What’s Happening in the South Park & Golden Hill Real Estate Market?

As of fall 2025, the South Park & Golden Hill housing market is active, with nearly 100 homes on the market and strong buyer demand continuing to push prices upward. If you’re considering buying or selling in South Park or Golden Hill, here’s what the latest numbers reveal—and what they mean for your next move. As a local Realtor with over two decades of experience, Melina Rissone provides insight into these trends and what they mean for both buyers and sellers.

These two neighborhoods in San Diego’s 92102 zip code are among the city’s most distinctive communities, blending historic charm with urban convenience. Known for their Craftsman homes, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Downtown and Balboa Park, these neighborhoods have become a go-to destination for buyers looking for character and lifestyle at a more accessible price than La Jolla or North Park.

Current Market Snapshot for 92102

Active Listings: 93

Median Price: $749,000
Average Price: $872,080
Median Beds/Baths: 3 bed, 2 bath
Average Days on Market (DOM): 33
Typical Price per SqFt: $800–$900

With a median price under $750K, South Park and Golden Hill offer relative affordability compared to San Diego’s overall median of around $930K, while still delivering strong long-term appreciation. Three-bedroom, two-bath homes dominate the listings, and many feature historic details that draw buyers who want something different from newer tract homes.

Why South Park and Golden Hill Stand Out

Location and lifestyle are the biggest drivers in these neighborhoods. South Park is beloved for its independent shops, local cafes, and walkable streets. Golden Hill offers stunning views of Downtown and Coronado, as well as easy access to the I-5 and 94 freeways. Both neighborhoods are minutes from Balboa Park, making them attractive to families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Unlike the surrounding areas that are dominated by condos and townhomes, South Park and Golden Hill offer a larger share of single-family homes, many of them historic Craftsman, Spanish, or mid-century styles. Buyers who value charm and community are often willing to pay a premium for these homes, especially when they’ve been updated with modern amenities while retaining original details.

Pricing Trends in Fall 2025

Median prices are holding just under $750K, but the average just above $870K reflects the higher-end sales in the area. Renovated homes on desirable streets often list well above $1 million, while smaller or fixer-upper properties continue to provide entry points under $700K.

Compared to University City (median $778K) or North Park (hovering just above $950K), 92102 still offers a great deal of value. Yet demand remains strong, driven by buyers who’ve been priced out of coastal neighborhoods but still want central access and historic character. With an average of only 33 days on market, competitively priced homes are moving relatively quickly.

Price Per Square Foot

Homes in South Park and Golden Hill typically sell for $800 to $900 per square foot, depending on the property’s age, condition, and location within the neighborhood. Renovated homes closer to Balboa Park or with panoramic views can push higher, while smaller condos or homes in need of significant repairs tend to sell at the lower end.

This pricing reflects the neighborhoods’ desirability as well as the scarcity of historic homes in central San Diego. Buyers don’t care solely about square footage; they’re buying walkability, charm, and access to some of the city’s best cultural and recreational amenities.

What Buyers Should Know

For buyers, competition in 92102 remains steady. Three-bedroom homes under $800K are especially popular, attracting multiple offers when they’re well-maintained or recently updated. Buyers should come prepared with pre-approval in hand, as sellers are far more likely to take offers seriously when financing has already been vetted.

It’s also important to budget for maintenance and repairs. Historic homes often come with higher upkeep costs, from roofing and plumbing to electrical updates. Setting aside 1%–2% of the home’s value each year for maintenance is wise. Still, many buyers view this as an investment in preserving a home with character and long-term value. If you’re looking for a home in South Park and Golden Hill, Melina Rissone has the local expertise to help find you a home that perfectly suits your needs.

What Sellers Should Expect

For sellers, the outlook in South Park and Golden Hill remains positive. Buyer demand is consistent, and the unique character of the neighborhoods means homes here attract strong attention from both local buyers and out-of-state relocations.

However, variety is a defining feature of 92102, which makes pricing strategy critical. Craftsman and Spanish-style homes in good condition often outperform the market, while homes needing extensive renovations may sit longer unless priced attractively. With buyers comparing options in North Park, Golden Hill, and even Mission Hills, competitive pricing and standout marketing are essential.

