Moving to Ventura, California - Your Guide to a Smooth Move

Located along the Pacific Ocean between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, Ventura is a quintessential Southern California coastal city, offering a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.

Nicknamed “the city of good fortune,” it was founded in 1782 when Saint Junipero Serra established Mission San Buenaventura, the ninth of the California missions. The city is still officially San Buenaventura, the name was never officially changed. But in 1887, the Southern Pacific Railroad decided to use “Ventura” on railroad tickets, because printing “San Buenaventura” on a small stub was a challenge. The shorter name caught on quickly with locals too.

The city's commitment to preserving its historical heritage, combined with a forward-looking approach to growth and development, creates a unique living experience. You’ll find a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees living here, with a slightly higher proportion of adults in the 25-44 age range, indicating a thriving community of working professionals and young families, enjoying the city's vibrant and inclusive community atmosphere.

While the city isn't growing as rapidly as some other California locales, it maintains a consistent pace, ensuring sustainable development. This growth has been fueled by people drawn to its quality of life, beautiful surroundings, and proximity to major employment centers in Southern California.

What’s the vibe in Ventura?

Ventura is renowned for its relaxed lifestyle and friendly community. The city's historic downtown, characterized by its classic architecture and picturesque streets, is a hub of activity, featuring local shops, galleries, and restaurants. Ventura's mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters, makes it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

The city is bordered by the scenic Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, providing breathtaking views and a plethora of outdoor activities. Ventura's commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in its well-maintained beaches, parks, and green spaces.

Culturally, Ventura is a melting pot of influences, visible in the city's architecture, festivals, and community events. Ventura's arts scene is thriving, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues that showcase local and regional talent. The city's community-oriented spirit is reflected in its numerous local businesses, farmers' markets, and community events that bring residents together.

Meet the neighbors – cities close to Ventura, CA

Ventura is strategically located, offering easy access to several nearby cities and attractions. To the south lies Oxnard, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant multicultural communities. Santa Barbara, a picturesque city famous for its Mediterranean-style architecture and upscale lifestyle, is just a short drive to the north. Further inland, the city of Thousand Oaks offers excellent shopping, dining, and suburban amenities. Camarillo, situated to the east, is known for its premium outlets and charming old town. Each of these cities contributes to the rich tapestry of experiences available to Ventura residents.

Top Five Neighborhoods in Ventura

Downtown Ventura: This vibrant neighborhood is the heart of the city, with an average home price around $800,000. The area is bustling with unique shops, art galleries, and eclectic restaurants like Lure Fish House and Café Fiore. Its proximity to cultural landmarks and the beach makes it a desirable location.

East Ventura:Offering more affordable housing with an average price of $650,000, this neighborhood is popular among families. It has easy access to shopping amenities, and dining options like RedBrick Pizza and Sawasdee Thai Cuisine.

Midtown Ventura:Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Midtown features a range of homes averaging around $700,000. The area boasts convenient shopping centers and local eateries such as Spencer Makenzie's Fish Company and Pete's Breakfast House.

Pierpont Bay: A beachside community with a relaxed vibe, Pierpont Bay offers a mix of charming beach cottages and modern homes, averaging about $1.2 million. The neighborhood is close to Ventura Harbor Village, with dining options like Brophy Bros. and The Greek Mediterranean Steak & Seafood.

The Avenues: A historic area with diverse architectural styles, homes here average around $750,000. The neighborhood is close to the Ventura Botanical Gardens and features local favorites like 805 Bar & Grilled Cheese.

Ventura’s economy and job market

Ventura's job market is diverse, with key industries including healthcare, education, and technology. The city's unemployment rate generally aligns with the state average, reflecting a stable job market. The average salary in Ventura is competitive, influenced by its proximity to larger economic hubs in Southern California. Major employers include the Ventura County Health Care Agency and Ventura Unified School District, alongside a growing number of tech startups and small businesses.

Cost of living in Ventura, CA

Housingis a significant factor in the city's overall cost of living, with prices notably higher than the national average. As of January 2024, the average home price in Ventura, CA, is approximately $882,000, compared to the national average of around $416,100, homes in Ventura cost about 112% more. Rental prices are also steep, with apartments and houses commanding high rents due to the desirability of the location. This high cost of housing is a key consideration for anyone planning to move to Ventura, as it represents a substantial portion of monthly expenses.

Utilities and services are on par with or slightly above the national average for services like electricity, gas, water, and trash collection. The temperate climate helps keep heating and cooling costs relatively balanced, though summer months may see an increase in electricity usage due to air conditioning. Internet and cable services are provided by various national and local companies, offering a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. Overall, while utilities and services are not the most significant expense in Ventura, they contribute to the overall cost of living.

