Talmadge, San Diego: Complete Homebuyer & Realtor Guide
Historic Hollywood charm meets San Diego accessibility
About Talmadge, San Diego
Talmadge, San Diego, California is a historically designated neighborhood bordered by Fairmount Avenue to the west, Montezuma Road to the north, Collwood Boulevard to the east, and Monroe Avenue to the south. Located in ZIP code 92115, this mid-city gem was named after silent film stars Norma, Natalie, and Constance Talmadge and features distinctive architecture including Spanish Revival homes and California bungalows. The original Talmadge Park Estates Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 2024.
Families and young professionals are drawn to Talmadge for its unique blend of Hollywood history and practical San Diego living. Located about 7 miles from downtown and 2 miles from San Diego State University, the neighborhood features ridges and canyons that create unofficial green spaces. The community maintains strong neighborhood engagement through the Talmadge Community Council and features the iconic Talmadge traffic circle as its focal point.
Talmadge Real Estate Market 2026
In February 2026, Talmadge home prices were down 12.3% compared to last year, selling for a median price of $965K. Homes sell after an average of 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. Buyers have more negotiating power than in previous years, especially on properties needing updates.
Expect 1-2 competing offers on well-maintained Spanish Revival homes, typically at asking price with standard contingencies and 30-day close for desirable properties near the historic gates.
The median sale price over the last 12 months is $903,450, down 18% from the previous 12 months, reflecting broader San Diego market corrections after pandemic-era peaks.
Source: Redfin / Homes.com, March 2026
Is Talmadge Right for You?
Talmadge, San Diego suits different buyers in different ways. Here’s who thrives here — and who should consider alternatives.
The San Diego Unified School District earns an overall A from Niche, with multiple elementary schools within walking distance including Ibarra Elementary and Euclid Elementary. The neighborhood features safe, sidewalk-lined streets and strong community engagement through regular events.
School assignment depends on SDUSD lottery system, and some homes may need updates for modern family needs like central AC.
Located just 2 miles from San Diego State University with excellent transit access and walkable amenities along El Cajon Boulevard. Historic character appeals to academics, and the community offers intellectual engagement.
Home prices may stretch budgets for early-career academics, parking can be competitive near campus
Single-story bungalows available, walkable access to medical facilities on El Cajon Boulevard, strong sense of community through neighborhood organizations, manageable lot sizes
Limited high-end dining and entertainment options compared to coastal areas, some noise from El Cajon Boulevard traffic
Types of Homes in Talmadge
Talmadge architecture is eclectic, with styles including Spanish Revival, California bungalows, Cape Cod cottages and Normandy Style homes, many designed by renowned architect Cliff May.
Spanish Revival Single-Family Home
Original character features like cove ceilings and hardwood floors, large lots with mature landscaping
May need electrical and plumbing updates, some lack central air conditioning
California Bungalow
More affordable entry point, often updated kitchens and baths, walkable location
Smaller lot sizes, some converted to multi-unit
How to Sell Talmadge to Your Clients
Ideal client match: Families and professionals who want historic character, strong community engagement, and practical access to universities, downtown, and transit—perfect for buyers prioritizing neighborhood charm over trendy amenities.
5 Talking Points
- 1 Listed on National Register of Historic Places in March 2024 – one of San Diego's officially recognized historic neighborhoods
- 2 Walk Score of 80 with excellent transit access (Score: 90) – rare combination in San Diego
- 3 Only 7 miles from downtown and 2 miles from San Diego State University – ideal for commuters and academics
- 4 Active community with Talmadge Community Council and regular neighborhood events
- 5 Western end is designated historic district with significantly lower property taxes
Handling Common Objections
Living in Talmadge, San Diego
- Santa Anna Mexican Food
- Crispy Fried Chicken
- Last Call
- Su Pan Bakery
15+ restaurants · $–$$
- Gem Coffee
- Cafeina Cafe
- DoJo Cafe Mobile Coffee
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Talmadge Roundabout
· neighborhood circle
community gathering spot -
Colina del Sol Park
· regional park
recreation center and trails
- H&L Supermarket
- Chinese Bakery
- Minute Mart
- Community Centre
- Copley-Price Family YMCA
Annual events: Talmadge Community Council meetings · Fair @ 44 farmers market
Schools Near Talmadge, San Diego
Part of San Diego Unified School District with multiple elementary options within walking distance. SDUSD earns an overall A rating from Niche, though individual school performance varies. Families typically apply through the district's lottery system for preferred schools.
Elementary Schools
712m walk from neighborhood center, Math: 38% proficient, Reading: 31% proficient
GreatSchools 2025High Schools
907m walk, Reading: 51% proficient, Math: 18% proficient
GreatSchools 2025Private Schools Nearby
- City Heights Preparatory Charter (K–12 Charter) — 857m walk, serves grades 6–12 with college prep focus
Source: GreatSchools, SDUSD 2025
Commute from Talmadge
Excellent transit access along El Cajon Boulevard with multiple bus routes, though downtown commutes require transfers. Just 2 miles from SDSU makes it ideal for university commuters.
Frequently Asked Questions: Talmadge, San Diego
Answers to the most common questions homebuyers and realtors ask about Talmadge, San Diego, California.
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The median sale price in Talmadge, San Diego is $965K as of February 2026 (Redfin). Buyers typically find Spanish Revival homes and California bungalows with original character features at this price point.
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Yes, Talmadge offers excellent value for buyers seeking historic character with modern accessibility. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2024, it combines architectural significance with practical amenities and strong community engagement.
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Yes, Talmadge is excellent for families. San Diego Unified School District earns an overall A from Niche, multiple elementary schools are within walking distance, and the neighborhood features safe sidewalk-lined streets with active community involvement.
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Ibarra Elementary (712m walk) and Hoover High School (907m walk) serve the area, with City Heights Preparatory Charter as a nearby option. The San Diego Unified School District earns an overall A rating from Niche.
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Talmadge has a Walk Score of 80 (Very Walkable) with excellent transit access. Daily errands can be accomplished on foot along El Cajon Boulevard, which features grocery stores, restaurants, and services within walking distance.
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Living in Talmadge means enjoying historic neighborhood charm with modern convenience—Spanish Revival architecture, tree-lined streets, and active community engagement. Located 7 miles from downtown and 2 miles from SDSU, it offers suburban tranquility with urban access.
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Architecture includes Spanish Revival, California bungalows, Cape Cod cottages and Normandy Style homes, with many designed by renowned architect Cliff May. Prices range from $700K–$1.4M depending on size and condition.
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Yes, Talmadge is considered a safe neighborhood with sidewalk-lined residential streets, active community watch through neighborhood organizations, and good lighting around the historic traffic circle and main areas.
Neighborhoods Near Talmadge
Not sure Talmadge is the right fit? Compare these nearby San Diego neighborhoods.
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Data sources: Redfin, Zillow, California Association of Realtors, US Census ACS 2023, GreatSchools, Walk Score, OpenStreetMap. Content generated 2026. Always verify current market data with a licensed real estate professional.