Professional staging, high-quality photography, and marketing that highlights walkability, community feel, and proximity to Balboa Park can help listings stand out. Sellers who invest in presentation are often rewarded with faster sales and stronger offers. Melina can help you market your home in a way that accentuates its best features.

Market Outlook: Why Timing Matters

San Diego home prices have trended upward for over a decade, and South Park and Golden Hill have kept pace with the rest of the city. With steady demand and limited inventory of historic homes, 92102 is likely to remain competitive. While interest rates fluctuate, the fundamentals—central location, unique character, and lifestyle appeal—keep demand steady.

For buyers, waiting could mean higher prices and fewer options. For sellers, steady demand provides opportunities, but pricing strategically and presenting the home well will remain key to success.

How to Approach the Market with Confidence

Whether buying or selling in South Park or Golden Hill, here are practical steps to move forward:

Buyers: Get pre-approved, understand your monthly budget including taxes and maintenance, and be ready to act quickly when the right property appears.
Sellers: Invest in staging and presentation, work with a Realtor who understands the nuances of 92102, and price competitively based on recent comparable sales.
Both: Stay informed about neighborhood-level trends. Even within 92102, values can shift significantly between South Park, Golden Hill, and adjacent areas.

South Park & Golden Hill Market Q&A

Is South Park in San Diego a good place to live?
Yes—South Park is highly walkable, filled with independent shops and cafes, and minutes from Balboa Park and Downtown. It’s especially popular with families and professionals who value character homes and a tight-knit community.

What is the median home price in Golden Hill in San Diego?
As of fall 2025, the median price across 92102 (including Golden Hill) is $749,000. Renovated homes in prime locations often sell above $900K, while smaller homes or condos can trade for less.

How competitive is the 92102 housing market?
With average days on market just over 30, homes priced correctly tend to move quickly. Buyers should be prepared with financing, and sellers should expect steady interest when homes are presented well.

Final Thoughts

The South Park and Golden Hill housing markets are among the most unique in San Diego. With their blend of historic homes, central location, and strong community feel, these neighborhoods offer both buyers and sellers a wealth of opportunity.

At a median price of $749K and an average just over $872K, 92102 provides relative affordability compared to many central San Diego neighborhoods, while maintaining strong long-term value. With steady demand and limited inventory, now is a smart time to make a move—whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or selling to capture equity.

If you’re planning a transition in South Park or Golden Hill, reach out today. Melina Rissone can help you navigate the market, create a tailored strategy, and make sure you achieve your real estate goals.

Other Market Update Blogs:

Melina Rissone, Associated Real Estate Broker Coldwell Banker Global Luxury, Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Real Estate Collaboration Specialist – Divorce (RCS-D) in San Diego. I help people going through divorce in San Diego figure out what to do with the house—whether you're ready to sell now or just need a neutral opinion. I help seniors looking to retire in San Diego figure out what to do with the house—whether you're ready to sell now or just need a neutral opinion.

Book a Consultation

Melina Rissone

Having sold properties for more than 20 years and earning various prestigious awards throughout the course of her career, Melina Rissone has more than earned her reputation as one of San Diego's most skilled and trustworthy real estate brokers selling homes and luxury condominiums. Her loyal clientele would share that Melina brings structure and planning to chaos. She specializes in supporting her clients and their referrals; families and individuals going through divorce and seniors and active adults planning their moves and financial decisions during their retirement years.

Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing certified.

Certified Senior Advisor by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors
Cartus Network Inventory Specialist and Cartus Network Marketing Specialist since 2015.
RCS-D Designation, a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist for Divorce.
SRES Certification through NAR is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist certification.
Melina is bilingual in English and German.
Recognized as the Top 4% of all real estate brokers in San Diego County in 2021 and the Top 3% of Coldwell Banker International.
Coldwell Banker Presidents Elite Award.
Recognize as the Top 2% of Coldwell Banker West in 2024.
Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and Institute of Luxury Home Marketing Certified.

We were looking to buy a place in SD Northpark and luckily we met up with Melina to show us multiple condo. She is very friendly, personable and very professional agent. We would not hesitate to work with her again.
-Chau N.