About San Luis Obispo's Monterey Heights

Monterey Heights, one of the older neighborhoods in San Luis Obispo, is also one of the most eclectic. Narrow, winding streets climb the hilly terrain, providing great views over the city and the surrounding hills. Homes range from 1920s Spanish-style bungalows with period details still intact to striking California Moderne houses perched on stilts looking out over the Edna Valley.

Cal Poly lies nearby, to the north and west, while the 101 freeway is the southern border. Students rent many of the homes on the north and west sides, making for a more lively, mixed neighborhood. Farther uphill, toward the freeway and Cuesta Park, is a quieter, more family-oriented area. A few vacant lots are available, and existing home prices can range from $500,000 to over $1M. Many homes are sited on fairly steep hillsides, which emphasize the fine views but also limit usable yard space and may require two or more story construction.

A special feature is Cuesta Park, which is situated on a creek between San Luis Drive and the freeway (but easily accessible) from Monterey Heights. It has family picnic areas, a group party/barbeque area, a great children's playground, and plenty of open space for ball games. Bring a sack lunch and spend an hour relaxing under the sycamores or dipping your feet in the cool creek while your kids wear themselves out on the playground equipment.

Monterey Heights has easy freeway access, with an offramp and onramp at the top of Monterey street. It's just a few blocks from downtown San Luis Obispo's restaurants, shops, and other attractions, but secluded enough to be a quiet getaway. This is an idyllic neighborhood with quiet streets, well-maintained homes of many vintages, and friendly neighbors.