Chargers are essential for everyday devices - but is it safe to leave them plugged in when not in use? Discover what an expert says about energy use and safety.

In the average household, a wide variety of wireless devices require chargers, including phones, tablets, laptops, headphones, keyboards, speakers, and other electronic devices. Depending on the device and your usage habits, it might require daily charging, which means plugging in and unplugging both the charger and the device frequently.

However, many individuals leave the charger plugged in even when they aren't charging anything. While this might seem like a harmless decision, it can have lasting consequences. Use this guide to determine whether you should unplug chargers when not in use or if it's okay to leave them plugged in.

Should You Unplug Your Chargers When Not in Use?

Forgetting to unplug a charger once or twice isn't likely to cause any noticeable differences. However, make a habit of constantly leaving every charger you use plugged into various outlets throughout the home. It can lead to significant consequences for your home, devices, chargers, and wallet.

"I always recommend unplugging chargers when you're not actively using them. Even if a charger isn't connected to a phone or device, it still draws a small amount of electricity just by being plugged into the wall. It might not seem like much on its own, but if you multiply that across every charger and electronic device in your home, it adds up over time," explains a licensed electrician.

Not only does unplugging a charger help to reduce your electric bill and prevent unnecessary spending, but it can also reduce the risk of fire, shorts, and other damage to your home and electronic devices. "Leaving chargers plugged in can pose a fire risk, especially if the wiring inside the charger is low quality or becomes damaged over time. I've seen outlets scorched or short-circuited by cheap third-party chargers that overheat. Even high-quality chargers can overheat in certain conditions, so unplugging them when not in use is just good common sense".

What to Know About Vampire Energy

The concept of vampire energy, also known as phantom load, is often discussed in relation to electronic devices, but merely hearing the term doesn't provide a suitable explanation for what is actually happening.

"Vampire energy (also called phantom load) refers to the electricity that devices consume even when they're turned off or in standby mode. Idle chargers are a classic example - they constantly sip power just by being plugged in. "A single charger might draw only 0.1 to 0.5 watts, but across a year, and especially in households with many devices, it can add up to wasted energy and money."

Other Benefits to Unplugging a Charger

Ultimately, leaving a charger plugged in has only one benefit: you don't need to plug it in again when you need to use it. However, there are several benefits to unplugging your charger, including energy savings, cost savings, fire prevention, and even improved device longevity.

"You do save energy - even if it's just a small amount per device, it's cumulative. Plus, unplugging helps prolong the life of your chargers". "Constant exposure to power, especially in homes with voltage fluctuations, can slowly degrade the internal components of your charger. It's a simple habit that saves electricity, reduces fire risk, and helps your electronics last longer."

Key Takeaways

• Idle chargers consume energy even when not in use, resulting in higher bills and wasted power over time.
• Leaving chargers plugged in increases fire risks and shortens charger lifespan due to overheating and voltage exposure.
• Simple habits and tools can help automate the simple practice of unplugging your chargers.

Tips to Simplify the Habit of Unplugging Chargers

Despite knowing that it is better to unplug their chargers, many individuals continue to leave them plugged in simply out of habit. To counteract this inclination, it's essential to find ways to create new habits, which often starts by simplifying the habit you are trying to build.

• Create a charging station. Find a spot to keep the bulk of your chargers, so you only need to remember to unplug one; this way, you'll remember to unplug all of them.
• Choose energy-efficient chargers and devices. This will minimize passive energy consumption in case you forget to unplug the charger.
• Educate other members of the household. This way, you won't constantly have to unplug chargers while everyone else continues to plug them in and leave them there.
• Group chargers with power strips. Plug multiple chargers into a single power strip that can be turned off when you are done charging the devices or when you leave the area.
• Make unplugging chargers a part of your daily routine. When you go through the usual steps to go to work or go to bed including, unplugging the chargers as a necessary part of the process.
• Invest in smart plugs, smart power strips, or timers. These items can be programmed to turn off or set to operate for specific time intervals before automatically shutting off. This will help ensure that even if you forget to unplug the chargers, they will not be drawing electricity while not in use.

Cut down on the use of these home appliances and devices to save on monthly energy bills.

Modern homes are equipped with a wide variety of appliances and devices that rely on a direct source of electricity. Among them are several known as “energy vampires” because they consume electricity even when they aren’t being used, such as the always-on clock display for a microwave or stove.

According to the National Resources Defense Council, these appliances could cost homes as much as $1.30 to $2.60 in annual electricity costs for every watt of always-on load.¹ The National Renewable Energy Laboratory notes that this works out to about $200 per year² in unnecessary energy expenses for the average home.

Use this guide to discover 7 appliance types that are the biggest household energy vampires and how to reduce your electricity consumption to save on monthly energy bills.

How Appliances Consume Energy When Not in Use

Electronic appliances and devices use power when they are on and being used, but energy vampires continue to drain energy even when they are not in use.

“There are a range of reasons why energy vampires use power even when not in use, including continuous displays such as oven and microwave screens, continuous temperature monitoring, needing to receive a signal for TVs and remotes, or light-activated devices such as automatic night lights,” says Bruce Stewart, president and CEO of Perch Energy. 

If you are unsure whether your appliance or device drains energy when not in use, check this list of common signs that your device or appliance is an energy vampire.

• The device has a continuous display that stays on all the time, like a dishwasher, microwave, or oven.
• The device has an internal clock it uses to tell the time, like a coffeemaker or computer.
• The device constantly monitors temperature or humidity, like a refrigerator, humidifier, or thermostat.
• The device is capable of receiving signals even when it is off, like a TV, gaming console, or Bluetooth-enabled electronics.
• The device has an automatic activation function, like a light-sensing night light or motion-detecting security camera.

The 7 Biggest Energy Vampires

1. TVs and Video Game Consoles

Entertainment devices like televisions and video game consoles use power just by being plugged in. These devices are designed to receive signals from remotes, controllers, wireless speakers, headphones, Bluetooth devices, Wi-Fi, and more. When turned off, the TV or video game console remains in standby mode so it can receive any incoming signals.

Unplugging these electronics when not in use is the best way to cut down on energy waste.

2. Microwaves, Coffeemakers, and Other Small Kitchen Appliances

Kitchens are often full of small appliances designed to make life easier, such as microwaves, coffeemakers, electric kettles, toasters, air fryers, and slow cookers. While each of these appliances uses only a small amount of electricity to power a digital display or internal clock, together, the amount of energy that is needlessly consumed can add up.

Reduce wasted energy by investing in basic appliances without electronic timers or displays, such as old-school toasters and stovetop kettles.

3. Thermostat and HVAC Equipment

The thermostat, air conditioner, furnace, and water heater require a significant amount of energy to function. However, it isn’t usually possible to turn off these appliances without drastically affecting home comfort.

