There are a number of great family neighborhoods in San Diego, though a few come to mind right off the bat. If you are in the market for homes in San Diego and you have a family with young kids you may want to consider the following communities.  I will recommend one in the Metro San Diego area, one in the suburbs, and one gated community.

Mission Hills – Metro:  If you are the type of family that wants a city feel while still enjoying great schools and a true neighborhood type environment then you may want to consider the awesome community of Mission Hills.  It really has the best of all worlds.  Great walking community, wonderful neighbors, award winning elementary schools, possibly the best private school in the county, Francis Parker, and five minutes away from the best restaurants and nightlife.  It is also just a stone’s throw from the airport and Balboa Park.

Carmel Valley  – Suburbs:  For those looking for the perfect little suburban neighborhood away from the city and with phenominal schools then you may want to consider purchasing Carmel Valley real estate.  Ever popular with parents for top public schools, the counties biggest private Catholic and Jewish schools, great freeway access, and close proximity to the beach, Carmel Valley is worth exploring.
Santaluz – Gated Community:  Gated golf course communities are sometimes thought of as being stuffy and adult oriented.  Not Santaluz.  Santaluz is the most kid friendly gated luxury community that you will find anywhere.  They have a kids camp, tennis lessons, clubs, activities and more.  Santaluz is centered around an eleven acre park and they are known to blow up a hundred foot screen and show movies like Shrek.  Of course, it is great for the adults too with the club, world class golf course, and exceptional people that make up this special place.