333 movers in San Marcos
What to know when moving to San Marcos, CA
San Marcos at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 44.2% of residents are renters and the median household income is $93,065.
- The Major Draw:
- California State University-San Marcos adds educational value to the area.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 11.8%, some residents may face financial challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.7% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $2,078 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
San Marcos has a population of 46,825 and a strong educational presence, with 34.9% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The city is characterized by a mix of homeowners and renters, with 44.2% of households renting their homes. However, the community faces a poverty rate of 11.8%, which may impact some residents.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for extensive public transit options, as only 0.7% of residents use it.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $2,078, which reflects the local demand for housing.
- Median home value is $714,700, indicating a strong real estate market.
- 34.9% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to community education levels.
- Poverty rate is 11.8%, suggesting economic diversity among residents.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In California, the property crime rate is 1,764 per 100,000 people, which is 14% higher than the national average. The violent crime rate stands at 415.5 per 100,000, about 27.7% higher than the national rate.
- Property crime: 1,764 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9
- Violent crime: 415.5 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3
- Notable trend: Property crime has decreased by 26.1% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for California).
Schools & Higher Ed
San Marcos has access to 16 postsecondary institutions in the nearby region, including both California State University-San Marcos and Palomar College.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 16
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 15
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
San Diego County receives about 12.1 inches of rain annually, with roughly 50 rainy days each year. Most of the rainfall occurs in winter, totaling 7.3 inches, while summer sees minimal precipitation at only 0.3 inches.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park - 4.7 stars (28,341 reviews)
- Double Peak Park - 4.8 stars (1,693 reviews)
- Felicita County Park - 4.7 stars (1,325 reviews)
- Sunset Park - 4.7 stars (1,317 reviews)
Source: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In San Diego County, the unemployment rate is 4.4%, with a labor force of approximately 1,678,915. The county has around 1,604,783 employed individuals.
- Unemployment rate: 4.4% (December 2025)
- Employed: 1,604,783
- Labor force: 1,678,915
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
