<h1 style="text-align: center;">El Cajon, <em>San Diego</em></h1>
<p>Thirty minutes east of downtown San Diego is El Cajon, a valley surrounded by mountains, and the source of its name. It covers a large, sprawling area, and is home to more than 100,000 residents. One of its notable residents is Jimmie Johnson, of NASCAR fame, and it's also the home of Taylor Guitars, played by George Strait, Dave Matthews and Katy Perry. The median home price is $499,000.</p>
<p>With all of Mission Valley's choices a short 20 minute drive away, El Cajon offers many mid-price dining and shopping options. Parkway Plaza is a large indoor mall, that features an 18 screen movie theater, plus IMAX. Dining is fast casual, with Applebee's and other familiar chains.</p>
<p>El Cajon has a number of small parks, including a community pool and a skate park. A short drive away, Mission Trails Regional Park has many types of trails within its 50 square mile boundaries. This is another higher-than-normal temp area in the summer.</p>