Cities and Towns in San Diego County, California

Founded in 1850, San Diego County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. The city of San Diego is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, San Diego County has a population of 3,286,069 and area of 4,204 square miles (10,888 km²).

List of all cities in San Diego County, CA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alpine, CA	91901	619
	91903	619
ASW Training Center, CA	92147	619
Bonita, CA	91902	619
	91908	619
Bonsall, CA	92003	760
Borrego Springs, CA	92004	760
Bostonia, CA	92021	619
Boulevard, CA	91905	619
California State San Marcos, CA	92096	760
Camp Pendleton, CA	92054	760
	92055	760
Campo, CA	91906	619
	91987	619
Cardiff, CA	92007	760
Cardiff by the Sea, CA	92007	760
Carlsbad, CA	92008	760
	92009	760
	92010	760
	92011	760
	92013	760
	92018	760
Chula Vista, CA	91909	619
	91910	619
	91911	619
	91912	619
	91913	619
	91914	619
	91915	619
	91921	619
Cmp Pendleton, CA	92054	760
	92055	760
Coronado, CA	92118	619
	92178	619
Crest, CA	92021	619
Del Mar, CA	92014	858
Descanso, CA	91916	619
Dulzura, CA	91917	619
El Cajon, CA	92019	619
	92020	619
	92021	619
	92022	760
	92090	619
Encinitas, CA	92023	760
Encinitas, CA	92024	760
Escondido, CA	92025	760
	92026	760
	92027	760
	92029	760
	92030	760
	92033	760
	92046	760
Fallbrook, CA	92028	760
	92088	760
Guatay, CA	91931	619
Imperial Beach, CA	91932	619
	91933	619
Jacumba, CA	91934	619
Jamul, CA	91935	619
Julian, CA	92036	760
La Jolla, CA	92037	858
	92038	858
	92039	858
	92092	858
	92093	858
La Mesa, CA	91941	619
	91942	619
	91943	619
	91944	619
Lake San Marcos, CA	92069	760
Lakeside, CA	92040	619
Lemon Grove, CA	91945	619
	91946	619
Leucadia, CA	92024	760
Lincoln Acres, CA	91947	619
Marine Corp Base, CA	92055	760
Mount Laguna, CA	91948	619
Nas Miramar, CA	92145	858
National City, CA	91950	619
	91951	619
Naval Amphibious Base, CA	92155	619
Naval Hospital, CA	92134	619
Naval Station 32nd St, CA	92136	619
Naval Supply Center, CA	92132	619
Nestor, CA	92153	619
Ocean Beach, CA	92107	619
Oceanside, CA	92049	760
	92051	760
	92052	760
	92054	760
	92055	760
	92056	760
	92057	760
	92058	760
Olivenhain, CA	92024	760
Pacific Beach, CA	92109	858
Pala, CA	92059	760
Pala, CA	92061	760
Palomar Mountain, CA	92060	760
Pauma Valley, CA	92061	760
Pine Valley, CA	91962	619
Potrero, CA	91963	619
Poway, CA	92064	858
Poway, CA	92074	858
Rainbow, CA	92028	760
Ramona, CA	92065	760
Ranchita, CA	92066	760
Rancho Bernardo, CA	92128	858
Rancho Santa Fe, CA	92067	760
	92091	760
San Diego, CA	92101	619
	92102	619
	92103	619
	92104	619
	92105	619
	92106	619
	92107	619
	92108	619
	92109	858
	92110	858
	92111	858
	92112	619
	92113	619
	92114	858
	92115	858
	92116	619
	92117	858
	92118	619
	92119	858
	92120	858
	92121	858
	92122	858
	92123	858
	92124	858
	92126	858
	92127	858
	92128	858
	92129	858
	92130	858
	92131	858
	92132	619
	92134	619
	92135	619
	92136	619
	92137	619
	92138	619
	92139	619
	92140	619
	92142	619
	92143	619
	92145	858
	92147	619
	92149	619
	92150	619
	92152	619
	92153	619
	92154	619
	92155	619
	92158	619
	92159	619
	92160	619
	92161	619
	92162	619
	92163	619
	92164	619
	92165	619
	92166	619
	92167	619
	92168	619
	92169	619
	92170	619
	92171	619
	92172	619
	92173	619
92174	619
92175	619
92176	619
92177	619
92178	619
92179	619
92182	619
92184	619
92186	619
92187	619
92190	619
92191	619
92192	619
92193	619
92194	619
92195	619
92196	619
92197	619
92198	619
92199	619
San Diego County Jail, CA	92158	619
San Diego Gas and Electric, CA	92184	619
San Diego State University, CA	92182	619
San Diego Water Utilities, CA	92187	619
San Luis Rey, CA	92068	760
San Marcos, CA	92069	760
	92078	760
	92079	760
	92096	760
San Ysidro, CA	92143	619
	92173	619
Santa Ysabel, CA	92070	760
Santee, CA	92071	619
	92072	619
Solana Beach, CA	92075	858
Spawars System Center, CA	92152	619
Spring Valley, CA	91976	619
	91977	619
	91978	619
	91979	619
T K Manufacturing, CA	91987	619
Tecate, CA	91980	619
Tecate, CA	91987	619
Travel Lodge, CA	92090	619
UCSB, CA	92092	858
	92093	858
	92092	858
	92093	858
V A Hospital, CA	92161	619
Valley Center, CA	92082	760
Vista, CA	92081	760
	92083	760
	92084	760
	92085	760
Warner Springs, CA	92066	760
	92086	760

