What $1 Million Buys You in San Diego

If you're exploring the San Diego real estate market, understanding what $1 million can get you is key to making confident decisions.

Based on recent market data, buyers in this price range are seeing more value across suburban neighborhoods, with an increased mix of detached single-family homes and high-end condos offering excellent amenities.

Our analysis shows that $1 million homes currently average around 1,800 to 2,200 square feet, often featuring 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Compared to last year, buyers are getting slightly more space for their money — a reflection of moderating price growth in some zip codes and increased inventory in others.

The most compelling insight from this data is that buyers are gaining negotiation power. While premium coastal properties remain highly competitive, inland areas such as North Park, Scripps Ranch, and Clairemont are offering better price-per-square-foot value. This means that strategic buyers can now access neighborhoods that were once out of reach.

In short: your $1 million stretches further today than it did a year ago. If you’re planning to buy, now’s the time to explore your options — before seasonal demand picks back up.

Key Takeaway: San Diego’s $1M market is diversifying. You can find larger homes inland and high-quality condos near the coast — all while enjoying a market that favors informed buyers.

Sources for the key facts above

• The median home value in the San Diego County as of September 2025 was $916,746, down 2.7 % year-over-year. Zillow

• Median sale price in the city of San Diego was about $936,500 in September 2025, a decline of approx 0.6 % versus last year. Redfin

• For detached single-family homes in the county, median sold price in July 2025 rose to roughly $1,099,000, showing that standalone homes remain highly valued. Compass San Diego Housing Market

• The median listing price per square foot in June 2025 for the county was about $602 / sq ft. Realtor

• Homes listed under $1 M in the county still number in the thousands (e.g., over 5,800 homes under $1 M as of recent listings). Movoto Real Estate