escondido

Escondido is a city in northern San Diego County, California, United States. Located about 30 miles north of downtown San Diego, it is one of the county’s larger cities by population. As of the 2020 census, Escondido had a population of about 151,000 and it covers roughly 37 square miles. The name Escondido comes from Spanish for "hidden."

Escondido sits in a valley at the edge of the North County inland region. It experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The city is bordered by hills and rivers, including Escondido Creek, and is near the Palomar Mountains.

The area was originally inhabited by the Luiseño people and was later part of Mexican land grants; settlement accelerated with the arrival of the railroad, and Escondido was incorporated in 1888.

Escondido's economy includes healthcare, education, government, and retail, with Palomar Health operating a major hospital in the city and municipal services as significant local employers. The population is diverse, with a substantial Hispanic or Latino community.

The city hosts the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, a regional performing and visual arts venue. The nearby San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a major attraction in the northern part of the city. Escondido also maintains a historic downtown with cultural events and public art.

Transportation and education: Escondido is served by Interstate 15 and State Route 78; the North County Transit District operates the Sprinter light rail, linking the Escondido Transit Center to Oceanside. The city is served by the Escondido Union High School District and Escondido Union School District, and nearby Palomar College serves the region.