Major Cities and Towns in San Diego County, California

San Diego

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 372.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1.4 million (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92101-92124, 92126-92131, 92134-92140, 92145, 92147, 92149, 92152-92155, 92158-92179, 92182, 92186, 92190-92199
• Latitude: 32.7157° N
• Longitude: 117.1611° W

City Location and History

San Diego, the second-largest city in California, is located on the Pacific coast, just north of the Mexican border. The area was originally inhabited by the Kumeyaay people before becoming one of the first European settlements on the West Coast when Spanish explorers established the Presidio and Mission San Diego de Alcalá in 1769. San Diego became part of Mexico in 1821 and later the United States in 1848 following the Mexican-American War. The city’s natural deep-water harbor made it a strategic military location and a key commercial port. Over the years, San Diego has grown into a major city known for its mild climate, extensive beaches, and naval presence. Today, it is a hub for biotechnology, healthcare, and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

San Diego is home to several major universities, including the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), San Diego State University (SDSU), and the University of San Diego (USD). The city’s landmarks are numerous and include Balboa Park, which houses museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the world. The USS Midway Museum, located on a retired aircraft carrier, provides insight into the city’s naval history. The historic Gaslamp Quarter is a vibrant downtown area known for its nightlife, restaurants, and Victorian architecture. Other notable landmarks include the iconic Hotel del Coronado, SeaWorld San Diego, and the Cabrillo National Monument, which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline. San Diego’s blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions makes it a dynamic and diverse city.

Chula Vista

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 52.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 285,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 91910-91915, 91921
• Latitude: 32.6401° N
• Longitude: 117.0842° W

City Location and History

Chula Vista, meaning “beautiful view” in Spanish, is located in the South Bay region of San Diego County, just seven miles from downtown San Diego and seven miles from the Mexican border. The area was originally part of a Spanish land grant before becoming a citrus-growing region in the late 19th century. Chula Vista was incorporated as a city in 1911 and grew rapidly during World War II due to the expansion of the defense industry, particularly the Rohr Aircraft Corporation. In recent decades, the city has experienced significant residential and commercial growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing cities in the county. Chula Vista is known for its cultural diversity and as a gateway to both San Diego and Mexico.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Chula Vista is served by several school districts, including the Chula Vista Elementary School District and the Sweetwater Union High School District, with notable schools such as Eastlake High School and Olympian High School. The city’s major landmarks include the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, an Olympic training facility that hosts athletes from around the world. The Living Coast Discovery Center, located on San Diego Bay, offers exhibits on the local wildlife and ecology. The city also features several shopping and entertainment centers, including the Otay Ranch Town Center. The annual Chula Vista Lemon Festival celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage with food, music, and family-friendly activities. With its strategic location, growing economy, and diverse community, Chula Vista is a key city in San Diego County.

Oceanside

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 42.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 178,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92049, 92051, 92052, 92054-92058
• Latitude: 33.1959° N
• Longitude: 117.3795° W

City Location and History

Oceanside is located in the northern part of San Diego County, along the Pacific coast. The city’s history dates back to the establishment of the Mission San Luis Rey de Francia in 1798, which played a central role in the area’s development. Oceanside was officially founded in 1888 as a seaside resort town, benefiting from its location on the California Southern Railroad. The city grew rapidly after World War II, particularly with the establishment of Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton to the north, which brought a significant military presence to the area. Today, Oceanside is known for its beautiful beaches, historic pier, and as a gateway to Southern California’s coastal attractions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oceanside is served by the Oceanside Unified School District, with schools like El Camino High School and Oceanside High School playing key roles in the community. The city’s landmarks include the Oceanside Pier, one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, which offers fishing, dining, and stunning views of the ocean. The historic Mission San Luis Rey, often called the “King of the Missions,” is a major cultural and historical site, providing insight into the region’s early history. Oceanside’s downtown area has seen revitalization in recent years, with new restaurants, shops, and cultural venues like the Oceanside Museum of Art. The annual Oceanside International Film Festival and the Ironman 70.3 triathlon are notable events that draw visitors from around the world. Oceanside’s blend of historic charm, coastal beauty, and vibrant community life make it a key city in San Diego County.

