Despite its secluded location, Escondido is catching on, with more people moving to the city than ever. Spanish for ¨hidden,” Escondido is tucked into a valley surrounded by rock hills just north of San Diego. Since 2000, it has seen population growth of nearly 10 percent.
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History
Spain controlled Escondido from the late 18th century to the early 19th century. The countrys many local missions were established with the intention of converting the native population. After Mexico won its independence from Spain, the land was divided into ranchos before eventually becoming part of the United States. By the time of the Southern California Land Boom of the 1880s, a large number of non-Spanish-speaking people relocated to Escondido.
Escondido was incorporated as a city in 1888. Soon thereafter it became part of the Santa Fe and Southern Pacific railroads routes. The opening of US Route 395 in 1930 sparked even more economic growth in the community, which was known for its muscat grapes industry.
Agriculture continued to flourish in the community following construction of a dam in the late 1800s. However, housing developments eventually displaced many orange, lemon, olive, walnut, and avocado orchards.
Escondido Today
With a population just over 140,000 Escondido features a growing downtown. In recent years, the citys core commercial district has seen the opening of an increasing number of restaurants, cafes and galleries, among other businesses.
The Grape Day Park features a civic center and the California Center for the Arts, which boasts two theaters a visual arts museum, an educational complex and a conference center.
The city has 15 parks as well as the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, sister facility to the famous San Diego Zoo.
Geography and Climate
Escondido Creek divides the city, passing through downtown before emptying into the San Elijo Lagoon. There are three lakes in or near Escondido, including Dixon Lake, Lake Hodges, and Lake Wohlford. All three permit boating and fishing.
Escondidos Mediterranean climate offers warm summers and cool, wet winters. Since it is set inland, it tends to be warmer than nearby coastal cities, such as San Diego and Oceanside. Yearly precipitation averages 15 inches, but varies significantly each year.
Economy
Most residents work in education, healthcare and social services, while others work in retail, construction, professional, food services, and manufacturing. Top employers include the Palomar Medical Center, Escondido Union School District, City of Escondido, Nordstrom and The Home Depot.
Education
In addition to the Escondido Union School District and the Escondido Union High School District, the city is served by the San Pasqual Union School District. Altogether it has 19 elementary, five middle and seven high schools.
Real Estate
The city continues to grow at a rapid pace with new communities, such as Hidden Trails, appearing at the end of East Valley Parkway. Its homes range across a variety of architectural styles and prices and are located in traditional neighborhoods and planned communities.
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