Oceanside is a coastal city located on California’s South Coast in northern San Diego County. As of the 2020 census, the city had an estimated population of 180,742, making it the third-largest city in San Diego County, after San Diego and Chula Vista.
Population
The population of Oceanside was 175,742 at the 2010 census and grew to an estimated 180,742 as of 2020. It is the third largest city in San Diego County. The city has grown steadily over the years with the population increasing 15.5% from 2000 to 2010. Oceanside is home to many military personnel and their families due to its proximity to Camp Pendleton.
Attractions
Some of the top attractions in Oceanside include:
- Oceanside Pier – this wooden pier extends nearly 2,000 feet over the Pacific Ocean and is a popular spot for fishing, walking, and sightseeing. Learn more on Wikipedia.
- Oceanside Harbor and Marina – this harbor features boat slips, shops, restaurants, boat rentals, and hosts sailing regattas and other water events. Visit the Harbor’s website.
- California Surf Museum – this museum documents the history and culture of surfing in California with exhibits, collections, and events. Visit the Surf Museum’s website.
- Mission San Luis Rey de Francia – founded in 1798, this historic Spanish mission is open for tours and hosts an annual Festival of the Bells. Learn more at the Mission’s website.
- Buccaneer Beach – located next to the Oceanside Harbor, this sandy beach features volleyball courts, picnic areas, and a playground. Learn more on the city’s website.
Economy and Major Employers
Oceanside has a diverse economy including military, manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, and retail sectors. Some of the top employers in Oceanside are:
- Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base – provides jobs for military and civilian personnel (Official website)
- Tri-City Medical Center – provides medical services and employs over 1,500 people (Official website)
- MiraCosta College – a community college that employs over 1,000 faculty and staff (Official website)
- Oceanside Unified School District – operates 23 schools with over 3,000 staff (Official website)
- Genentech – biotechnology company with a manufacturing facility in Oceanside (Company website)
Agriculture, including avocado and citrus crops, contributes over $100 million annually to Oceanside’s economy. Tourism centered around the city’s beaches, harbor, and attractions also provides significant economic impact. Retail is another major sector with shopping centers and auto dealerships generating sales tax revenue.
Sports
Oceanside is home to the San Diego Surf professional soccer club that plays at the Del Mar Arena. The Surf compete in the USL Championship league, which is the second tier of the American soccer pyramid. Visit the San Diego Surf website.
Local Government
Oceanside is governed by a City Council/City Manager form of government. The City Council consists of the Mayor and four City Council members elected at-large to four-year terms. The Oceanside City Council meets every first and third Wednesday of each month. Residents can find information and contact details for the Mayor and City Council members on the city government website.
Visitor and Tourism Information
The Visit Oceanside website provides information on attractions, lodging, dining, and events for visitors. The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce also operates a California Welcome Center in downtown Oceanside to assist tourists.
History
Oceanside was incorporated in 1888 and developed as a beach town known for its sand mines and railroad junction. In the 1920s, agriculture and commercial fishing fueled the local economy. The establishment of Camp Pendleton in 1942 transformed Oceanside into a military town.
Significant growth occurred after 1970 with the construction of Interstate 5 and Hwy 78. Oceanside annexed several northern communities in the 1970s, increasing the city’s size and population. Today Oceanside is home to over 180,000 residents and a popular tourist destination in San Diego County.