Escondido is a city located in northern San Diego County, California. As of the 2020 census, Escondido had a population of 153,811, making it the 26th largest city in California.
Population
Escondido experienced rapid population growth in the 1980s and 1990s along with the rest of inland North County. The population jumped from 73,500 in 1990 to 108,635 in 2000, an increase of nearly 50%. Since then, growth has slowed considerably, with only a 4.7% increase between 2000 and 2010. As of 2019, the California Department of Finance estimated Escondido’s population at 153,811.
Escondido has a diverse population. According to the 2010 census, 60.4% of residents identified as Hispanic or Latino, 32.9% as non-Hispanic white, 4.2% as Asian, 2.7% as African American, 0.8% as Native American, and 3.4% as belonging to some other race or identifying with multiple races.
Economy
Escondido has a diverse economy including agriculture, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, tourism, and more. Some of the major employers in Escondido include:
- Palomar Health – Healthcare network
- City of Escondido – Local government
- San Diego County Office of Education – Public education administration
- NBC Universal – Media and entertainment
Agriculture plays an important role in Escondido’s economy and history. Escondido is located in a fertile valley ideal for avocados, citrus fruits, grapes, and nursery plants. Many wineries are located in the Escondido area along with avocado orchards.
In recent years, Escondido has also become a hub for craft breweries. Popular breweries in Escondido include Stone Brewing, Belching Beaver Brewery, Battlemage Brewing, and Witch’s Brew Pizza.
The city government, Chamber of Commerce, and economic development organizations work to support local business growth and attract new employers to diversify the economy.
Tourism
Escondido offers many attractions for visitors including:
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park – Safari park and zoo
- California Center for the Arts – Performance and visual arts center
- Cruisin’ Grand – Hot rod and classic car show on Friday evenings
- Lakes and parks – Dixon Lake, Lake Wohlford, Daley Ranch recreation area
- Downtown historical sites – California’s oldest library, Victorian homes
- Wineries – Orfila Vineyards, Belle Marie Winery, Mullen Vineyards
- Breweries – See above
Popular annual events that attract visitors include the Grape Day Festival celebrating Escondido’s grape growing heritage, the Cruisin’ Grand classic car shows, and art walks with open studios.
Famous Landmarks
Some of Escondido’s most famous landmarks include:
- California Center for the Arts – Striking contemporary performance and visual arts center.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park – Famous zoo and safari park.
- Grape Day Park – Downtown park named after the annual Grape Day Festival.
- Grand Avenue – Site of the famous Cruisin’ Grand classic car shows on Friday nights.
- Churches – Historic downtown churches such as the First United Methodist Church.
Sports
Escondido is home to the minor league baseball team, the Lake Elsinore Storm, which is a Class A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. The Storm play at the downtown The Diamond stadium.
Popular recreation spots that host youth and adult sports leagues include the East Valley Community Center, Washington Park, and other municipal parks and fields.
Escondido high schools including Orange Glen High School, Escondido High School, and San Pasqual High School compete in CIF sports including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more.