La Jolla: My Hometown, Where Coastal Excellence Meets Timeless Appeal
Make "The Jewel" your next luxury location
As your dedicated coastal real estate specialist with Compass - La Jolla holds a special place in my heart. This is where I grew up—surfing Windansea before school, attending Muirlands Middle and La Jolla High School as a proud Viking (Class of 1998), and developing a deep appreciation for the ocean and community that shaped me. Today, from my home across the bay in Point Loma, I remain deeply connected to La Jolla and committed to helping clients discover its unparalleled lifestyle.
La Jolla Real Estate Market Overview – December 2025
La Jolla continues to set the standard for luxury coastal living in San Diego, with strong demand and limited inventory driving consistent value:
- Median sale price (November 2025): $2.4M (+6.3% year-over-year)
- Average price per square foot: $1,160
- Average days on market: 48 (improved from prior periods)
- Active listings: Approximately 231, reflecting tight inventory
- Luxury segment ($5M+): Robust activity, including a notable $47M waterfront sale
In short, La Jolla remains one of San Diego’s most exclusive and resilient markets. Prime properties near the Village or La Jolla Cove often sell quickly, many through private networks.
The Distinctive La Jolla Lifestyle
La Jolla offers a refined yet relaxed way of life that has captivated residents for generations:
- Morning paddle-outs or walks along La Jolla Shores
- Fine dining at acclaimed venues such as George’s at the Cove or The Marine Room
- Eating some of the freshest and best seafood at El Pescador Fish Market and Restaurant - where I worked for 5 years before attending culinary school in San Francisco
- Exploring the La Jolla Sea Caves by kayak or snorkeling among the leopard sharks
- Hiking the scenic Coast Walk Trail or nearby Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
- Supporting La Jolla High School athletics—a tradition I still cherish
Even with my current residence in Point Loma, La Jolla’s beauty and sense of community continue to draw me back regularly.
Exceptional Education in the La Jolla Cluster
The schools in La Jolla are among California’s finest, consistently ranking in the top tier statewide:
- Bird Rock Elementary: Ranked in the top 5% of California elementary schools, with 82% math proficiency (compared to 35% statewide average) and 2025 California Dashboard performance 72.8 points above standard in English Language Arts and 80.1 in math; serves approximately 362 students (K-5) with a 24:1 student-teacher ratio
- La Jolla Elementary: Highest “Blue” rating on the 2025 CA Dashboard
- Muirlands Middle School (my alma mater): 9/10 on GreatSchools
- La Jolla High School: Ranked #108 among California public high schools, with a 98% graduation rate and 62% AP exam pass rate - Vikings for life.
La Jolla Demographics: Sophisticated and Welcoming
With a population of approximately 45,000, La Jolla reflects an affluent, educated, and diverse coastal community. The median age is around 40, with a balanced mix of families, professionals, and retirees. Household size averages 2.0. Racial composition includes 72.5% White, 11.9% Asian, and growing multiracial representation. Median household income stands at $141,822, supported by a highly educated population and low poverty rate. It remains a warm, inclusive environment that continues to nurture lifelong connections.
Begin Your La Jolla Journey
Whether you envision a classic estate along Camino de la Costa, a contemporary residence in the Barber Tract, or a sophisticated condominium near Windansea, I bring intimate knowledge of the area—every neighborhood, tide pattern, and local insight.
I would welcome the opportunity to assist you. Please feel free to reach out:
Justin Halbert
619-432-5181
The Cove is calling—let’s find your place in La Jolla.