To reduce wasted energy, invest in energy-efficient HVAC equipment and install a smart thermostat to help you avoid using more power than necessary.

4. Computers

Computers are a big part of daily life for many people. They are used for entertainment, school, careers, communication, and more, so going without a computer isn’t the best option. However, computer chargers constantly draw and convert energy for the device, even if the computer isn’t on. Similarly, computers often have a standby mode that allows them to receive signals from controllers, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth devices.

Properly shutting down the computer and unplugging the charger eliminates wasted energy while protecting the computer and all contained information from potential hackers.

5. Freezers and Refrigerators

Storing food until it is ready to be eaten is essential for any functional household. Typically, freezers and refrigerators store food and beverages for long periods, but the necessity of always keeping the freezer and refrigerator turned on leads to a significant amount of energy waste. Unfortunately, this situation cannot be remedied without having an unwelcome effect on your food-storage capabilities.

If you have an upcoming vacation planned, it’s a good idea to use any food in your refrigerator and freezer and then unplug this appliance until you return.

6. Electric Oven

Like a microwave or coffeemaker, electric ovens typically have a built-in clock and digital display to control the appliance. While unplugging the oven prevents unnecessary energy waste, it can be a hassle to pull it out to reach the plug.

Instead, reduce the amount of energy the oven uses when it’s on by batch-cooking meals for the week, so you minimize the number of times the oven is in use. Similarly, after using the oven, leave the oven door open during the colder months of the year to make the most of the excess heat.

7. Phones, Tablets, and Chargers

Phones and tablets are in constant use both inside and outside the home, so it should come as no surprise that these little devices eat up a lot of energy. Typically, they only require two or three hours to charge the battery fully, but they are regularly left to charge overnight. This means that the chargers continue to draw AC power from the home and then work to convert that power to DC, all to provide energy for a device that is already fully charged.

Chargers continue to draw energy even if the phone or tablet is not plugged in, so the best way to cut down on energy waste is to unplug the charger whenever possible and to limit charging time to when you are awake and aware enough to disconnect the device when the battery is full.

How to Reduce Energy Waste

After identifying the energy vampires in your household, you can take steps to mitigate energy drain and reduce the cost of your energy bills. For instance, Stewart suggests a “low effort way to reduce energy bills - alongside exorcising energy vampires - is for homeowners and renters alike to enroll in community solar and save between 5 and 15 percent off annual electricity bills.” Consider these other great methods for reducing household energy waste.

• Connect appliances and devices to an easy-to-access power strip that can be unplugged when the connected electronics are not in use.
• Unplug chargers from the outlet to prevent them from continually converting AC to DC power, even when the battery is fully charged or the device is unplugged.
• Disconnect major appliances when you are going to be away for a week or more.
• Invest in items without a clock or digital display.
• Choose energy-efficient appliances and devices to reduce the average electricity use for the home.
• Consider purchasing items that don’t drain power when not in use, like regular lamps, classic toasters, stovetop kettles, and LED light bulbs.
• Make sure all appliances and devices are working correctly to prevent energy waste.
• Have a home energy audit conducted to identify any problem areas. 

Not every homebuyer wants the biggest house on the block. Some want something simpler, more affordable, and easier to maintain, especially in a market where every dollar counts. That’s where condos come in.

For first-time buyers, they can be a smart way to get into homeownership without stretching your budget. For downsizers, they offer less space to maintain with the flexibility to stay in a great location.

And right now, condos are one of the most buyer-friendly parts of the market.

Condo Inventory Is Up, And That Means More Choice

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), there are 194,000 condos for sale right now. That’s the second highest amount we’ve seen in the last three years (see graph below):

Just remember, this is the national figure. The exact number is going to vary based on where you’re looking to buy. But generally speaking, you have more options and less competition.

You’re not stuck waiting for something to pop up or rushing into an offer just to beat someone else to it. You’ve got plenty to choose from. And if you’re particular about layout, location, or amenities, this is your chance to be selective.

That’s a big shift from the market frenzy of just a few years ago. Compared to early 2022, we’ve got nearly double the condos available now. That gives you more breathing room to find the right fit.

Prices Are Cooling, and Buyers Hold More Negotiating Power

And since there are more for sale, many sellers are more open to negotiating right now. So, you may be able to get a better price. As Realtor.com explains:

“. . . condo buyers in many cities may be able to find sellers who are willing to give concessions and/or sell for less than their asking price.”

Condo prices are starting to ease in many markets. According to Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), condo prices dipped 1.3% in June compared to last year. And over half of the top 100 U.S. metros saw condo prices drop slightly year-over-year.

Data from NAR  shows what the recent dip in prices looks like (see graph below):

That doesn’t just help with affordability, it also shifts the power dynamic. Condo buyers in many markets are now in a position to negotiate on price and ask for concessions, like help with closing costs.

Bottom Line

Condos aren’t just a fallback option. In today’s market, they’re one of the most strategic ways to buy. With more options, softening prices, and more room to negotiate, now could be the right time to make your move.

While homeownership in San Diego still difficult, making the right decision about buying or selling can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're buying a home, downsizing or upsizing your current home, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right agent team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

Could a condo check more boxes than you expected? Talk through your options with us and find out.

Around four years ago, I upgraded to a larger house. Upon his choosing and against my advice, my father sold his condo and we agreed that he could move into my old condo. He's been paying the mortgage on it ever since.

Meanwhile, the loan amount increased, and to reduce the monthly payments, he gave me some money, which I used to pay down the debt. Nowadays, he pays around ⅓ of the market price for renting a similar apartment in the same area.

Now the condo value has doubled in value, and I'm considering selling it and buying a similar one for him, just in a different area, no more than 10 miles from the current one. I'd use the remaining equity amount to reduce my own mortgage.

I have mixed feelings about this, because our relationship has never been open, and he lacks empathy. What should I do...stay or sell?

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You have a sense of what would be best for you financially but have feelings about how to proceed, and it's unclear whether your feelings are from uncertainty about your father's reaction to the idea, or whether you're reconsidering the arrangement altogether.

Depending on the situation, your options sound like they're to either buy a new condo and your father lives in it while paying for the mortgage — keeping things the same — or sell the condo he's living in and discontinue the arrangement altogether.

Look at the last option first. You've mentioned not having the best relationship with your father, and your emphasis on him getting a great rental deal makes me wonder whether the money you're missing out on is part of your concern. Ending the arrangement with your father would solve these issues. If you choose that, you'll have two outcomes: You'll need to make your own monthly payments, and you'll essentially be putting your father on the street.

There already seems to be a strain between you and your father, but kicking him out of his home without an open conversation and an action plan for next steps would be something your relationship may never recover from. I say "his home" because while it's your property, the condos been his home for the past four years. Yes, he sold his old place against your advice, and you could point to that as justification for taking his current home from him, but that was several years ago and has little bearing on the current circumstances.

