Birney Elementary School
Public · Grades K–5
San Diego,
CA
Uptown
San Diego,
CA
Neighborhoods
Uptown
Historic homes, local flavors, and Balboa Park next door
About the Neighborhood
Living in Uptown
The Uptown area of San Diego blends together several neighborhoods, including Hillcrest, Mission Hills, and University Heights, and is situated just north of Downtown. The area is home to multiple commercial streets like University Avenue, Park Boulevard, and Goldfinch Street, offering popular eateries like Crest Cafe, Fort Oak, and Madison, among many others. Uptown has a great architectural heritage, featuring historic Craftsman and Spanish Colonial Revival homes alongside iconic neighborhood neon signs and cultural venues like the Diversionary Theatre. Residents enjoy access to green spaces and scenic outlooks, ranging from sprawling Balboa Park and historic Pioneer Park to Trolley Barn Park with its canyon views and summer concerts. Overall, Uptown San Diego combines rich historic architecture, local restaurants, a vibrant arts scene, and city convenience.
Craftsman Homes
Diversionary Theatre
Trolley Concerts
Real Estate
Market Overview
Expert Guidance
Your Local Agents
Livability
Walk, Bike & Transit
54
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
39
Bike Score
Minimal Bikeable Infrastructure
54
Transit Score
Excellent Transit
Education
Schools
Old Town Academy K-8 Charter
Charter · Grades K–8
Florence Elementary School
Public · Grades K–5
Grant K-8
Public · Grades K–8
iHigh Virtual Academy
Public · Grades K–6
Getting Around
Public Transit
SDSU - Downtown San Diego (Route 11)
Bus
Downtown San Diego - Old Town (Route 83)
Bus
UCSD Hospital - Euclid Transit Center (Route 3)
Bus
Old Town - University/College (Route 10)
Bus
Fashion Valley - La Mesa (Route 1)
Bus
Downtown San Diego - Kearny Mesa Transit Center (Route 120)
Bus
Mid-City Rapid (Route 215)
Bus
Questions
Frequently Asked
Where is Uptown located in San Diego?
Uptown is located directly north of Downtown San Diego, bordered by Mission Valley to the north and Balboa Park to the east.
Is Uptown a good neighborhood to live in San Diego?
Uptown San Diego features a large selection of housing options, ranging from historic single-family homes and Craftsman bungalows to multi-family residences across smaller neighborhoods like Hillcrest, Mission Hills, and University Heights. Park Boulevard, Adams Avenue, and the central Hillcrest area give residents convenient access to independent restaurants, retail shops, weekly farmers markets, and local parks. Multiple bus routes and direct access to I-5 and the Mission Valley Freeway efficiently connect Uptown to Downtown San Diego and surrounding neighborhoods. Keep in mind the narrow, hilly streets and high visitor traffic can make street parking and navigation challenging during peak evening and weekend hours.
What is Uptown, San Diego known for?
Uptown San Diego is widely recognized for its early 20th-century origins, historic Craftsman and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, and landmarks like the iconic Hillcrest neon sign. Today, the area has lively commercial corridors along University Avenue, Washington Street, and Park Boulevard, featuring local restaurants, independent shops, and arts venues near Balboa Park.
How far is Uptown from downtown San Diego?
Uptown is located approximately 2 miles north of Downtown San Diego.
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