Moving to Thousand Oaks, CA, offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility, natural beauty, and proximity to the bustling cities of Southern California. Located in Ventura County, Thousand Oaks is renowned for its high quality of life, expansive green spaces, and top-rated schools.
Before making the move to Thousand Oaks, it's important to understand various aspects of living in this city, including the cost of living, housing market, and community amenities.
Where is Thousand Oaks Located?
Thousand Oaks, California, is located in the southeastern portion of Ventura County, nestled in the Conejo Valley. It is part of the Greater Los Angeles area, situated approximately 40 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles and about 15 miles from the city limits of Los Angeles itself.
This city, incorporated in 1964, is named after the numerous oak trees that populate the area, a feature that contributes to its name and natural beauty.
The city covers a land area of about 55.18 square miles, with a small portion of water, and sits at an elevation of 886 feet. Its geographical coordinates are 34.1706° N latitude and 118.8375° W longitude, placing it well within the Pacific Time Zone.
As of the latest data from July 2023, the population of Thousand Oaks is approximately 125,689, making it the second-largest city in Ventura County. Over the past decade, the city has experienced some fluctuations in population, peaking at around 128,661 in 2015 but seeing a gradual decline since then.
This decline is reflective of broader demographic trends in certain suburban areas. Despite this, Thousand Oaks remains a sought-after location due to its proximity to major urban centers, its extensive green spaces, and its reputation for a high quality of life.
Population of Thousand Oaks
As of 2024, the population of Thousand Oaks, California, is estimated to be around 126,966 residents. This figure reflects a slight decline from previous years, continuing a trend that has seen the city’s population gradually decrease since it peaked at approximately 128,661 in 2015.
Between 2021 and 2023, Thousand Oaks experienced a population decrease of around 2,655 residents, a trend partly influenced by broader demographic shifts and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite this decline, Thousand Oaks remains one of the largest cities in Ventura County and continues to attract residents due to its high quality of life and proximity to major urban centers like Los Angeles.
Thousand Oaks Cost of Living
The cost of living in Thousand Oaks, California, is significantly higher than both the national and California state averages. As of 2024, the overall cost of living index for Thousand Oaks is 166.4, meaning it is 66.4% more expensive than the national average.
Housing is the most significant factor contributing to this high cost, with the median home price in the area reaching approximately $978,164. This figure is substantially higher than the national median home price of $338,100 and even exceeds the California average of $733,500. Renting is also costly, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment around $2,870 per month, which is more than double the national average.
Real Estate in Thousand Oaks
The real estate market in Thousand Oaks, CA, remains robust and continues to attract both buyers and investors, especially in 2024.
The median sale price for homes in Thousand Oaks has been hovering around $1.1 million, marking a steady increase from previous years. This rise in prices is a clear indicator of the ongoing demand in this desirable area.
Despite the increase in inventory, the market still leans towards being a seller’s market, with multiple offers being the norm for many listings. However, the market is showing signs of stabilization, which could lead to a more balanced environment in the coming months.
Schools in Thousand Oaks
The educational landscape in Thousand Oaks, CA, is highly regarded, offering a mix of public and private schools that cater to diverse academic needs. The Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) oversees most of the public schools in the area, many of which rank among the top in the state.
For instance, Lang Ranch Elementary School and Wildwood Elementary School are consistently rated highly for their academic performance, particularly in math and reading proficiency. At the middle and high school levels, Los Cerritos Middle School and Westlake High School stand out, with Westlake known for its strong Advanced Placement (AP) program and overall academic excellence.
Job Market in Thousand Oaks
The job market in Thousand Oaks, CA, remains strong and diverse, reflecting the overall stability of the region's economy. As of 2024, Thousand Oaks continues to offer a wide range of employment opportunities, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, education, and retail.
Major employers in the area include Amgen, one of the world's leading biotechnology companies, which has its headquarters in the city, as well as Los Robles Hospital & Medical Center and the Conejo Valley Unified School District.
The city also benefits from a relatively low unemployment rate, currently hovering around 2.8%, which is well below the national average. This low unemployment rate, coupled with the availability of jobs across various sectors, makes Thousand Oaks an attractive place for both job seekers and businesses.
Thousand Oaks Climate
Thousand Oaks, California, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. August is typically the warmest month, with average high temperatures around 78.4°F (25.8°C) and lows of about 63.7°F (17.6°C).
The city experiences low humidity levels, which contribute to comfortable weather conditions even during the warmer months. On average,
Thousand Oaks sees around 268 sunny days per year, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Rainfall is minimal during the summer, with August typically seeing only about 0.12 inches of precipitation over approximately 1.5 days.
Getting Around Thousand Oaks
Getting around Thousand Oaks, CA, is relatively convenient, with several transportation options available to residents and visitors alike.
