ESCONDIDO

Located in a long valley in the coastal mountains of Southern California, the beauty is hard to compare. With rolling hills and rich earth full of avocado and citrus trees, Escondido provides a bit of country just moments from the city. Escondido, which means hidden in Spanish is truly one of the best-kept secrets in California. Located 18 miles inland, 100 miles south of Los Angeles and 30 miles northeast of San Diego, Escondido is a suburban paradise within reach of big city living.

As a community abundant with various economic choices, we find a diverse community brought together as a homogenous mix of culture and economics. Small homes mixed together with palatial estates make Escondido unique among Southern California neighborhoods.

With eight parks, two lakes, a sports center, golf courses, restaurants, premier healthcare facilities, wineries and some of the best shopping in North County it is no wonder the residents of Escondido would like to keep this community hidden. North County Fair Mall, one of the largest malls in San Diego, is home of some of the best known retailers situated all in one multi level mall centrally located in Escondido.

The Escondido Center for the Performing Arts is at the centerpiece of this community bringing world-class entertainment to the North County. Culture abounds with the new Mingei gallery and Queen Califias Magical Circle, a sculpture garden in Kit Carson Park donated by the late internationally renowned artist Niki de Saint Phalle.

Escondido has received acclaim as a retirement paradise in a recent Money Magazine article entitled Best Places in the West in which to retire. Additionally it was also noted as a Kid-Friendly City for the broad range of youth programs available. Escondido also received the honor of being named as number 8 among the list of Top 10 cities for Government.

With 27 public schools, 3 charter schools and 11 private schools Escondido offers a wealth of education to its young residents.

With Inland North San Diego County emerging as a regional economic leader in the forefront of job development and new industry, Escondido is no slouch. It continues to be a hotbed for job opportunities and economic growth.

With a population of approximately 138,000, and a median age of 31.5 Escondido continues to grow at a rapid pace. Over 45,000 housing units exist in this town, which claims a median income of $49,649. New housing developments are popping up all over and Southern Californians are flocking to this area as a place to get your moneys worth in a rising real estate market.

Escondido is not just a good economic choice, but it is also a fun spot. Points of interest such as the San Diego Wild Animal Park bring visitors from all over California to visit this town. Originating as an endangered species breeding facility for the San Diego Zoos large animals, the 1,800-acre park is now home to more than 3500 animals, including elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, zebras and giraffes. Opened to the public on May 10, 1972, the San Diego Wild Animal Park is a unique adventure. Set against the native habitat of the San Pasqual Valley, the Park also features botanical gardens.

When your explorations of nature are done have no fear because nightlife abounds in Escondido with fine dining and nearby local casinos. Facilities such as the famed Lawrence Welk Resort offer theater, golf courses and various sport facilities for family fun.

Reveling in the sense of community spirit embodied in Escondido, their now familiar New Years Eve event was born. First Night Escondido is North County's largest annual New Year's event. A no-alcohol street party where for the single price of a ticket you have free rein to enjoy the transformation of the downtown area into the set for a major celebration with local and national bands playing on 13 specially constructed stages as well as the best of restaurant and vendor foods, hands-on art activities for all ages, and two dazzling fireworks displays. Now in its tenth year, First Night Escondido has grown to be North County's premiere celebration of community, the arts, and the New Year.

There are only a handful of communities that actually make you feel like you belong. Without a doubt, Escondido leads the pack as a great place to live and work in San Diego County.

Escondido Area Links