Each year visitors flock to the exciting small-town destination of Del Mar. With easy access to beaches and lagoons, luxury shopping with a Pacific backdrop, and a roster of events throughout the year, living in Del Mar offers a lifestyle rich in activities and amenities. When considering if this town is right for you, consider the pros and cons below.
Pros of Living in Del Mar
A major perk of Del Mar is the Pacific Ocean right nearby. The scenic views of shimmering waves engulf the coastal town while beaches offer limitless outdoor recreation. These views are a glorious backdrop to upscale shopping and popular events that the community hosts throughout the year.
The beach is a walk away
Whether interested in lounging along the shoreline or eager to catch a wave, the beaches at Del Mar are the gem of this town. One of the most popular spots is Dog Beach, also known as the River Mouth. Like its name suggests, dogs racing across the sand are a common sight on its broad shore. Although shallow sandbars and unpredictable currents make swimming difficult, the otherwise protected area is great for wading in with children or playing a game of volleyball.
Beachgoers also love visiting the northern half of Del Mar City Beach. This easily accessible beach is great for swimming, surfing, and picnicking. Visitors can also relax at Powerhouse Park and Seagrove Park, located along the northern shore. The southern half of Del Mar City Beach connects to Torrey Pines, which visitors can walk to from its shores almost all day long. The scenic bluffs and quiet dirt path make it a favorite with walkers and joggers.
Luxury shopping
Residents living in Del Mar are surrounded by luxury shopping with Pacific Coast views. The Del Mar Plaza is particularly breathtaking. The open-air shopping center features galleries, upscale shopping, and an ornate design with fountains, sculptures, and terraces. Shoppers can also visit Del Mar Highlands Shopping Center for two levels of 70+ specialty shops. For shopping with an old-world charm, the Tudor-style architecture of the Village of Del Mar serves as venues for specialty boutiques.
Events year-round
Del Mar comes to life in the summer with an influx of vacationers. One of the most popular attractions in Del Mar are the horse races at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. From late July to the beginning of September, fans pack the stands to watch skilled riders race around the seaside track. From June to July, the San Diego County Fair graces the Del Mar Fairgrounds with its exciting carnival rides, petting zoo, tasty concessions, and grandstand performers. The town is supported by an active village association that plans several other seasonal and holiday celebrations for the community throughout the year.
Cons of Living in Del Mar
There are some potential downsides to living in Del Mar that buyers should consider. The seaside homes and residential communities come at a steep price. Summer weather can get hot and humid while its small population may feel slow-paced or limiting to some.
High cost of living
It’s no secret that living in Del Mar costs more than the average U.S. city. The cost of living in Del Mar is 167% higher than in the rest of the country, which may be an obstacle to some buyers. Price discrepancies are most evident in housing costs, which are 596% higher than the rest of the United States. Given the town’s more rural and oceanside location transportation costs are the second highest expense at 32% higher than country averages. Expenses related to utilities and groceries are higher as well but heath costs are near country averages.
Hot summers
Most residents and visitors are attracted to Del Mar’s mild winters and temperate climate. While residents never have to worry about snowy weather, the tradeoff comes in the form of hotter summers. Days can top at 90 and 100 degrees which makes beaches an even more coveted amenity. Del Mar can get humid as well, with many days averaging between 40-50% humidity.
Small population
Although the town’s population fluctuates with seasonal visitors, the year-round population totals only 4,200 people. This, coupled with its residential communities and surrounding natural beauty, make for relaxed and quiet living. Buyers interested in a more dynamic community and nightlife scene may feel limited or disconnected by the small population and the privacy of single-family neighborhoods.
Moving to Del Mar
The pros and cons of Del Mar living are greatly influenced by a person’s own lifestyle preferences and interests. Review the advantages and disadvantages of this town with the list below.
- Beaches: Nearby access to quality beaches like The River Mouth and North and South Del Mar City Beach provide surf for swimming, surfing, and cliffside views.
- Shopping: The outdoor shopping centers in Del Mar feature beautiful architectural designs and a Pacific Ocean backdrop for luxury boutiques and stores.
- Events: Large events like the San Diego County Fair and horse racing bring residents and visitors together for summer fun and celebration.
- Cost of living: Home prices and transportation expenses are significantly higher in Del Mar which can be an extra burden for buyers interested in the town.
- Weather: While weather is temperate in cooler months, summer days in the 90s and 100s alongside humidity can be unbearable.
- Population: The small population size can create a less exciting town, especially for those interested in a nightlife scene.
Conclusion
Del Mar’s small-town living offers many perks for residents. Its beaches are outdoor recreation havens suited for all types of beachgoers. This, coupled with great shopping and exciting events, makes it a fun place to live. However, the cost of living is much higher than other cities in the country. Hot summers and a small population can also be stifling. To get a better sense of Del Mar, explore the town with a local professional. If you’re ready to start a Del Mar home search, contact local agents Gillian Gillies and Prentiss Van Den Berg to guide you through it.
Recommended reading: How to Buy a Luxury Home