This isn't to say that selling your condo and discontinuing your arrangement with your father isn't an option. It is one you must handle carefully if you hope to maintain your relationship. You'll need to give your father plenty notice, and help him find a new place to stay. Have patience, be supportive, and take an interest in maintaining your relationship, even without an condo keeping you close.

But, perhaps it's less about your dissatisfaction about the arrangement and more about how your father will feel about the change. If the alternative you have in mind is to buy a new place and continue allowing him to live there in exchange for the mortgage payment, the best option is complete transparency.

If your father's empathetic limits will make him less receptive to an emotional plea, lead with the financial advantages of your plan. Even though you'll be the primary beneficiary, as your father, he most likely values your interests for your future. Beyond that, talk the whole thing over.

Remember that your father's propensity toward cageyness is unlikely to change. But neither will the resentment you feel every time you get a Zillow notification reminding you how much of a goldmine you're allowing him to sit on. If you don't like how things feel right now, imagine the state of your emotions in a year.

Talk to him about your financial goals and your misgivings. Explain your feelings about continuing the arrangement and give him clear objectives for assuaging your concerns. Ask him how he feels about things, which option seems the best to him, and whether he'd like to collaborate with you on making his preference more doable.

Despite all the uneasiness you describe, the logistics of your arrangement seem mutually respected; he pays the mortgage on time, and you provide him with an affordable place to stay. Build on that respect!

You'll work things out financially. Either you'll help your father find a new place that doesn't involve your assets, or you'll continue your arrangement with a less expensive apartment and use the difference to lower your mortgage. But your relationship with your father won't be as simple to solve.

The fact that you two have shared responsibility for a mortgage and spent the past four years working together shows the strength of your bond. So, start talking, and kick that closed door between you wide open. You might find yourself in a better position, not only financially, but as a family as well.

While homeownership in San Diego still difficult, making the right decision about buying or selling can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're buying a home, downsizing or upsizing your current home, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right agent team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

The DHC Group can help you explore what’s possible and present pain free options that might work for you.

The jobs market is struggling this year as companies cut costs to offset the Trump admnistration's steep tariffs and government employment resets to reflect austerity stemming from DOGE-cuts earlier this year. 

The weakness is evident across many measures, including layoffs and hiring.

• The unemployment rate has increased to 4.3% from its 3.4% low in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Layoffs year-to-date through August total 892,362, up 66% year over year, according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas.
• Only 7.2 million open, unfilled jobs were available nationwide in July, down from over 12 million in 2022.

The data suggest that the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates, given that low unemployment is one of its mandates, but not everyone believed cuts would happen this year — until now.

Bank of America has been steadfast in forecasting that the Federal Reserve will remain on the sidelines through 2025 because of inflation risks. However, following the BLS's latest unemployment report for August, its analysts have changed their tune. 

Bank of America predicts rate cut in September

Since summer 2024, the U.S. unemployment rate has been range-bound between 4% and 4.2%. However, that range was broken on Sept. 5, when the August jobs data landed, showing unemployment rose to 4.3%.

U.S. Unemployment jumped to 4.3% in October 2025, increasing the chances for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut on September 17, 2025, according to Bank of America. © TheStreet/Shutterstock

That's the highest reading since October 2021, when it clocked in at 4.5%. The trend higher this year isn't likely lost on the Federal Reserve.

The Fed is governed by a dual mandate:

• Low unemployment.
• Low inflation.

It's not as simple as it sounds. The Fed indirectly controls the interest rates banks charge on loans by adjusting the Federal Funds Rate, the rate at which banks lend each other reserves overnight.

Hiring data reveal disturbing job market trend

The problem, however, is that lower rates reduce unemployment and increase inflation, and vice versa.

The mandate's contradictory nature means the Fed often finds itself behind the curve when setting monetary policy, waiting to ensure that it doesn't cause one problem while trying to fix another.

For this reason, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has kept rates unchanged this year, worried that reducing them could fan inflationary flames even as the full impact of tariffs lands. 

There's certainly evidence that he's not wrong about inflation, given the Consumer Price Index has risen to 2.7% from 2.3% since April, when most tariffs were announced.

CPI inflation since April:

• July: 2.7%
• June: 2.7%
• May: 2.4%
• April: 2.3%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

That argument has been a big reason Bank of America has maintained its outlook for no rate cuts in 2025 until now.

Fresh labor market data fuel Fed interest rate cut chatter

After the unemployment rate reached a new cycle high in August, B of A's analysts now say that the Fed's hands will be forced, resulting in a 0.25 percentage point cut to the Federal Funds Rate on Sept. 17, when the central bank's policy-making Federal Open Market Committee next meets:

"The [August] jobs report should cement a shift in

the Fed's thinking from worrying about inflation to focusing on

labor weakness. ... We now expect the Fed to cut by 25 basis points each

in September and December," wrote the analysts in a

research note shared with TheStreet.

"It's not surprising that B of A is evolving its thinking on rate cuts following the softening in August job creation noted from multiple sources, not just the August employment report," TheStreet Pro's veteran fund manager Chris Versace said. 

"The question now, in the face of elevated inflation data, is: How many rate cuts might the Fed deliver this year? Next week's August CPI and PPI may help us sort that out."

According to CME Group's popular tool, the probability of a quarter-percentage-point rate cut in September is 88%, and chances for a half-point cut have climbed to 12% from 0% on Sept. 4, before the unemployment report release.

More rate cuts could be coming through 2026

Bank of America doesn't think the Fed will take a one-and-done approach to lowering interest rates.

More Economic Analysis:

• Fed official sends bold 5-word message on September rate cuts
• New inflation report may have major impact on your wallet
• Surprising GDP report resets backdrop for stocks

The investment firm says a rate cut is "on the table" for October, but that's not the base case. Instead, it models two cuts in 2025, followed by even lower interest rates in 2026.

The analysts expect Powell and company to lower interest rates by half a percentage point in 2025, followed by another 0.75 percentage point next year, bringing the rate to a range of 3% to 3.25%.

That would mean a total 2.25 percentage points of rate cuts from the peak Federal Funds Rate last year, including 1 point of cuts at the end of 2024.

While homeownership in San Diego still difficult, making the right decision about buying or selling can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're buying a home, downsizing or upsizing your current home, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right agent team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

The DHC Group can help you explore what’s possible and present pain free options that might work for you.

San Diego home sellers are currently navigating some challenges in the real estate market. According to San Diego Association of Realtors (SDAR), the average time to sell a house in San Diego is around 89 days. This means that homes located in less desirable areas or homes that need updates may need to adjust their prices or be more patient while waiting for buyers.

The current market situation is quite different from the past few years. There are more homes available now than people looking to buy, which shifts the market into a buyer’s favor, allowing those interested in purchasing in San Diego some extra flexibility with pricing.

