Your Guide to Buying a Home in Escondido, CA

Buying a Home in Escondido, California

(Beautiful Lake Dixon provides plenty of recreational activities amidst the area's scenic setting)

Escondido is located in San Diego County

The land on which Escondido now sits was first discovered by a Spanish settler in 1776. Recognized for its fertility and suitable climate, the land was eventually divided into small farms that could produce grapes or citrus fruits. In 1888, the city was officially incorporated. From its early days of agriculture, Escondido has flourished into a large city with a diverse economy. Currently, the largest industries are retail trade, manufacturing, and services. However, over a dozen various industries have their footprint on Escondido's economy. The city's location as the core of Inland North San Diego County has poised Escondido for future growth that may draw both workers and consumers from the San Diego metropolitan area, just 20 miles to the south.

Contributing to Escondido's future as an important financial and residential center are the numerous entertainment options and exciting new developments taking shape throughout the city. North San Diego's largest shopping mall, The North County Fair, is found in Escondido. In addition, the San Diego Wild Animal Park and the Iceoplex Ice Center are sure to attract visitors of all ages. Lovers of the visual and performing arts will enjoy the California Center for the Arts (Escondido) and the Patio Playhouse.

Outdoor recreation is easily found at several local lakes (Dixon, Hodges and Wohlford), the Pacific Ocean coastline (about 10 miles away), and Escondido's excellent recreation programs, which are among the finest in the state. For sports lovers, the city is just thirty minutes from professional baseball with the Padres and football with the Chargers at San Diego Qualcomm stadium.

After building a hefty appetite from a long day of sightseeing enjoy a delicious dinner from some of the world's finest cuisine. Of course, Escondido’s Spanish background does translate into a predominant number of Mexican restaurants, though it is not difficult to find German, Chinese, French and Italian eateries.

Throughout the year, Escondido hosts numerous festivals, celebrating their Spanish heritage and the simple pride that residents have for their town. The Escondido Street Faire has live entertainment and over 600 booths of crafts and international foods. It is the second largest such event in all of California. The Grape Day Festival celebrates the area's early heritage as a grape producer and features entertainment, numerous demonstrations such as blacksmithing and printing, and farm equipment displays.