- Usually surrounding Balboa Park, with most located on the "Urban Mesa" north and northeast of Downtown San Diego.
- They are characterized by grid street plans, higher levels of pedestrianism, mixed-use, and higher density development. They contrast with the newer low-density developments in the city's suburbs.
- The urban communities tend to be older, predating the present day predominant car culture. There has been reinvesting in these communities in the late 20th century and early 21st century, after decades of disinterest, resulting in gentrification and increasing home prices.
| Northwestern (District 1) | |
|---|---|
| Western (District 2) | |
| Central (District 3) | |
| Southeastern (District 4) | |
| Northeastern (District 5) | |
| Northern (District 6) | |
| Eastern (District 7) | |
| Southern & South (District 8) | |
| Mid-City (District 9) | |