Cardiff

Welcome to Cardiff By The Sea

A coastal gem with a laid-back vibe
 
Cardiff By The Sea, a charming beach town nestled within the larger Encinitas community, offers a unique blend of laid-back coastal living and vibrant local culture. This neighborhood is celebrated for its stunning ocean views, accessible beaches, and a small-town atmosphere that feels both welcoming and exclusive. Residents enjoy the best of both worlds: the tranquility of a beachside retreat and the convenience of city amenities just a stone's throw away.
 
The community prides itself on maintaining a distinct identity, marked by its walkable streets, eclectic mix of homes, and a strong sense of local pride. From the famous Magic Carpet Ride sculpture to the sun-kissed shores of San Elijo State Beach, Cardiff embodies the quintessential Southern California lifestyle, complete with year-round sunshine, surf, and outdoor living.
 

What to Love

  • Proximity to pristine beaches and surfing spots
  • Walkable neighborhoods with a casual beach vibe
  • Strong community spirit and local identity
  • Eclectic dining and shopping options
  • Views of the Pacific Ocean from many homes

Local Lifestyle

Living in Cardiff By The Sea means embracing a lifestyle where every day feels like a vacation. The community is known for its casual, beach-centric living, where residents can often surf, sunbathe, or walk along the coastline. The excellent educational opportunities add to the allure for families looking to make Cardiff their home. The neighborhood's small size fosters a close-knit environment where faces become familiar and friendships are easily nurtured. It's a place where the pace of life slows down, allowing residents to savor the simple pleasures of coastal living.
 

Dining and Shopping

Cardiff's dining scene is as vibrant as its surroundings, with options ranging from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining experiences. Pacific Coast Grill offers stunning ocean views paired with a seafood-centric menu, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. VG's Donuts is a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, serving up freshly made donuts that have become a local legend. Seaside Market is the community's culinary cornerstone, known for its "Cardiff Crack" tri-tip and a wide selection of gourmet groceries. Las Olas serves authentic Mexican cuisine with a view, embodying the laid-back coastal atmosphere of Cardiff.
 

Things to Do

Cardiff is home to a variety of attractions and activities that celebrate its coastal heritage. The Cardiff Dog Days of Summer festival is a highlight for pet owners, offering a day of fun for dogs and their humans, with contests, stalls, and plenty of tail-wagging. The Cardiff Greek Festival brings a taste of Mediterranean culture to the community, featuring traditional food, music, and dance.
 
For outdoor enthusiasts, San Elijo State Beach provides the perfect backdrop for surfing, picnicking, and camping. The Magic Carpet Ride sculpture, also known as the Cardiff Kook, offers a touch of whimsy and has become a beloved landmark, embodying the fun and quirky spirit of the neighborhood. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach or exploring the local culture through its events, Cardiff By The Sea offers endless opportunities to enjoy coastal California living at its finest.

Overview for Cardiff, CA

11,447 people live in Cardiff, where the median age is 40.7 and the average individual income is $67,469. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,447

Total Population

40.7 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$67,469

Average individual Income

Around Cardiff, CA

There's plenty to do around Cardiff, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

44
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
28
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Town & Country - The Varsity Room, Heart Center Wellness, and Four Winds Samurai Arts.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Shopping 2.28 miles 17 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.36 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.32 miles 11 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 3.92 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.12 miles 19 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 2.08 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Cardiff, CA

Cardiff has 4,289 households, with an average household size of 2.67. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Cardiff do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 11,447 people call Cardiff home. The population density is 4,949.7 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

11,447

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

40.7

Median Age

54.28 / 45.72%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
4,289

Total Households

2.67

Average Household Size

$67,469

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Cardiff, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Cardiff. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Ada W. Harris Elementary
PUBLIC
3rd - 6th
4/5
PUBLIC
K - 12th
3/5
PUBLIC
K - 2nd
No rating available
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