Neighborhood Spotlight: Alpine

Alpine is a small, quiet, family-friendly community surrounded by the Cuyamaca Mountains and the Cleveland National Forest in San Diego County.

ABOUT Alpine

The tight-knit community is bordered by the Kumeyaay Nation and Viejes and Sycuan reservations near El Cajon. Alpine is a special place that has a lot of advantages and benefits locals enjoy. Great weather, a reasonable drive to the beach, affordable housing and highly rated schools are just a few of the highlights.

The name “Alpine" was inspired by a Swiss local in the 1880’s who said it reminded her of her native homeland Switzerland. And that’s exactly what you’ll notice when you first see the area for yourself.

What was once home to the Kumeyaay Indians (who inhabited the area for over 12,000 years) is now a special place just over 15,200 residents call home.

AMENITIES IN Alpine

Alpine is a safe, quaint and sparse suburban community filled with young professionals and middle-class families (most of European descent). However there is an emergence of diversity happening here that many find refreshing and is warmly welcomed.

The neighborhood has a small-town country feel with a lot of heart.

It’s rare that you would meet someone in Alpine that said they didn’t love it here. Many residents are afraid of it being discovered and growing too big. But some believe that the already great city could become greater with a little growth. Whatever side of the fence you’re on, this is a very attractive place for anyone who hasn’t heard of it or been here before.

Fairly close to the city of San Diego (but far enough that you can enjoy some peace and quiet and see the stars at night) Alpine offers easy access to the highway and is between 25-45 minutes away from many of the popular parts of San Diego.

Amenities are mostly catered to families and middle-aged adults including food, shopping and a few things to do at night. The town is equipped with local chains such as Albertsons and Rite Aid, but also resident owned small businesses.

Summers here are warm and dry but not as extreme as neighboring mountain and desert areas (such as Ramona or El Cajon). Winters are cool with the occasional rain (mostly between winter months). While snowfall is rare, there is a small amount that can be seen every few years due to its higher elevation areas.

Known for its excellent and highly rated schools Alpine has over 3 elementary schools, one middle school, and is a 15 minute to 25 minute drive to high schools such as Granite Hills and Steele Canyon.

REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS IN Alpine

Alpine is a great place to live, and real estate in Alpine is one of the major reasons why.

Affordable housing is a major draw for many who first learn about the area.

The average price for a single family detached home in Alpine is approximately $617,000 with 70% of its residents owning their home.

Renters make up 30% of the community.

A majority of the real estate in this sparse suburban community is largely made up of 3 to 4 bedroom single family homes.

NEARBY AREAS INCLUDE

El Cajon

Santee

Lakeside

La Mesa

TRANSPORTATION & ACCESSIBILITY

It’s recommended that you drive or own a vehicle in Alpine as most activities are spread apart.

Alpine has easy access to Highway 8 making your commute is easy to other popular areas in San Diego.

It’s about a 20-45 minute drive to many lakes, hiking areas, the beach, and 45 minutes to Downtown San Diego.

There are 6 ways to get from San Diego to Alpine by bus, tram, taxi, car or towncar.

Here are a few options:

Recommended:

Bus, line 888 bus • 1h 55m

Cheapest:

Tram, line 888 bus • 2h 23m

Alternatives

Tram, line 864 bus, line 838 bus • 3h 4m

Taxi • 30 min

Drive • 30 min

Uber • 30 min

TOP THINGS TO SEE & DO NEARBY

Viejas Outlet Center - Viejas outlet center is the closest thing to a mall in Alpine and has enough entertainment to keep you and the family busy. Entertainment includes: roller skating, ice skating, bowling, arcade, shops, and different eateries.

Viejas Mountain - Viejas Mountain is the highest peak in the area and sets the stage for great hiking and other outdoor activities.

Wright's field is also a great hiking and photo spot many locals enjoy.

Lions, Tigers and Bears, a rescue conservatory - offering plenty of educational experiences to the public.

Viejas Casino - offers a large clean modern hotel and casino.

The Cleveland National Forest - A great park with gorgeous views, great hikes and an opportunity to bird watch.

The Alpine Beer Company - One of the best brewers in the area. A great choice for anyone who enjoys beer tasting.

OVERALL IMPRESSION

If you enjoy a little bit of isolation, beautiful scenic views, clean parks and great hikes with a strong family-friendly atmosphere then Alpine is definitely the place for you.

Thinking about buy or selling a home in Alpine? Contact us to get started.

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