San Buenaventura (Ventura), CA
If you drive south on Highway 101 down the coast of the Pacific, eventually, you will reach Ventura, California. This charming little city of just over 100,000 people sits right on the Pacific Ocean. It has a small-town feel with big town commodities. Sprawling inland are many friendly neighborhoods that have a very suburban feel.
Ventura is known for having excellent public schools and quiet neighborhoods for families to grow up. The demographics show that the average education level for residents of Ventura is slightly higher than the national average. Additionally, the median income in Ventura California is a fair margin above the national average. Some of the most common jobs in the city are in healthcare. One downside is that rent and home prices are considerably higher than they are in the rest of the United States. That is because it’s California, and it’s on the ocean, and the quality of living is high.
This stretch of the coast is one of the best places to watch for whales as they make their annual migration from Mexico’s warm waters to the Arctic Ocean. Additionally, this area is one of the best places in California to go surfing. Outside the city is Arroyo Verde Park, which provides miles of scenic hiking trails as well as amenities like barbecue grills for those late summer parties with friends. If you like going to the farmers market, you’re in luck. Ventura is known as one of the main places in California for agriculture. Strawberries are its main cash crop, but many farmers grow oranges, avocados, and celery. If you like camping, there are many RV campsites along the Pacific Ocean. The campsites fill up quickly as one would expect, but if you get there early enough, you can spend the night in starlight with the sound of the waves crashing on the sand.
If you’ve been to a high-end outdoor store, chances are you’ve seen Patagonia clothing on the racks. Patagonia focuses on producing eco-friendly clothing that will last for many years. The clothing company has its headquarters in Ventura, California. It’s another promising place for people to work.
In review, Ventura California is a small city just north of Los Angeles on Highway 101. The housing costs are high, but that is just part of living in California. One can go from doing things that they would do in a big city, to walking along a lonely beach in a state park on the same day. The city has a great art scene, and plenty of excellent restaurants and breweries. In Ventura, you get an even mix of Pacific Ocean vibes, suburban lifestyle, and opportunities to pursue your career.