Groceries and foodin Ventura reflect the general trend in California, where prices tend to be higher than much of the United States. The city offers a variety of grocery shopping options, from premium organic stores to more budget-friendly supermarkets, allowing residents to choose according to their budget. Fresh produce, meat, and seafood might be more expensive, but the proximity to agricultural areas in California often means better quality and variety. Dining out in Ventura can range from affordable, casual eateries to high-end restaurants, with the average meal cost at restaurants being higher than the national average. However, the diverse culinary scene and availability of fresh, local ingredients make eating out a delightful experience, albeit a costlier one.

Transportation costsin Ventura are influenced by the city's layout and its residents' reliance on personal vehicles. The public transportation system in Ventura includes buses, but many residents find owning a car more convenient for daily commuting and errands. This leads to additional expenses in terms of car payments, maintenance, insurance, and fuel. The cost of gasoline in California is among the highest in the nation, which adds to the overall transportation expenses. But the relatively small size of the city can help reduce the distance and frequency of travel, potentially lowering transportation costs.

Healthcarein Ventura is generally more expensive compared to the national average, a trend common across California. The cost of medical services, insurance premiums, and prescription drugs can be high, although this varies widely depending on personal circumstances and the type of healthcare coverage one has. Ventura is home to several reputable hospitals and medical facilities, ensuring access to quality healthcare, but at a higher cost. For those with health insurance, either through employment, private plans, or government programs, these costs can be more manageable, but out-of-pocket expenses and deductibles still tend to be higher than in many other parts of the country.

Entertainmentexpenses in Ventura can vary greatly depending on individual lifestyles and choices. The city offers a plethora of activities ranging from free or low-cost options like beaches, parks, and hiking trails, to more expensive entertainment such as dining out, attending concerts, or participating in water sports. Ventura's cultural events, festivals, and nightlife provide ample opportunities for enjoyment but can also contribute to higher entertainment costs. Movie theaters, golf courses, and other common recreational facilities are available at prices that are typical for a California city.

Taxesin Ventura, as in the rest of California, are higher compared to many other states in the U.S. The state income tax is progressive, ranging from 1% to 13.3%, with the higher end of the scale among the most expensive in the country. Property taxes are regulated by Proposition 13, keeping them relatively lower compared to the high property values, but still significant in terms of actual dollars paid. Sales tax in Ventura is 7.75%, close to the national average.

Things to do in Ventura

Ventura is a paradise for those who love the outdoors and cultural activities. The city's beaches, like San Buenaventura State Beach, offer ideal spots for surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. The Ventura Pier and Promenade provide stunning ocean views and a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or fishing. For hiking enthusiasts, the Ventura Botanical Gardens and the nearby Los Padres National Forest offer trails with breathtaking scenery.

The city's nightlife and dining scene are vibrant, with downtown Ventura serving as a hub for entertainment. The Majestic Ventura Theater hosts concerts and events, while local bars and breweries offer a lively night out. Culinary options range from fresh seafood at Andria's Seafood Restaurant to innovative dishes at Paradise Pantry.

Schools in Ventura, CA

The Ventura Unified School District is known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. There are also several well-respected charter and private schools in the city, catering to diverse educational needs and preferences. The city's focus on education is evident in its well-equipped schools, experienced teachers, and active parent communities.

Crime in Ventura, CA

Ventura, like any city, has areas of concern regarding crime, but overall, the city is considered relatively safe. Crime rates in Ventura are generally lower than in other similarly sized cities in California. The Ventura Police Department is active in community policing and crime prevention efforts, contributing to a general sense of safety and security in the city.

Advantages to living in Ventura, CA

- Beautiful natural surroundings with beaches and mountains.

- A strong sense of community and rich cultural heritage.

- Proximity to major cities and attractions in Southern California.

- A diverse and stable job market.

Disadvantages to living in Ventura, CA

- Higher cost of living compared to the national average.

- Limited public transportation options.

- Occasional traffic congestion, especially during tourist seasons.

- Risk of natural disasters such as wildfires and earthquakes.

Making the move to Ventura

Ventura offers a unique blend of small-town charm and city conveniences. It has a vibrant downtown area with local shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, yet maintains a close-knit community feel that is welcoming to newcomers. And the location is ideal for those who want to enjoy a quieter lifestyle while still being close to major urban centers. It’s just a short drive from Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, providing easy access to larger city amenities and employment opportunities.

Ready to make Ventura your new home? Bellhop can help you get there. We’ve dedicated ourselves to figuring out how to make the moving experience as hassle-free as humanly possible.

We have long distance moving services in Ventura and local movers in Ventura that can handle any size and budget. We can help you with packing, storage, car shipping, junk removal and many other needs. And our flat rate pricing option ensures that you are not surprised by hidden fees on move day. Plus, our terrific customer support team is with you every step of the way. Tell us what you need, and we’ll do our best to find a way to make it happen.