On another note, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell hinted that interest rates might be cut soon. When that happens, a change like that could open up the market for sellers…potentially attracting more buyers and easing the current stagnation.

Many buyers have been eagerly waiting for a dip in interest rates to jump into the market, so a reduction of even half a percent to a full percent could really change the game!

Additionally, it seems that nice homes in prime locations are still selling quickly. There are strategies sellers can use to make their properties more appealing. Updating your home and staying on top of maintenance can attract more interested buyers. If costs are a concern, being flexible with your asking price can also help ensure your home sells quickly.

While homeownership in San Diego still difficult, making the right decision about buying or selling can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're buying a home, downsizing or upsizing your current home, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right agent team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

The DHC Group can help you explore what’s possible and present pain free options that might work for you.

Even though safety is the most important thing for homebuyers, 22% say they'd be okay with less safety if it means they can afford a home. Other important things people look for are low crime and a lower chance of natural disasters. According to a recent survey, about 22% of homebuyers are willing to compromise on safety to afford a home. 

Still, safety is the top must-have for most people, with 78% saying it's a must. Next are low crime rates and low risk of natural disasters, with 74% and 68% respectively considering them must-haves. Access to grocery stores is also important, with two-thirds of buyers not willing to give that up.

This survey was done in May 2025 by Ipsos and included more than 4,000 U.S. homeowners and renters. The report focuses on 1,224 people planning to buy a home within the next year. The results have a margin of error of about 3.4 percentage points. The survey asked people to list features they consider must-haves versus ones they would be willing to give up to afford a home. They were asked about 18 different features and could pick either "must have" or "willing to compromise.

The survey asked about must-haves versus things people might compromise on because, it's hard to afford a home right now. The median home price in the U.S. has gone up more than 40% since before the pandemic, and mortgage rates are almost double what they were a few years ago. Buyers now need to make about $112,000 to afford the average home, which is about $25,000 more than the typical household earns. Even though some cities are getting a bit cheaper, buying a home is still difficult for many.

Prices are starting to go down, but buyers, specifically first-timers, are still struggling with affordability. Buyers want homes that fit their needs...a room for every kid, space to work from home, or an easy commute. Some features like a finished backyard with a pool or a newly renovated kitchen aren't as important as they used to be. People might like these features, but they aren't willing to or can't pay more for them.

It's also important to note that in many parts of the country, the housing market has shifted to be more buyer-friendly. Buyers may be able to negotiate the price or get help from sellers, such as a lower mortgage rate or help with closing costs, which can take some of the pain away. Sellers know it's taking longer to sell and that they can't expect multiple offers like before. Today, the definition of a win is just selling. For buyers who find a home they really like, it's worth trying to negotiate with the seller.

For those with kids, having good schools is important, but not as important as space. As the school year starts, we also looked at people with kids and whether they're willing to give up good schools for a cheaper home. About 41% of people with kids say they're willing to give up good schools to afford a home, while 59% consider them a must-have.

Overall, good schools are in the middle when it comes to must-haves for families. People with kids are more likely to see things like the number of bedrooms, indoor space, and outdoor space as must-haves than good schools. They're also less likely to say things like commute time, being close to restaurants, or certain neighborhood features are must-haves.

While homeownership in San Diego still difficult, making the right decision about buying or selling can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're buying a home, downsizing or upsizing your current home, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

Hennin Foreman and The DHC Group can help you explore what’s possible and present pain free options that might work for you.

Let us know how we can help...comment “house options” and we'll be in touch

If you’ve been watching the market, you’ve likely noticed a few changes already this year. But what’s next? From home prices to mortgage rates, here’s what the latest expert forecasts suggest for the rest of 2025 – and what these shifts could mean for you.

Will Home Prices Fall?

Many buyers are hoping home prices will come down soon. And recent headlines about prices dipping in some areas are making some people believe it’s just a matter of time before there’s a bigger drop. But here are the facts.

While home price growth is slowing down, that doesn’t mean we’re headed for a crash. As NAHB explains:

“House price growth slowed . . . partly due to a decline in demand and an increase in supply. Persistent high mortgage rates and increased inventory combined to ease upward pressure on house prices. These factors signaled a cooling market, following rapid gains seen in previous years.”

But experts say, even with that slowdown, prices will still rise this year at the national level. The average of 8 leading forecasters shows prices are expected to go up 1.5-2% in 2025 (see graph below):

That means, if you’re waiting for a major drop, experts agree that’s just not in the cards.

Keep in mind, while some markets are already seeing prices come down slightly, the average dip is just -3.5%. That’s a far cry from the nearly 20% decline the market experienced during the 2008 crash.

Plus, those small changes are easily absorbed when you consider how much home prices have climbed over the past few years. Data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) shows prices are up 55% nationally compared to just 5 years ago.

The takeaway? Prices aren’t crashing. They’re expected to keep climbing – just not as quickly these days. And some may argue they’ll be closer to flat by the end of this year. But, again, this is going to vary by market, with some local ups and downs. So, lean on a pro to see the latest price trends for your area.

Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?

Another common thought among today’s buyers is: I’m just going to wait for rates to come down. But is that a smart strategy? According to Yahoo Finance:

“If you’re looking for a substantial interest rate drop in 2025, you’ll likely be left waiting. The latest news from the Federal Reserve and other key economic data point toward steady mortgage rates on par with what we see today.”

In other words, don’t try to time the market or wait for a drop that may not be coming. Most experts say rates will remain in the 6s, and current projections have them settling in the mid-6% range by the end of this year (see chart below):

And that’s not a big change from where they are right now. So, if you need to move, let’s talk about how to make it happen and what you should watch for. Because while rates may not be as low as you want them to be, you don’t want to put your needs on the back burner, hoping for something the data shows isn’t likely to happen.

Working with an expert who is keeping an eye on all the economic factors that can influence mortgage rates is going to be essential this year. That’s because changes in things like inflation and other key drivers could impact how rates move going forward. 

The Takeaway for Buyers and Sellers

Whether you’re buying, selling, or thinking about doing both, this market requires strategy, not guesswork. Prices are still rising nationally (just more slowly), and rates are projected to stay pretty much where they are, so the bigger picture is one of moderation – not a meltdown.

Bottom Line

If you want to make a move, your best bet is to focus on your personal situation – not what the headlines say – and work with Hennin Foreman & The DHC Group who know how to navigate the shifting conditions in your local market.

This group of 29 restaurants reflects the best of San Diego’s diverse dining culture — covering cities across the county while spanning a range of price points, cuisines, approaches, and neighborhoods. Every few months, The DHC Group adds a few restaurants that have become favorites or have stepped up their game. A few restaurants have been retired from the map — not necessarily forever — just to make room.

