44,468 people live in La Jolla, where the median age is 45 and the average individual income is $88,249. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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La Jolla, meaning "The Jewel" in Spanish, is one of Southern California's most prestigious coastal communities. Perched along San Diego's northwestern coastline, this affluent enclave combines dramatic ocean views, world-class amenities, and an unmistakable sense of sophistication.
The community stretches across seven miles of stunning Pacific coastline, featuring everything from sea-carved coves and protected marine reserves to golden sandy beaches. La Jolla's distinct neighborhoods range from the walkable Village with its boutiques and galleries to exclusive gated estates overlooking Black's Beach.
Home to UC San Diego, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, and a thriving biotech corridor, La Jolla attracts academics, executives, and entrepreneurs seeking an elevated coastal lifestyle. The community balances small-town charm with big-city cultural amenities, including the Tony Award-winning La Jolla Playhouse and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego.
La Jolla is home to approximately ~44,000 residents who enjoy one of California's highest standards of living. The median age is 45, reflecting a mix of established professionals, successful retirees, and young families drawn by top-rated schools.
The professional composition is notably white-collar, with 95% of the working population employed in professional, scientific, management, or administrative positions. Roughly 21% are self-employed entrepreneurs, while 53% work for private companies and 18% serve in the public sector.
Residents include UC San Diego professors, biotech researchers, physicians from nearby medical centers, tech executives, and business owners. International buyers, representing about 35% of luxury purchases above $3 million, come predominantly from Canada, China, Mexico, the UK, and the Middle East.
Household incomes reflect the community's affluence. Households led by residents aged 45-64 earn a median of $179,539. Over 91% of residents live above the poverty line, and 62% own their homes rather than rent.
La Jolla occupies a unique peninsular position on San Diego's northern coast, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on three sides. The community sits approximately 12 miles north of downtown San Diego and 25 miles south of Carlsbad.
The terrain varies dramatically from sea level beaches to Mount Soledad's 822-foot summit. This topography creates distinct microclimates and endless ocean views from hillside properties. The coastal cliffs rise to 300 feet at Torrey Pines, providing dramatic backdrops for hiking and hang gliding.
Key natural features include La Jolla Cove's protected marine sanctuary, the sandstone caves accessible by kayak, Windansea Beach's legendary surf breaks, and the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve protecting North America's rarest pine tree.
Distinct neighborhoods include La Jolla Farms above Black's Beach, the walkable Village, family-oriented Muirlands on Mount Soledad's western slopes, laid-back Bird Rock to the south, La Jolla Shores with its mile-long sandy beach, and Hidden Valley's private enclave.
La Jolla commands some of the highest real estate prices in San Diego County, with 2025 median home prices ranging from $2.4 million to $2.8 million depending on property type and location. Single-family homes in premium locations often exceed $4 million, while oceanfront estates routinely trade between $10 million and $40 million.
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Property taxes run approximately 1.1% of assessed value annually. Most La Jolla areas have minimal or no Mello-Roos fees, unlike newer developments. HOA fees range from $100-$500 monthly for single-family homes to $800-$3,000+ for luxury condominiums with premium amenities.
Historical appreciation has averaged 8-9% annually over the past decade, outperforming broader San Diego markets by 2-3%. Limited developable land, coastal restrictions, and persistent demand from high-net-worth buyers support long-term value stability.
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La Jolla's culinary scene rivals any coastal destination in California. George's at the Cove, a three-level dining destination overlooking La Jolla Cove, has anchored the local food scene for 40 years under Chef Trey Foshee. The Ocean Terrace rooftop offers sunset views, while California Modern delivers fine dining below.
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Cultural venues include the Tony Award-winning La Jolla Playhouse, which launched productions like Jersey Boys before Broadway, and the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego overlooking the ocean. The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library hosts intimate concerts and exhibitions.
Shopping centers range from Prospect Street's boutiques and galleries to Westfield UTC's upscale retailers including Nordstrom, Tiffany & Co., Restoration Hardware, and Tommy Bahama.
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La Jolla's public schools consistently rank among California's best, operating within the A-rated San Diego Unified School District. La Jolla High School was the first public school on the West Coast to achieve Cum Laude status.
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UC San Diego adds a university-town element, with many professors and researchers choosing La Jolla for its proximity to campus. The Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Birch Aquarium provide unique educational resources for residents.
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La Jolla's most prestigious addresses command prices from $10 million to well over $40 million. These streets represent the pinnacle of California coastal real estate.
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La Jolla attracts a specific buyer profile: those who prioritize coastal beauty, educational excellence, and refined living without compromising on investment quality.
Ideal buyers include established professionals in biotech, healthcare, and technology seeking proximity to San Diego's innovation corridor and UCSD. Executives and entrepreneurs value the prestige, privacy, and networking opportunities within the community. Families relocating for top-rated public and private schools find Muirlands, Bird Rock, and La Jolla Shores particularly appealing.
Active retirees gravitate toward La Jolla for its Mediterranean climate, world-class golf, and accessible beaches. The walkable Village appeals to those downsizing from larger homes who want cultural amenities at their doorstep. International buyers view La Jolla as a stable, appreciating asset in one of America's most desirable coastal markets.
For those who can invest at La Jolla's level, the rewards extend beyond real estate returns. Residents gain membership in an exclusive coastal community where natural beauty, cultural sophistication, and California's finest climate converge. The question isn't whether La Jolla delivers value—it's whether your lifestyle ambitions match what this jewel of San Diego offers.
There's plenty to do around La Jolla, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Steve Seebold Surfboards, Hentzforth Fit , and Beaute & iBrows by Mandy Love.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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| Active | 4.21 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.98 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 2.48 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.97 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.73 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.51 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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La Jolla has 16,515 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in La Jolla do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 44,468 people call La Jolla home. The population density is 7,497.44 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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The Comiskey Group’s vast experience and advocacy make for an unstoppable partnership in any real estate transaction, not only for the luxury market. Partner with a team with unwavering dedication, expert negotiation skills and who is determined to assist you in accomplishing your buying and selling goals. We provide a free consultation for buying, selling, renting, or investing in San Diego.
