Depends what you'd classify as good real estate. Sure La Jolla and Coronado are pricey and if you want acrerage you have to move way inland (and deal with the

Depends what you'd classify as good real estate. Sure La Jolla and Coronado are pricey and if you want acrerage you have to move way inland (and deal with the heat), but a half hour commute and $250k a year salary will get you a beautiful home in a great neighborhood. There is no way you would need a second income for you and your family to live very well on $250k in San Diego. That said a boat does get you pretty great sea views! I have a friend who slept on his boat near work in Irvine to avoid having to brave the commute back to San Diego during the week. Was cheaper (and nicer) than buying a place up in Orange County.