Lemon Grove, a city with small town charm and unique historic roots, still exhibits community pride and spirit in our modern era, boasting about having the "Best Climate on Earth", its motto for more than 100 years.  Centrally located in the southwest portion of San Diego County, Lemon Grove is only 9 miles from downtown San Diego, and only 12 miles from the airport.   

The community was settled in 1869 by its first known permanent resident, sheep rancher Robert Allison.  From the 1860's to 1900 the area was known for sheep and poultry ranching and vegetable crops.  In the early 1900's the community acquired its name when large citrus groves were planted and lemon and orange growing and shipping became the area's major industry.  By World War II, most of the citrus groves had disappeared and suburbanization had begun.  By 1960, most of the easily developable land was gone. 

Lemon Grove was incorporated as a general law city in 1977.  Now, approximately 26,000 people live in established neighborhoods including single-family homes, condominiums, and apartment buildings.  Municipal parks provide recreational opportunities, and schools and churches are scattered throughout the city. 

Lemon Grove enjoys warm, mild weather characteristic of Mediterranean climates.  Summers are warm and dry, and winters are cooler with occasional rains.  Cool ocean breezes enhance the temperate climate.  Coastal mesas and drainages dominate, and elevations range from approximately 280 feet to 530 feet above sea level.