Page 66 - 2023-2024 UCSD Med-Peds Recruitment e-Brochure

Cost of Living in San Diego

Some people ask about the cost of living in San Diego. Residents at UCSD are
unionized and have negotiated salaries which include a generous housing stipend
to allow you to live comfortably either as a single person, couple or family and still
take great vacations. There are many neighborhoods to live in San Diego whether
you are looking for something that is walkable to trendy restaurants, something
closer to the beach or looking for a good school district for a growing family.

Here are some of the things our residents have to say about Living in San Diego!

SAMARA SORUS, PGY-4

Neighborhood: Mission Hills, Lives with self and dog, Willow

What do you love about San Diego and what’s it like to live on a resident salary?

“As I'm writing this, I just returned from one of San Diego's multiple dog-beaches,
where my dog, Willow, and I hang out at least once a week. San Diego is such a
beautiful (and dog friendly!) city. The weather is nice, pretty much all the time,

which means all your time away from the hospital is sunny! You have to try Carne
Asada fries and California Burritos if you haven't already, but the good food here
extends beyond the Mexican food. And when we have a little more time, my co-
residents and I have done short trips from San Diego to Joshua Tree, Rosarito, the
Channel Islands and more !”

ALLIE COTTER, PGY-3

Neighborhood: Crown Point, lives with partner and dog, Murphy

What do you love about San Diego and what’s it like to live on a resident salary?

“You are guaranteed to have a beautiful day off! I love that no matter the season
I can plan fun outdoor activities on my day off without worrying about the
weather. Also, the people here are very laid back and welcoming!

Moving here from the Midwest I was very worried about the cost of living.
However, our salary is adjusted to the cost of living! I am able to eat out, go on
vacations, go shopping, and enjoy life outside of work comfortably. I do not feel

that I struggle financially more than my friends who live in other parts of the
country.”