This North County city borders Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Vista. San Marcos's central location affords it both a small-town atmosphere and ease of access to its urban centers, and those of its neighbors. The city is also an educational hub, as it's home to both California State University San Marcos and Palomar College. San Marcos's housing market is especially diverse, providing a wide range of prices and diversity of designs. Numerous parks and trails route through the city's varied terrain, allowing one to explore San Marcos's nature at whatever pace one desires.