The city of Del Mar is located on the Pacific Ocean, and is noted for being a popular beach town. Located in San Diego County, Del Mar is home to just over 4,000 year round residents. The city is not large, with a total area of 1.8 square miles. Despite the small size, the city offers plenty to see and do, with the beaches being the main attraction.
The median household income in Del Mar is double that of the state of California average. Median house values of over $800,000 are also more than double the state average. As of 2011, home sales prices in the city were the lowest they have ever been. A peak in 2007 saw homes selling for an average of 6.5 million. In 2011, this amount was slashed down to 1.4 million.
The cost of living is 55.3 points higher than the national average, which places it in the very high category. Unemployment rates in Del Mar were 2 points lower than the California average as of 2011, coming in at 10.2%. Finance and insurance are the most common occupations for males. For females, the most common is health care and social assistance. Education services ranks just behind these two.
Visitors and new residents will find a host of things to do in this small, quaint beach side community. In addition to the beaches, there are plenty of shopping and dine options. Notable attractions include:
- Del Mar Race Track
- Del Mar Fairgrounds
- Dog Beach
- Farmers Market
- Torrey Pines Beach and State Park
- Scripps Bluff Preserve
- San Dieguito River Lagoon
The climate in Del Mar is similar to that of other coastal California towns. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are mild. Rarely does the temperature exceed 85 degrees, and rarely does it drop below 60 degrees. Placement next to the ocean can cause humidity levels to be higher than cities that are located inland. Rainfall levels are lower than national averages.
As to be expected in a city of this size, there are only a few schools. However, both public and private school options are available. Though there is no city college, the University of California-San Diego is only seven miles away from the city. National University is located in nearby La Jolla, and is only four miles away.
Public transportation in the form of buses is not available. Driving, walking, and bicycling are the main forms of transportation. There is an Amtrak station located three miles from the city. Those who wish to fly will most likely want to use the San Diego International Airport.
One of the most interesting things about the city of Del Mar are the famous people that choose to call the city their home. NFL quarterbacks Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Carson Palmer have homes in Del Mar. Stars such as Steve Perry of the band Journey, motivational speaker Anthony Robbins, skateboard legend Tony Hawk, and songwriter Burt Bacharach also call Del Mar home at least part of the year.