Valle

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

Valle, the first Oceanside restaurant to receive a Michelin star, comes from chef Roberto Alcocer (who also cooks at Malva in Valle de Guadalupe). The landmark restaurant has helped transform the small surfing town into a recognized dining destination. Alcocer transports his modern Mexican cuisine stateside, showcasing his approach to Baja and Californian ingredients in meat-based or vegetarian tasting menus with optional wine pairings that spotlight Baja California’s Valle de Guadalupe’s wine region. Grab a seat at the chef’s table for an inside look at the bustling, well-oiled kitchen. Seasonal menu highlights include plates like local spiny lobster and wagyu carne asada.

Know before you go: Grab a reservation before the sun sets to take in the view over the Oceanside pier from the outdoor patio or a table near the window.

222 N Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054

(866) 723-8906

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Matsu

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

A core institution in the Oceanside fine dining scene, chef William Eick commands a Japanese omakase tasting menu with 10 courses, showcasing seafood, seasonal vegetables, premium meats, and dessert. For a splurge, upgrade to the A5 Wagyu add-on for $55, or opt for the a la carte menu for something more customized. The range of dishes can include tuna, wagyu, and miso in deceptively simple preparations that highlight the main ingredients and strive for a zero-waste ethos. One highlight is the sunflower, ika, rayu — an intricate plate using the entire sunflower plant and cuttlefish, presented like a cuttlefish burrito and dusted with dehydrated sunflower leaf. Also, try the oak-grilled sablefish, prepared with a technique that puffs the fish’s scales out like a pinecone. Look for special events like chef and Japanese sake collaborations.

Know before you go: A warm place for a celebration with a special date or close friends when you want to hear each other’s conversations.

626 S Tremont St, Oceanside, CA 92054

(760) 681-6152

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Tanner’s Prime Burger

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price Range: $

Beef tallow is the name of the game at Tanner’s Prime Burgers, a casual burger joint that’s been recognized by the Michelin Guide. Chef Brandon Rodgers (The French Laundry, Benu, In Situ) partnered with Eric Brandt of Brandt Beef to launch this Oceanside restaurant after hosting pop-ups at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. The simple interior features retro flair, with white tables and red stools, as well as indoor and outdoor counter seating and a spacious dining patio. Tanner’s serves its smash burger on a pillowy brioche bun with a USDA Prime Brandt beef patty, beef bacon, New School American cheese, lettuce, caramelized onions, and a drizzle of Tanner’s sauce. Don’t be shy about dabbing on some Tanner’s Prime Hot Sauce for an extra kick. An order of tallow-fried fries is essential on every visit here. Save room for a creamy milkshake, or the restaurant’s signature Fatty Patty, an ice cream sandwich with vanilla beef tallow ice cream between chocolate chip cookies.

Must-try dishes: Prime burger, tallow fries, and Fatty Patty

510 Vista Way, Oceanside, California 92054

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Jeune et Jolie

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

One of the select handful of restaurants in San Diego to earn a Michelin star, this restaurant is a bona fide destination in Carlsbad. Helmed by executive chef Eric Bost, (whose newly opened restaurant Lilo just won a Michelin star), the modern and elegant French table showcases seafood and seasonal vegetable dishes through a Southern California lens. Choose from a four-course tasting menu served in the dining room or on the lovely patio or order a la carte plates at the bar, where you can also indulge in excellent cocktails, zero-proof options, or absinthe from a custom fountain. Make sure to indulge in the raw bar with a selection of oysters or croque-madame with kaluga queen caviar.

Know before you go: Ideal for a date night celebration, the modern French restaurant bursts with romantic vibes.

2659 State St Suite 102, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA

(760) 637-5266

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Manna

Open for: Breakfast, Lunch

Price range: $$

Manna, a Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized brunch restaurant, started as a stopgap for chef Andrew Bachelier (previously of Jeune et Jolie and Cucina Enoteca) as he worked toward launching his larger restaurant partnership with pro skater Tony Hawk. It’s safe to say that this North County daytime cafe, Eater’s 2023 winner for Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year, has already become a beloved fixture in Leucadia. Diners have fully embraced Manna’s feel-good menu, which includes comforting savory pork belly congee, seasonal salads, and Turkish eggs with chili garlic butter. In the next couple of months, look for chef Bachelier’s forthcoming restaurant, Chick N Hawk, with the Birdman up the street in Encinitas.

Must-try dishes: Locals come for the unparalleled Turkish eggs and Manna bowl. Don’t skip on a vitality tonic, including ones made with Steady State coffee.

1076 N. Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024

760-230-1237

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Market Restaurant & Bar

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

Chef Carl Schroeder, whose extensive culinary experience includes working with famed chefs Michael Mina and Bradley Ogden, remains faithful to a hyper-seasonal cooking style inspired by local farms, including the nearby Alice Waters-endorsed Chino Farm. With its sophisticated ambience, the suburban restaurant draws a loyal crowd. The restaurant offers a three-course tasting menu in the dining room, while a la carte service is available in the bar and lounge. A full sushi menu is a big star for offerings in the lounge. Don’t skip the wine and cocktails from its robust menu.

Must-try dishes: Applewood smoked salmon, hamachi sushi, cherrywood roasted rack of lamb.

3702 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014, USA

(858) 523-0007

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Addison Restaurant

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

Guided by longtime executive chef/director William Bradley, Addison is San Diego’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant. The culinary team leads diners through an elaborate $385 ten-course chef’s tasting menu, spotlighting local California ingredients and produce. While the menu rotates with the seasons (expect the spring menu to change three times), highlight dishes include the pillowy shellfish chawanmushi with broccoli and bok choy, Regiis Ova reserve caviar with koshihikari rice, smoked sabayon and sesame, and sourdough bread made with goat’s milk. A curated wine pairing is available at an additional cost. Make sure to try a libation from the spring cocktail menu like the Snap Pea, made with blanco tequila, lime, snap pea, muskmelon, and aloe.

Know before you go: Plan for the tasting menu by booking reservations well in advance. Arrive early for a drink at the lounge in the dining area for the full experience.

5200 Grand Del Mar Way, San Diego, CA 92130, USA

(858) 314-1900

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George's At The Cove

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $$$

A landmark La Jolla restaurant, George’s at the Cove has been going strong for over 40 years now. The culinary team is led by chef Trey Foshee, executive chef Masa Kojima, and pastry chef Anna Adams.

The restaurant’s three levels, each with different vibes, all have sweeping views of the Pacific shoreline. The rooftop Ocean Terrace features a full bar and a new snacks menu with fresh anchovies, sardines, mussels, and grilled cheese. Right below is the newly renovated Level 2 dining area and bar with a high-top counter facing the ocean. Hit up the spring and summer happy hour for half-price beer and wine, along with bar bites. The lowest level works well for large gatherings.

Must-try dishes: For lunch, don’t skip the lobster roll and rockfish tacos. For dinner, try the seared rare yellowtail or prime flat iron steak.

