduce their reliance on cars.

The city also offers several programs and incentives to encourage the development of affordable housing. These include:

  • Inclusionary housing: Escondido requires that new residential developments of 10 units or more include a percentage of affordable units.
  • Density bonus: Developers who include affordable units in their projects are eligible for a density bonus, which allows for additional units beyond what is allowed by zoning regulations.
  • Fee waivers and reductions: The city offers fee waivers and reductions for affordable housing developments to help reduce the costs for developers.

Overall, Escondido’s commitment to diverse and affordable housing options, coupled with its focus on smart growth principles, has helped to create a more livable and sustainable community for all residents.

Development

Escondido has adopted smart growth principles as a part of its planning and development strategies. The city’s General Plan, which serves as a blueprint for growth and development, emphasizes the importance of creating sustainable, livable, and healthy communities. The plan includes policies and programs that promote smart growth, such as encouraging mixed-use development, prioritizing infill development, and promoting pedestrian and bicycle-friendly streets.

One of the key smart growth initiatives in Escondido is the Downtown Specific Plan, which was adopted in 2012. The plan aims to revitalize the city’s downtown area by promoting a mix of land uses, encouraging infill development, and improving pedestrian and bicycle connectivity. The plan also includes design guidelines that prioritize high-quality architecture, public spaces, and streetscapes.

In addition to the Downtown Specific Plan, Escondido has also implemented other smart growth policies and programs, such as:

  • Transit-oriented development (TOD) zoning: The city has designated several areas near transit stations for TOD, which allows for higher density development and a mix of uses that support transit ridership.
  • Complete streets: Escondido has adopted a Complete Streets policy, which requires that streets be designed and operated to accommodate all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders.
  • Sustainable building codes: The city has adopted building codes that require new development to meet high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability.

Overall, Escondido’s commitment to smart growth principles has helped to create a more sustainable, livable, and vibrant community. By prioritizing infill development, mixed-use development, and pedestrian and transit-friendly design, the city is working to create a more walkable, connected, and sustainable community for all residents.

Escondido is a great place to live for those seeking luxury housing and an upscale lifestyle. With its rich history and culture, excellent schools, numerous events, and beautiful landscapes, it offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quiet, suburban retreat or a bustling city center, Escondido has something to offer.