A busy residential and commercial neighborhood that occupies a large portion of San Diego inland is Mira Mesa. Mira Mesa offers numerous employment and living opportunities to residents. Many major employers are found in the Sorrento Valley Business and Technology park. Mira Mesa, though a suburb of San Diego, has build an independent community all its own that is enjoyed by all residents who choose to call Mira Mesa their home.

Just north and also west of Mira Mesa are the Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve and the Lopez Canyon Open space. Both of these large areas boast nature trails, sitings of native wildlife species, and campgrounds. To the south and the east of Mira Mesa lie the Miramar Marine Corps Air Station, which is home to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Aircraft Group 46, and Combat Logistics Company 11. This base lies on 23,116 acres of San Diego land and is split into two parts: an undeveloped eastern portion used for training and a western section that serves as the primary base and also hosts and airfield. Every year, the Miramar Air Show draws large crowds to see the spectacular military aircraft maneuvers and the popular Blue Angels.

Many Mira Mesa residents are military individuals and families who choose to live off the main base. The population of Mira Mesa is very diverse, however, since the area has attracted many because of its desirable location between I-5 and I-15. Mira Mesa has attracted so many residents that it has grown to be the largest neighborhood in San Diego.

Residents enjoy a slew of recreational opportunities and facilities, including community parks, teen and senior centers, aquatic complexes, an ice arena, and more. Winterwood Community Park, Mesa Verde Park, Maddox Park, Mea Viking Park, Sandburg Park, Hourglass Field Community Park, and Westview Park are just a few of the numerous parks in the area. For shopping, Mira Mesa residents are covered, as there is a wide range of shopping opportunities including the Mira Mesa Marketcenter and Mira Mesa Mall, which host many stores and services.

Across the interstate from Mira Mesa is Miramar Reservoir, a popular recreational destination because of its long trail that circles the lake and offers the opportunity for joggers, bikers, rollerbladers, and more to come enjoy the reservoir. Also, fishermen and boatsmen come to use the facility as well.