1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

(858) 454-4244

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Nine-Ten Restaurant and Bar

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $$$

From this elegant and contemporary restaurant, chef Jason Knibb and team execute dishes from an eclectic menu that spans the globe, using hyper-local ingredients. It’s no surprise the folks at Michelin have recognized this La Jolla restaurant as a guide inclusion. While Nine-Ten offers lunch and weekend brunch as well as a great bar menu, dinner is its main event with highlights that include Knibb’s signature Jamaican jerk pork belly, as well as his takes on the Italian classic cacio e pepe and hamachi sashimi served with marinated baby shitake mushrooms to kick off the meal. For a truly remarkable meal, splurge on the “Mercy of the Chef” dinner, a six-course culinary adventure that offers dishes not on the regular menu.

Know before you go: When you want to truly impress guests with chef Knibb’s plates, ambiance, and a pleasant after-meal saunter around La Jolla Cove, Nine-Ten is where you want to book.

910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

(858) 964-5400

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Shan Xi Magic Kitchen

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price Range: $

Peer through the oversized glass window and into the kitchen at Shan Xi Magic Kitchen, a Chinese restaurant on Convoy Street, to watch cooks deftly stretch dough into lengthy hand-pulled noodles, before dropping them into an awaiting pot of boiling water. The specialty of this family-owned restaurant is the cumin-lamb biang biang noodles, which are tossed with cumin-spiced lamb and pepper flakes. Also, try the beef brisket hand-ripped noodles, served over the same wide, chewy noodles that retain a pleasant, bouncy texture. For non-noodle options, try the stewed pork burger or the spicy cumin lamb burger. Add in an order of lamb skewers and dry-fried green beans to round out the meal.

Know before you go: If the long noodles feel unwieldy, ask for scissors to trim them to size.

4344 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111

(858) 565-2688

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Paradisaea

Open for: Dinner

Price Range: $$$

Nestled in Bird Rock, Paradisaea is a breezy, floral, birds-of-paradise-themed restaurant in the iconic Piano Building. After starting as chef de cuisine in 2024, Denmark-born chef Anders Jensen now leads the kitchen, serving a menu influenced by French technique and Baja and Nordic influences. Start with the colorful Jalapeno Caesar salad with lemon anchovy and the Thomson Heritage beef tartare served with rye toast points before moving on to fish dishes or steak frites with duck fat fries. Make sure to try the Copenhagen sourdough bread, a nod to Jensen’s heritage. The bar menu features playful items, such as newspaper-wrapped fish and chips and goat cheese croquettes. Don’t skip the cocktail menu, which offers a robust non-alcoholic selection.

Know before you go: Try to snag one of the two chef’s tables to watch the open kitchen in action. Diners at the tables have the opportunity to sample dishes from both the bar menu and the main menu.

5680 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037

(858) 255-8011

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Yakitori Tsuta

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

One of the most exciting openings in 2024 is San Diego’s first yakitori omakase restaurant, headed by the venerable chef Tatsuro Tsuchiya, who has spent time at Sushi Tadokoro, Yakitori Yakyudori, and Yakitori Hino. The elegant space seats eight people at the counter and four guests at a single table. Needless to say, reservations are hard to come by, so book early. Seats are released 30 days ahead. Over two hours, the chef will parse out 18 to 20 dishes during the omakase meal. Available at both the 5:30 p.m. or 8:15 p.m. seating, the omakase, priced at $115, is worth the adventure. Chino Farms’ seasonal produce is used for the starters and is found in the chawanmushi. Forget beef, pork, or fish — only chicken and vegetable skewers are served, followed by refreshing, tiny desserts.

Must-try dishes: If you do the omakase, you’ll get to try all the dishes. If a la carte is more your speed (only available at the 8:15 p.m. seating), be sure to order the chawanmushi, chicken broth, chicken liver, and chicken skin.

3860 Convoy Street, San Diego, California 92111

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The Fishery

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $$

For a city of its size, San Diego has too few restaurants dedicated to showcasing local seafood and the bounty of the West Coast. This family-run Pacific Beach institution is currently helmed by chef Mike Reidy (Callie, Ironside, Melisse), who joined last year. The casual restaurant is also a seafood distributor and retail market, ensuring that the freshest catch lands on the menu. All the fish and shrimp are wild caught, and the names of the local purveyors (fisherfolks and farmers) are acknowledged on the menu. The local seafood, oysters, and ocean-themed cocktails, like the Selkie Song, are made with Bimini overproof gin, Taiwanese sunset oolong, and seaweed.

Must-try dishes: Indulge in the shareable seafood tower, which has a little of everything, and pair it with a Tiny Martini made with Layback vodka and oyster shell vermouth.

5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA

(858) 272-9985

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Sushi Ichifuji

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

There is no shortage of sushi bars in San Diego, from the everyday to the sublime, but Sushi Ichifuji has risen to the top of the pack while remaining an accessible and attainable reservation. The 10-seat sushi counter, manned by two skilled itamae with decades of experience between them at revered local Japanese restaurants like Soichi Sushi, Sushi Tadokoro, and Taka Sushi, is a showcase for a nigiri-focused omakase menu and a more elaborate eight-course menu that changes with the seasons but always includes impeccable fish, creative appetizers, and homemade desserts like hojicha panna cotta, and yuzu cream sorbet.

Know before you go: The omakase menu changes seasonally, so going every few months isn’t a crazy idea. Don’t skip on the sake, which comes from small-batch distilleries in Japan.

7530 Mesa College Drive, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92111

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Soichi Sushi

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

Nestled on a quiet street in Normal Heights, this gracious, family-run Adams Avenue sushi bar boasts a Michelin star. The menu includes a range of omakase options, ranging from the petite omakase for $60 to the premier eight-course omakase experience for $169. Master sushi chef Sochi Kadoya showcases delicately prepared appetizers, nigiri, and sashimi offered alongside a well-curated sake selection. Also on the menu are a la carte items like special futomaki rolls, tempura, and ankimo, monk fish liver with a dash of the chef’s house-made ponzu sauce.

Know before you go: Reservations are tough to get, so if your Soichi Sushi craving must be satiated right away, just know that take-out orders are limited to two to three per day.

2121 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116, USA

(619) 677-2220

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Et Voilà!

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$

This neighborhood bistro, run by a veteran of the city’s best French restaurants, has ample charm and Parisian bistro vibes. The dim, moodily lit atmosphere also makes it ideal for date night. Its relaxed bar and comfortable dining room are a fine setting for French classics that include escargots, coq au vin, and mussels. Be sure to order the sky-high, made-to-order souffles that people make special trips to try. The happy hour is another reason to come through, with a full array of cocktails, wine, beer, and a robust food menu, including escargot, seared shrimp, and pork baby back ribs in a bean casserole.

Know before you go: If you’re planning a date, make it on a Tuesday night when a bottle of wine and three courses are priced at $55 per person.

