San Diego, California

San Diego is a major city located in the U.S. state of California. With a population of 1,425,976 as of 2020, it is the second largest city in California and the eighth largest city in the United States.

Population

As mentioned above, San Diego has a population of 1,425,976 as of the 2020 census. It is part of the San Diego–Tijuana conurbation, the second-largest transborder agglomeration between the U.S. and a bordering country after Detroit–Windsor.

History

San Diego was named after Saint Didacus of Alcalá, a Spanish Franciscan friar. It was founded as a mission on July 16, 1769 by Gaspar de Portolà. In 1821, San Diego became part of Mexico after Mexico gained independence from Spain. The City of San Diego was incorporated in 1850, just a year after the United States acquired California after defeating Mexico in the Mexican–American War.

Economy

Some of the key industries that drive San Diego’s economy include military, defense, tourism, international trade, manufacturing, and research/biotech. The city is home to the largest naval fleet in the world. Major employers in San Diego include the US Navy, Crossroads Digital, Kratos Defense, and Pfizer. For more information on the local economy, visit the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Attractions and Landmarks

Some of the top attractions and landmarks in San Diego include:

• Balboa Park – Urban cultural park with museums, performing arts venues, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
• San Diego Zoo – One of the largest and most renowned zoos in the world
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park – Site of the first Spanish settlement in California with historic buildings and museums
• USS Midway Museum – Aircraft carrier museum docked in San Diego Harbor
• San Diego Central Library – Striking modern downtown library with curved dome
• Mission Beach – Beach neighborhood featuring Belmont Park amusement park
• 32.71573, -117.15726 – San Diego Zoo
• 32.70637, -117.15363 – USS Midway Museum
• 32.73371, -117.14488 – San Diego Central Library

Public Transportation

Public transportation in San Diego is provided by the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System which operates buses, trolleys, and commuter rail. The trolley system includes 3 lines known as the Blue, Green, and Orange lines. For schedules, routes, and fare information, visit the MTS website.

Sports Teams

San Diego is home to several professional sports teams including:

• San Diego Padres – Major League Baseball team
• Los Angeles Chargers – National Football League team (plays in Los Angeles but headquartered and founded in San Diego)
• San Diego Loyal SC – Professional soccer team in USL Championship
• San Diego Gulls – Ice hockey team in American Hockey League

County and Local Government

San Diego is part of San Diego County. The county seat is located in San Diego at 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101. Phone: (619) 531-4000.

The city government website can be found here. Address: 202 C St, San Diego, CA 92101. Phone: (619) 236-6000.

Education

Public education in San Diego is provided by the San Diego Unified School District, the second largest school district in California. There are also many private and charter schools. Higher education options include University of California, San Diego, San Diego State University, Point Loma Nazarene University, and others.

Additional Local Resources

Here are some additional useful resources for visitors and residents of San Diego:

• San Diego Tourism Authority – Official destination marketing organization for San Diego
• City of San Diego Facebook – Get updates directly from the city government
• FOX 5 San Diego – Local news station
• San Diego Reader – Weekly newspaper covering local news, events, and culture