Escondido

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 37.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 153,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92025-92027, 92029, 92033, 92046
• Latitude: 33.1192° N
• Longitude: 117.0864° W

City Location and History

Escondido is located in the northeastern part of San Diego County, in a valley surrounded by rocky hills. The city was founded in 1888 and its name, meaning “hidden” in Spanish, reflects its location in a sheltered valley. Escondido originally developed as an agricultural community, known for its citrus, avocado, and grape production. The arrival of the Escondido Mutual Water Company in the early 20th century and the construction of Lake Wohlford Dam transformed the area into a thriving farming region. In the latter half of the 20th century, Escondido expanded as a residential suburb of San Diego, while still retaining its agricultural roots. Today, Escondido is a diverse city with a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and cultural attractions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Escondido is served by the Escondido Union School District and the Escondido Union High School District, with Escondido High School and San Pasqual High School being the main secondary institutions. The city’s landmarks include the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a major tourist attraction that offers expansive natural habitats for a variety of animals. The California Center for the Arts, Escondido, is a cultural hub that hosts concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions. The historic Grape Day Park, located in downtown Escondido, celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage and hosts community events. The nearby Daley Ranch offers hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails across over 3,000 acres of preserved natural land. Escondido’s combination of cultural amenities, outdoor activities, and community-focused events make it an important city in San Diego County.

Carlsbad

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 39.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 116,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92008-92011, 92013, 92018
• Latitude: 33.1581° N
• Longitude: 117.3506° W

City Location and History

Carlsbad is located along the northern coast of San Diego County, about 35 miles north of downtown San Diego. The city was named after a spa in Karlsbad, Bohemia (now in the Czech Republic), due to its mineral water, which was discovered in the late 19th century and believed to have healing properties. Carlsbad grew as a resort town, attracting visitors seeking the benefits of its mineral water and seaside location. The city officially incorporated in 1952 and has since developed into a thriving community known for its beautiful beaches, lagoons, and as a hub for tourism and technology industries. Carlsbad is often referred to as “The Village by the Sea” for its quaint downtown and coastal charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carlsbad is served by the Carlsbad Unified School District, with Carlsbad High School and Sage Creek High School being the main secondary institutions. The city is home to several major landmarks, including Legoland California, a popular theme park that draws families from across the region. The Carlsbad Flower Fields, which bloom with vibrant colors each spring, are another significant attraction, celebrating the city’s agricultural heritage. The historic Leo Carrillo Ranch, once owned by the famous actor, offers tours of the preserved adobe buildings and gardens. Carlsbad’s downtown area, known as Carlsbad Village, features shops, restaurants, and cultural events, all within walking distance of the beach. The city’s coastal location, family-friendly amenities, and thriving economy make Carlsbad a key destination in San Diego County.

El Cajon

Area, Population, and Geography

• Area: 14.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 104,000 (2023 estimate)
• Zip Codes: 92019-92022, 92090
• Latitude: 32.7948° N
• Longitude: 116.9625° W

City Location and History

El Cajon is located in the eastern part of San Diego County, in a valley surrounded by mountains. The city’s name, meaning “The Box” in Spanish, refers to its location in a boxed-in valley. El Cajon was originally part of a Spanish land grant and developed as an agricultural area, particularly known for its vineyards and orchards. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred growth, and El Cajon became an important center for farming and ranching. The city officially incorporated in 1912 and has since grown into a diverse urban community, serving as a gateway to the eastern parts of San Diego County. Today, El Cajon is known for its cultural diversity and vibrant community life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

El Cajon is served by the Cajon Valley Union School District and the Grossmont Union High School District, with schools like El Cajon Valley High School and Granite Hills High School being prominent institutions. The city’s landmarks include the Water Conservation Garden at Cuyamaca College, which offers educational exhibits on drought-tolerant gardening and water conservation. The historic Knox House Museum provides insights into the early history of El Cajon and the surrounding area. Downtown El Cajon hosts a variety of community events, including the annual Mother Goose Parade, one of the largest parades in the county. The nearby Sycuan Casino and Resort is a popular destination for entertainment and dining. El Cajon’s blend of history, cultural diversity, and community events make it a key city in San Diego County.

Map of Cities in San Diego County, CA