3015 Adams Ave #103, San Diego, CA 92116, USA

(619) 209-7759

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Wolf In The Woods

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

Nestled amid the Craftsman-style homes of Mission Hills is this snug wine bar and cafe that’s become a neighborhood favorite and popular date-night spot. The European bistro feel is punctuated with New Mexican artwork. The cuisine blends European, New Mexican, Hispanic, and Native American influences into its inspired cuisine, which informs the tapas-style menu from executive chef Carmine Lopez that includes sweet corn and piñon soup, ground lamb braised with New Mexican spices, and Hatch chile chocolate pot de creme.

Must-try dishes: Sweet corn and piñon soup, ground lamb braised with New Mexican spices, Hatch chile chocolate pot de creme.

1920 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103

(619) 234-2597

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Fort Oak

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

This sophomore entry from chef Brad Wise behind Trust Restaurant Group is a well-loved staple in Mission Hills. Housed in a former 1940s Ford dealership, there’s an oval-shaped cocktail bar that fits nicely in the showroom that once sold cars. With an upscale dining room, outdoor dining space, and chef’s counter perch, the restaurant offers a range of hearth-driven meals. Start dinner here with a selection of dishes from the raw bar like scallop aguachile and ahi tartare before digging into mains like pork chop with black garlic sauce and New York strip steak.

Must-try dishes: New York strip steak, oysters, scallop aquachile.

1011 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103, USA

(619) 722-3398

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Sushi Tadokoro

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $$$

Well-crafted nigiri sushi is one of the attractions at this Michelin-recognized restaurant, which tops many sushi aficionados’ lists for its adherence to traditional Japanese style and technique. Classic edomae sushi is the ethos here, meaning the raw fish is served simply with rice seasoned with vinegar. Tucked away in Old Town, the setting is sparse and intimate; all of the fireworks are reserved for what’s on the plate. Menu options include omakase at the sushi bar or the table, as well as a la carte sushi. Be sure to try the sea urchin sushi, a specialty here. Chef Tadokoro selects the seasonal sea urchin from Hokkaido and California for the best flavors.

Know before you go: Parking is tight in the modest strip mall where Sushi Tadokoro sits, but nearby street parking is usually available.

2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110, USA

(619) 297-0298

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Tribute Pizza

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$

Though it was initially built to honor some of the world’s great pizzerias, this North Park restaurant has earned respect for its own menu creations, from homemade bread and farmer’s market-sourced vegetable plates to its “Neo-Neapolitan” pies that range from creatively-topped weekly specials to classic pies. Choose your own adventure with pizza styles, including neo-neapolitan, Grandma style with a rectangular pan, or New York-style pan. Popular favorites include the Margherita and Dirty Dancin’, made with house-made Italian fennel sausage, jalapenos, and pineapple (not from a can, as it states on the menu).

Know before you go: Pizzas are made by hand and can take up to 45 minutes, so be sure to order an appetizer if you’re peckish.

3077 North Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104, USA

(619) 450-4505

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Cesarina

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $$$

Having just celebrated its six-year anniversary, this vibey neighborhood trattoria in Point Loma charms with Roman romance and hospitality. From the lush vines and flowers trailing down the trellis in the cozy outdoor patio to the indoor dining area with rose-colored booths, bistro tables, and casual bar counter, it is ideal for a refreshing apertif or solo dining. The restaurant features an inventive menu showcasing pastas like pappardelle and ravioli, along with robust vegan and gluten-free options. A must-try is the popular cremini sauce, made with shitake and porcini mushroom sauce, on a pasta shape of your choosing. Don’t skip the tableside tiramisu, made with house-made ladyfingers, no matter how full you think you are.

Know before you go: If you can’t get a table, head down the street about a mile away to their sister restaurant, Elvira. The casual hideaway also has house-made pastas along with wood-fired pizzas.

4161 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107

(619) 226-6222

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Cori Pastificio Trattoria

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$

Since opening in 2019,Cori Pastificio Trattoria, a cozy Italian restaurant, has showcased Sicilian dishes from chef Accursio Lota. While the interior shines with sunny colors, the outdoor patio space is warmed with heaters and string lights. The house-made pastas are made on the premises each day with heirloom Sicilian grains and local seasonal ingredients. Try the yellowtail crudo, Thompson Heritage Farm porchetta, ancient grain tonnarelli pasta, and the award-winning seafood carbonara pasta. Well-received by locals as well as the international culinary community, this North Park treasure has a vegan menu and Sicilian desserts such as the ruota menfitana, a ruota shell filled with sheep ricotta, candied oranges, and prickly pear juice.

Must-try dishes: Be sure to try the seafood carbonara pasta, made with ancient grains. It’s a dish that made Chef Lota the winner of a global pasta competition.

2977 Upas St, San Diego, CA 92104, USA

(619) 573-6159

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ARTIFACT at Mingei

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Price Range: $$

Artifact anchors the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, showcasing ancient cooking methods, flavorful spices, and bright botanicals as a nod to the dozen or so museums that surround the restaurant. The menu offers an edible history lesson, tracing the evolution of dishes across the globe. Be sure to try a few dishes from the dumpling category, which spans gyoza, pierogies, and somasas with turmeric. Short rib resting on a bed of egg noodles and crispy tofu with gai lan in fermented black bean sauce are also highlights at Artifact. Keep an eye out for monthly regional dinners, which focus on specific cuisines from around the world, ranging from France to West Africa.

Know before you go: Artifact offers a weekend happy hour from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.

1439 El Prado, San Diego, California 92101

619-704-7523

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Morning Glory

Open for: Breakfast, Lunch

Price range: $$

Awarded Bib Gourmand status by the Michelin Guide, this perennially popular brunch spot stands out for serving a breakfast menu with global influences (think egg-fried rice and breakfast carbonara) and compelling cocktails in a pink-hued, fantastical setting. It’s also plenty irreverent, with menu section titles like “Eggs a la Benedick” and a weekend-only breakfast dim sum cart service that runs from open to noon. Mimosas to kick up the morning and a selection of hot chocolates in unexpected flavors complete the picture. Don’t miss out on the soufflé pancakes, ginger fried rice with pork belly, khachapuri with mozzarella, feta, garlic, olive oil, and egg.

Know before you go: The only way to get a weekend reservation is to pre-order “The Family Affair” group meal for a table of two or three. Options include steak and eggs, lobster omelet with sturgeon caviar, or fried chicken extravaganza.

550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

(619) 629-0302

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Animae

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$$

Named as San Diego’s first James Beard Award finalist, executive chef Tara Monsod helms San Diego’s Filipino- and Asian-inflected steakhouse. Cooking the restaurant’s most compelling menu to date, Monsod’s cuisine brings a new perspective to Asian classics with dishes like tuna kinilaw, short rib kare kare, Taiwanese fried chicken, and crab fried rice. The modern, opulent dining space with sky-high ceilings, huge windows with velvet drapes, and cushy, curvaceous booths adds to the ambiance of a night out with elevated comfort dishes. Stop at the gorgeous bar for bites and cocktails. Don’t skip desserts like ube profiteroles and buko pandan.

