Unfortunately, I think $1million is probably the entry point for most places that are in demand, whether it’s coastal or RB or Poway or RP…
The difference is what you get with $1million.
Closer to coastal and/or sorrento valley, smaller house, smaller lot… RB bigger house bigger lot higher HOA/mello ruse(sic)… Further north like Carlsbad, bigger house bigger yard, closer to ocean, further away from sorrento valley (may not matter anymore)…
If you’re in a profession that allows for remote work, I’d say commute time doesn’t matter. If I were to do over, I’d probably be in Carlsbad.
If you’re in a profession that still requires in person office, I’d prefer to pick the closer location that doesn’t require a ridiculous commute… Time is money.