Townhouses in National City Zip Code

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National City occupies a compact stretch of the South Bay in southwestern San Diego County, hugging San Diego Bay about five miles south of downtown San Diego. It is one of the older and more historically layered corners of the region. The land was part of Rancho de la Nacion, the 26,000-acre Mexican-era land grant that brothers Frank and Warren Kimball purchased in 1868. The Kimballs laid out the town, brought the railroad, and incorporated the city on September 17, 1887 — making National City the second-oldest city in San Diego County, behind only San Diego itself. That railroad-and-harbor origin shaped the city's early identity as an industrial and port gateway. Today the economy still leans toward transportation, port, and service industries: the Mile of Cars auto dealership corridor along National City Boulevard has anchored local commerce since the 1950s, and the South Bay's maritime and industrial employers remain a short drive away. The city also sits near major Navy and defense facilities, a connection that has drawn generations of military families. National City is among the most densely populated and culturally diverse cities in San Diego County. Its neighborhoods range from the Victorian and Craftsman-era streets around Heritage Square and Brick Row to mid-century residential blocks and newer subdivisions on the eastern edge. A long-running bayfront effort has expanded public access to San Diego Bay, adding shoreline parks and recreation where the city meets the water. Interstates 5 and 805 and the MTS Trolley Blue Line run north-south through the city, putting downtown San Diego, the port, and the U.S.-Mexico border within a short, direct commute. Who National City suits: it appeals to buyers and renters who value affordability within San Diego County, proximity to downtown and the border, and a community with a strong sense of place and history, rather than new master-planned uniformity.

Population 56,173

County San Diego

Active Listings 100

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Frequently Asked Questions

What county is National City in?

National City is in San Diego County, California, in the South Bay region about five miles south of downtown San Diego. The city sits along San Diego Bay and is bordered by Interstate 5 and Interstate 805.

How old is National City?

National City was incorporated on September 17, 1887, making it the second-oldest city in San Diego County. Only the city of San Diego, incorporated in 1850, is older. The community grew from Rancho de la Nacion, purchased by brothers Frank and Warren Kimball in 1868.

What school districts serve National City?

Elementary students attend the National School District, which serves preschool through sixth grade across ten elementary schools and was founded in 1871. Secondary students are served by the Sweetwater Union High School District, with Sweetwater High School, established in 1920, serving much of the city.

Does National City have public transit?

Yes. The San Diego Trolley's Blue Line runs through National City between the U.S.-Mexico border and points north, and MTS bus routes provide local service. Interstates 5 and 805 also connect the city to downtown San Diego, the airport, and the border.

What is National City known for?

National City is known for its history as San Diego County's second-oldest city, its preserved Victorian homes and the 1887 Brick Row landmark, the Mile of Cars auto dealership corridor, and its diverse, multicultural South Bay character.

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