Spring Valley's housing stock is dominated by single-family homes on usable lots, reflecting its post-World War II growth from a rural ranching area into a suburban community. The area holds a mix of mid-century subdivisions, hillside homes with views, and newer communities in Rancho San Diego, alongside a notable supply of manufactured and mobile-home parks. Lots tend to offer more yard space than coastal San Diego neighborhoods. The market is characterized by established, moderately scaled single-family homes rather than high-rise or dense new construction.

Rancho San Diego is Spring Valley's most prominent neighborhood, a family-oriented community of newer homes, parks, and schools set against mountain views. The Mount Helix area rises to the north, where hillside streets and custom homes climb toward the landmark park, and the unincorporated community of Casa de Oro adjoins it to the east. Central Spring Valley holds the community's older subdivisions and commercial corridors, while the southern reaches transition toward the rolling foothills and open space. Each area shares East County's characteristic mix of established streets and usable lots.

Spring Valley offers a relaxed, family-oriented East County lifestyle. The community's neighborhoods—particularly Rancho San Diego—are known for their mountain views, well-kept yards, and abundance of parks, drawing families, young professionals, and retirees. Daily life centers on schools, local parks, and the shopping and dining corridors along the area's main roads, while the proximity to La Mesa, El Cajon, and downtown San Diego keeps the region's jobs, beaches, and entertainment within easy reach. The pace is unhurried and suburban, with a close-knit, welcoming character.

Spring Valley's public schools are split between two districts. Elementary and middle school students attend the La Mesa–Spring Valley School District, which also serves La Mesa, part of El Cajon, and the communities of Casa de Oro and Mount Helix. High school students move on to the Grossmont Union High School District, whose campuses include Helix High School—a charter school serving parts of Spring Valley—and Mount Miguel High School within the community. The area also has private and parochial options nearby.

Spring Valley is well connected by freeway. State Route 94 and State Route 125 run through or alongside the community, linking residents to downtown San Diego about thirteen miles west, and to Chula Vista, El Cajon, and La Mesa. Interstate 8 lies a short drive north. MTS bus routes serve the area and connect to the region's trolley system, while the proximity to San Diego's employment centers makes Spring Valley a practical commuter base for much of the county.

Mount Helix Park is the centerpiece of outdoor recreation, offering hiking trails, a nature theater, and panoramic views from its hilltop cross. The Rancho San Diego area contributes a network of neighborhood parks, sports fields, and open space, and the surrounding East County foothills provide trails and natural areas. Residents are also a short drive from Mission Trails Regional Park and the Sweetwater Reservoir area, while downtown San Diego's waterfront, beaches, and Balboa Park are within easy reach by freeway.