Best location for condo near 5/805 merge - La Jolla - Torrey Pines area (Mesa: short sale)

[Powella1]

I am considering a job located near the 5 / 805 merge near La Jolla. I have a home in the mountains of Colorado and won't be selling that - so need to keep the purchase price down----250k or less if possible. I am going to get a condo 1000 sq ft or less and have the time to pursue a short sale.

My question is best location. Ideally I would like to be able to bike to work and to the ocean - 10-15 mile range max. I would also like to be within walking distance of shops, community center, social centers etc.... I would probably trade off a longer commute for being in a cool neighborhood. We are very earthy, liberal, re-gentrification neighborhood sorts. I travel a lot as well - so am looking for a place where my wife can get to know people and form a social network - we are early 50s / artistic / foodies etc....

on a side note / related - I will be looking for a master's swim group - pool or open water. recommendations? Thanks in advance!

[NYSD1995]

Kind of tough to hit all or really any of your reqs in the 250k range. Especially the walkable bit.

If your price needs to stay that low, I would look at proximity above all else since you are looking at the most expensive part of the county. You might be able to find something small in UTC, otherwise you should be able to get something nicer in Mira Mesa. If you can stay on the west side, it is a nicer area than on the east side.