KENSINGTON

37.9105° N, 122.2802° W

Welcome to Kensington

Small-town charm and vintage style in a historic California neighborhood
 
 
As one of San Diego’s most established neighborhoods, Kensington boasts a rich history. The town began with two sisters, so it is no surprise that Kensington is now known for its family-centric feel and strong community ties. Abby Hitchcock and Mary Gleason owned the first land and filed the first official map of the area, and since those early days, Kensington has preserved the peaceful streets and close-knit feel. The town was designed with children in mind, and the layout is one large cul-de-sac, engineered specifically so kids could enjoy carefree playtime sans the noise and threat of traffic.

Today, Kensington’s eclectic, colorful streets allow residents the freedom to express themselves. Candy-colored houses dot the pretty residential streets, and a vibrant, bohemian current runs through the outstanding culinary scene. Kensington is a dog-friendly town, and pups are invited to most cafes and bistros — in fact, every Kensington restaurant features alfresco dining. Homes here are famous for Richard Requa designs and Spanish Revival styles, and estates from the early 1900s have been impeccably restored to their former glory.
 

What to Love

  • Close-knit, neighborly atmosphere
  • Thriving restaurant scene
  • Historical significance
  • Distinctive architecture
  • The family-centric vibe and excellent schools

Local Lifestyle

Kensington is known not only as one of the best places to live in San Diego but, in fact, as the one true neighborhood within the vibrant city. This sweet spot is geared toward families and provides adorable parks, well-maintained playgrounds, and a bevy of activities. Walkability is high, thanks to the inventive and pedestrian-focused layout.

The culinary scene in Kensington is a bastion of global flavors, stylish dining rooms, and chef-driven fare. Kensington residents can find everything they need within the neighborhood, but nearby attractions, like the San Diego Zoo, are just minutes away.
 

Dining, Shopping & Entertainment

With a perfect blend of upscale elegance and colorful, retro style Madi is a breezy spot for brunch. Fresh, vibrant flavors complement the classic coastal recipes, and guests enjoy everything from pineapple kale mimosas to eggs benedict topped with ripe avocado. Nearby Et Voila! French Bistro provides modern French cuisine and a charming dining room, while the Kensington Cafe captures the town’s laid-back nature and chic vintage style. The dimly lit space at Bleu Boheme creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for a cozy dinner. The menu includes classic Parisian fare, like moules frites, French onion soup, escargot, and incredible charcuterie boards.
 

Things to Do

Kensington provides residents with a lovely backyard setting and whimsical sights. Kensington Park is a delightful spot for afternoon playdates or a morning stroll. This is where you will find the iconic neon pink Kensington Sign stretched out over Adams Avenue. One of only two San Diego neon signs to remain from the 1950s, the Kensington sign represents this charming spot's bright retro style and colorful community.

The Kensington-Norman Heights Branch Library is a favorite among families and features story hours and kid-centric activities. Balboa Park, in nearby North Park, is a sprawling oasis featuring playgrounds, lush landscaping, museums, and even the San Diego Zoo. You will also find a host of cultural excursions here, including the interactive San Diego Air & Space Museum and the esteemed San Diego Museum of Art.
 

Schools

Kensington provides several stellar educational opportunities for students through the public schools in the San Diego Unified School District and private academies, including:

 

Overview for KENSINGTON, CA

5,348 people live in KENSINGTON, where the median age is 48 and the average individual income is $74,740. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

5,348

Total Population

48 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$74,740

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for KENSINGTON, CA

KENSINGTON has 2,430 households, with an average household size of 2. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in KENSINGTON do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 5,348 people call KENSINGTON home. The population density is 7,938.416 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

5,348

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

48

Median Age

52.15 / 47.83%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
2,430

Total Households

2

Average Household Size

$74,740

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in KENSINGTON, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby KENSINGTON. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
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