Mira Mesa - San Diego, CA

Mira Mesa was used as a test site by the US Military during WWII. In 1969 a housing boom occurred in the area, resulting in one of the first urban sprawls along the I-15 corridor. After the 1990s, Mira Mesa experienced massive expansion to accommodate the growing number of residents.

Mira Mesa benefits from being a fairly tight-knit community with the Mira Mesa Street Fair in the summer, a Fourth of July parade and a host of other events and activities. Although more inland than other San Diego enclaves, the neighborhood has the laid back vibe characteristic of the SoCal region.

The neighborhood's large ethnic population is reflected in an array of cuisines and flavor from all over the world. A quaint and casual spot, Naseem's Bakery and Kabobs serves up large portions of lamb kabobs and luscious cream puffs with rave reviews about their food and service. Another establishment, Pho Cow Cali Express further characterizes Mira Mesa as this establishment dishes out huge amounts of Vietnamese pho, grilled meats, and eggrolls on the cheap. The neighborhood also has classic sandwich shops such as Wich Addiction and Bale French sandwiches.

Mira Mesa holds its share of places to grab a selection of drinks. Tapioca Heaven pours a ton of flavors and options for boba, Thai tea and coffee drinks, for around 4 bucks each. Or for a caffeine fix, drive through Papa's Kaffe Gourmet for an organic quiche and quality espresso.

The neighborhood's nightlife runs less wild than the city of San Diego, but still puts on a good time at lounges, wine bars, and dives. Whether in the mood for down-home or upscale, Mira Mesa has a place for your evening vibe.

Check out Vinavanti Urban Winery and Tasting Room or The WineSellar and Brasserie if you crave some vino and fancy plates. Both benefit from wide selections, delectable food pairings and intimate atmospheres. More casual, youthful options include hookah bars, such as Fusion Lounge. A DJ spins every Tuesday and Thursday to add a bit of oomph to the glowing coals and relaxing aura. For a more lively evening, hang out at locally-loved Tom Cat Bar and Grill to watch the game or play pool while you sip a draft beer. Another local hangout is Callahan's Pub where residents go for Wing Wednesday and makes a great place for people watching.

Running east to west, Mira Mesa Blvd serves as the main road between interstates 805 and 15. Unfortunately, this means heavy traffic for residents and commuters. Other main roads include Camino Ruiz, running north-south the entire length of the area, connecting military personnel to Miramar. Driving won't hold you up unless you commute frequently on the aforementioned freeways. Around town, you can easily park in one of Mira Mesa's ample lots or convenient street meters. Driving simply is the best way to get around since walking and biking have limitations in the area. If you don't own a car, cabs and Uber can pick you up in minutes.

For public transportation, San Diego Transit and Metropolitan Transit System run buses and DART shuttles, although the network is not extensive. Unfortunately, the trolley does not run through this neighborhood; however, you can take the bus to the parts of San Diego to connect to it. Public transportation can be useful around the neighborhood, but it's less convenient when going to other neighborhoods of the city - it will take you about an hour to get to downtown San Diego.

The neighborhood holds many lush parks for recreation and exercise. A large area for kids big and small, Breen Park has two playgrounds, a basketball court, and welcomes dogs. Adults can enjoy the park as well, with a large trail for running and jogging. Bring the whole family for a BBQ under the gazebo on one of the cement tables.

Maddox Park mainly serves as a play area for dogs, but also has sand and equipment for kids and fields for sports matches. Since it is on the smaller side, come between 4:30 and 7:30 PM with your dog for puppy play time, or during the off hours for recreation.

A more intimate and quiet visit can be had at Mesa Viking Park. You can do drills and reps for fitness, take a quick nap or have an afternoon jump on the playground’s slides and obstacles.

Living costs are similar to, but slightly lower, than San Diego. You will pay an average of $1,300 per month for a one bedroom apartment. The price for gas costs an average of $2.97, just above the national average of $2.60. Also, it costs $5 to get to Downtown San Diego and a beer will set you back around $6. With job opportunities in biotech, pharmaceuticals and beyond, Mira Mesa can be an affordable, comfortable neighborhood to settle into.

Mira Mesa holds many stores, but doesn't character itself as a shopper's paradise; expeditions for clothing and goods should be made to Downtown San Diego or Pacific Beach. The neighborhood provides locals with standard chains such as Target, Marshalls, Best Buy and the like for most shopping needs.

For groceries, the area includes Vons and Trader Joe’s. Imported goods are sold at H Mart and Azteca Mexican. Ariana Produce stands out for locals - this Middle Eastern market serves from an impressive meat counter and stocks interesting items on its shelves. Residents appreciate the one-man operation's quality cuts of halal meat and complimentary tea. Mira Mesa High School hosts a farmer's market on Tuesday evenings, selling local and organic produce and more.