Have you heard about Hillcrest? Almost everybody knows of Hillcrest's reputation as the center of gay and lesbian life in San Diego. With bars, restaurants, shops, and services all geared towards the gay and lesbian consumer, Hillcrest is a vibrant and somewhat cosmopolitan focal point for our community.

Hillcrest (92103) has also been a wonderful place to invest as well. Twenty years ago Hillcrest was an affordable (almost seedy) area where houses and condo's were reasonably priced and fixer-uppers went for next to nothing. Nowadays a trust fund or six figure income are almost required to buy into Hillcrest's best streets.

Congratulations to the early settlers, but what about the rest of us? Luckily, Hillcrest's charms are spreading to other areas of the city as well. Azalea Park has been flying the rainbow flag for years as well. Tucked at the southern end of City Heights (92105) among canyons and windy streets, Azalea Park still boasts affordable housing and a very friendly atmosphere. North Park (92104) has already gentrified somewhat and is considered a very friendly area as well. Other areas that I work in that are considered top gay and lesbian neighborhoods include University Heights and Normal Heights (92116) as well as El Cerrito Heights (92115) and Golden Hill (92102). As the saying goes, "We are everywhere!"

Contributed by Drew Cross