ocrenter mentioned San Marcos. We purchased a SFR in the San Elijo Hills community of San Marcos (close to the Carlsbad border) in late 2011 and absolutely love it. Here’s a townhome down the hill from us in your parameters (albeit a bit smaller sf):
I work in UTC and find the 20 mile commute manageable. If you’re going downtown, might be a bit of a stretch. Nice proximity to the beach and all the shopping you’ll need in San Marcos, Encinitas and Carlsbad Outlets.