Must-try dishes: Don’t miss out on the pork tomahawk tocino, brightened with a red beet glaze and accompanied by a citrusy mango sawsawan, a Filipino favorite that chef Tara has incorporated into the dinner menu.

969 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

(619) 432-1225

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Callie

Open for: Dinner

Price range: $$$

Still one of the city’s most coveted reservations, Callie has become an essential contributor to San Diego’s restaurant culture. Chef Travis Swikard’s compelling California-Mediterranean cuisine lets local ingredients shine, making the East Village food scene a whole lot brighter. Be sure to start with the house pita and dips like hummus and avocado labneh. The menu is punctuated by stellar pasta and dishes like Aleppo chicken and harissa-grilled lamb chops. To try a bit of everything, order the five-course feast for $80, accompanied by an optional $45 wine pairing or a $35 non-alcoholic pairing.

Know before you go: For those who fear parallel parking in East Village, an underground parking garage sits in the same building as the restaurant. The restaurant even validates tickets.

1195 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA

(619) 255-9696

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Fish Guts

Open for: Lunch

Price range: $

Chef Pablo Becker starts most mornings with an early trip to Tunaville Market to pick out fresh fish from legendary fishmonger Tommy Gomes. Moving quickly to keep the fish fresh, Becker heads back to his taqueria, Fish Guts, to prepare the city’s best fish tacos. The local white fish used for the Estilo Baja tacos, usually rockfish or sheepshead, is portioned out before being battered with a mix of flour, Modelo, bread crumbs, and French mustard inspired by a trip to Ensenada, Mexico. Just before the fish is ready, Blecker prepares the coleslaw and assembles the taco on a fresh corn tortilla made with masa from a local vendor. The outer coating is not too thick, and the fish is tender, practically melting in slivers with each mouthful. Add orders of smoked monchong fish dip, Baja-style battered shrimp tacos, and freshly fried fish and chips to round out the meal. Signature drink options at Fish Guts include a smoky mango margarita made with agave wine and fresh juice or a classic michelada.

Must-try dish: You can’t drop into a place with “fish” in its name without indulging in a fish taco.

2222 Logan Ave (Ste 1), San Diego, CA 92113

(619) 888-0081

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Serea Coastal Cuisine

Open for: Breakfast, Dinner, Weekend Brunch

Price range: $$$$

The iconic Hotel del Coronado’s anchor restaurant is also a showcase for the region’s best seafood. With views facing the Pacific Ocean from almost all the tables, the interior is decorated like a beach house with a tiered outdoor patio so everyone gets a view. Executive chef JoJo Ruiz (Lionfish, Joya Kitchen, Temaki Bar & Grill) has a long history of supporting local fishermen, whose fresh catch is cooked whole and served tableside just steps from the beach. On the menu are seasonal dishes, such as the “Greek Freak,” crusted tuna with crispy dolmas, grilled swordfish “piccata” made with horta, lemon, capers, and avgolemono sauce, and Greek grilled chicken with lemon mustard sauce.

Know before you go: Book a table at sunset for spectacular views while sipping on refreshing cocktails like the spicy hibiscus margarita.

1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA

(619) 435-6611

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Aqui Es Texcoco

Open for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Price range: $

Birria might be the Mexican slow-cooked meat dish of the moment, but barbacoa — particularly barbacoa de borrego (lamb) — might reign supreme. Traditionally roasted for over seven hours in an underground fire pit and covered with maguey plant leaves, the kitchen uses a specialized oven to replicate the flavors. This roomy Chula Vista restaurant has been focused on lamb barbacoa for nearly 35 years, turning out tender, succulent barbecue that’s best had as a build-your-own taco experience, served with fresh tortillas, salsa, garnishes, and a side of rich lamb consomme, but it’s also excellent as a filling for crunchy flautas or cheesy quesatacos. Although lamb is king here, don’t miss the zucchini flower or huitlacoche quesadillas.

Must-try dish: Start with the lamb barbecue plate to establish a baseline if you’ve never tried barbacoa before.

510 Broadway, Chula Vista, CA 91910

(619) 476-9400

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AM I missing any of you favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

SAN DIEGO, CA (June 20, 2025) — The Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS® (SDAR) reports that the overall median sales price for residential properties in San Diego County reached $900,000 in May 2025, marking a 2.9% increase over the previous month.

In its latest residential real estate market update, SDAR states that the median price for an existing, single‑family detached home stood at $1,100,000 in May—a 0.9% increase compared to April 2025. Monthly median prices for detached homes have steadily risen from $1,010,000 in December 2024 to $1,100,000 in May 2025, highlighting sustained growth in the market.

For attached homes, including townhomes and condominiums, the median price rose 1.1% to $690,000, up from $675,000 in April and $679,950 in March.

The property type with the largest price gain in May was single-family homes, where the median jumped 4.5% to $1,050,000.

Market Highlights – May 2025:

• Fastest-selling price range: $1.25 M–$2 M (32 days on market)

• Slowest-selling price range: Over $5 M (61 days on market)

• Largest sales volume gain: Homes priced under $250,000 (up 27.8%)

• Closed sales: Decreased 6.9% for detached homes; decreased 14.0% for attached homes month-over-month

• Inventory: Rose 34.6% overall compared to April; detached home inventory up 25.6%

• Biggest inventory increase: Condos and townhomes (up 49.8%)

• Housing supply index: 2.9 months for single‑family homes (up from 2.6 in April), 3.7 months for attached homes (up from 3.4)

• Pending sales (June 2024–May 2025): Up 3.6% year-over-year

• Monthly pending sales: Down 3.7% for detached homes; down 9.0% for attached homes

• Largest pending sales growth by home size: Homes between 3,001–4,000 sq ft (up 8.4%)

“The market is showing a strong upward trend in pricing, especially in the detached home segment,” said Chris Anderson, 2025 President of the Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS®. “While closed and pending sales dipped slightly last month, inventory continues to improve, giving buyers more options in a still‑competitive environment.”

The housing supply index, which reflects how long it would take to sell the current inventory at existing sales rates, rose in May. For single‑family homes, supply increased to 2.9 months, while attached homes reached 3.7 months—both signaling a gradual shift toward a more balanced market.

With the cost of homeownership so high in San Diego, making the right decision about buying or selling a home can feel like a real challenge. Whether you're downsizing, upsizing, investing or cashing out all together...if you’re open to having the right team put in the work for you, we can get it done.

Hennin Foreman and The DHC Group can help you explore what’s possible and present pain free options that might work for you.

Let us know how we can help...comment “market” and we'll be in touch 

For more detailed market statistics and analysis, visit www.HenninForeman.com