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San Diego’s Historic Neighborhoods:
The Affordable, Walkable Communities We Already Have
September/October 2024
 Customers enjoying outdoor dining at the Big Kitchen Cafe, a community center and diner that has anchored Greater Golden Hill since the early 70s |
Urban planners and city leaders say we need to create more affordable, walkable communities. These are neighborhoods where residents can stroll to local shops, cafes, schools, and parks, all while enjoying the charm of a close-knit environment. But, wait—San Diego already has these communities in abundance. They’re our historic neighborhoods.
San Diego’s historic districts, such as Golden Hill, Sherman Heights, and South Park, are not only rich in architectural and cultural heritage; they also offer some of the city’s most affordable housing options. These neighborhoods were built when the car was not yet king, resulting in a naturally walkable urban fabric that has stood the test of time.
Walking through these neighborhoods, it’s easy to see why they’ve become so desirable. The streets are often lined with mature trees and the historic homes boast unique character and craftsmanship that newer developments often lack. Sidewalks are wide, and streets are scaled to people rather than vehicles. Small businesses and community hubs are often just around the corner, making it easy for residents to run errands, dine out, or meet friends without needing to get in the car.
Yet, despite their charm and functionality, these neighborhoods don’t always receive the recognition they should. They deserve to be held up as models of urban planning. Instead, they’re often overlooked, or even sacrificed to the wrecking ball in favor of new developments devoid of authentic character. New formulaic developments may promise walkability, but they almost always lack the sense of place and affordability of actual old neighborhoods. Preservation of these historic areas is not just about maintaining their architectural integrity; it’s also about protecting the naturally occurring affordable housing that already exists within them.
Investing in and preserving these neighborhoods is one of the most sustainable ways to address the city’s housing needs. By maintaining and enhancing the walkable infrastructure that’s already in place, San Diego can support its residents' needs without the environmental and social costs that often accompany the large-scale new developments, which are almost always priced at market rate.
In a time when affordability and walkability are said to be top priorities, it’s crucial to recognize that San Diego’s historic neighborhoods are already providing these benefits. Protecting and revitalizing these areas not only honors our past but also secures a sustainable, affordable future for the city and its diverse residents. Let’s not overlook the solutions we already have. Let’s make the most of them.
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