The primary public transportation system is Thousand Oaks Transit (TOT), which offers five fixed bus routes that connect key areas within the city, including popular destinations such as The Oaks shopping center, Los Robles Hospital, and California Lutheran University.
These buses operate Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The fares are affordable, with one-way tickets priced at $2.00, while seniors and individuals with disabilities can ride for just $0.50.
Additionally, students from grades 1 through 12, as well as college students, can ride TOT buses for free anywhere within Ventura County by presenting their student ID. TOT buses are equipped with amenities like free Wi-Fi, bike racks, and security cameras to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Parks and Nature
Thousand Oaks, CA, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a wealth of parks and natural spaces that offer a variety of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. One of the standout locations is Wildwood Regional Park, which spans over 1,765 acres and features 14 trails covering 17 miles.
The park is perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, with well-maintained paths that vary in difficulty. It also offers stunning views, particularly in the spring when the wildflowers bloom.
The park is a favorite among locals for its serene environment and the opportunities it provides for outdoor education and wildlife observation. Additionally, it hosts Trail Education Days, an annual event for 4th graders from the Conejo Valley, making it a vital educational resource in the community.
Arts and Culture
Thousand Oaks, CA, has a vibrant arts and culture scene that is anchored by the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, one of the largest performing arts centers between Los Angeles and San Francisco.
This venue hosts a diverse array of events, including Broadway shows, concerts, and performances by renowned artists. The 2024-2025 season features highlights such as "The Book of Mormon," "Motown Mania," and a tribute to Barbra Streisand, among others.
The center also collaborates with local arts organizations like the New West Symphony and 5-Star Theatricals, offering residents and visitors a rich cultural experience throughout the year.
Dining and Shopping
Thousand Oaks, CA, offers a rich and diverse dining and shopping experience, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The Oaks, a premier shopping center in the city, is a central hub for both retail and culinary delights.
This expansive mall features top retail brands such as Apple, Zara, Nordstrom, and Williams-Sonoma, making it a prime destination for shoppers. When it comes to dining, The Oaks doesn’t disappoint.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines from popular spots like The Cheesecake Factory, Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, and Urban Plates.
Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite at Chipotle or a more refined meal at Bazille inside Nordstrom, The Oaks has something for everyone. The shopping center also hosts events and farmers' markets, adding to its vibrant community atmosphere.
Crime Rates in Thousand Oaks
Thousand Oaks, CA, is known for its relatively low crime rates, making it one of the safer cities in both California and the United States. As of 2024, the city has a total crime rate of about 12 per 1,000 residents, which places it in the 85th percentile for safety among U.S. cities.
This means that Thousand Oaks is safer than 85% of cities across the nation. Specifically, the violent crime rate is particularly low, with only 0.61 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is significantly below the national average. The chance of becoming a victim of a violent crime in Thousand Oaks is approximately 1 in 1,635, compared to 1 in 200 across California.
Property crime, while more common than violent crime, is still lower than the national average. The property crime rate in Thousand Oaks stands at about 11 per 1,000 residents, which includes theft, vehicle theft, and burglary.
This gives residents a 1 in 88 chance of experiencing property crime. The city’s overall crime statistics have remained relatively stable, with a slight increase in property crimes over recent years, possibly due to economic factors and population density variations within certain parts of the city.
Despite these minor fluctuations, Thousand Oaks continues to be regarded as a very safe community, particularly in the northwest regions, which are considered the safest within the city.
Living in Thousand Oaks
Living in Thousand Oaks, CA, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and access to urban amenities, making it a highly desirable location for families, retirees, and professionals alike. The city, located in Ventura County, boasts a population of approximately 128,000 residents.
Known for its safety, Thousand Oaks consistently ranks among the safest cities in the United States. The crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, with violent crimes being particularly rare, contributing to a strong sense of community and security.
The city's appeal is further enhanced by its top-tier school system, which includes several schools recognized for their excellence both at the state and national levels.
However, the high quality of life in Thousand Oaks comes with a corresponding cost. The cost of living is about 66% higher than the national average, driven primarily by housing expenses.
The median home price is nearly $978,000, making it a challenging market for first-time homebuyers. Despite these costs, residents enjoy a peaceful environment with abundant green spaces, including over 150 miles of trails and numerous parks.
The lack of a central downtown area contributes to the city's quieter, more relaxed vibe, which is a draw for those seeking a slower pace of life. Nevertheless, the proximity to Los Angeles means that residents can easily access the cultural and commercial offerings of a major metropolitan area when desired.
If you plan on moving to Thousand Oaks, hiring professional movers in Thousand Oaks, CA is highly recommended. Not only will they handle the logistics of transporting your belongings, but they can also provide valuable insights into navigating the city's transportation network, ensuring a smoother relocation process.
Given the city's layout and the spread-out nature of its amenities, a moving company can help familiarize you with the area, making your transition to Thousand Oaks more comfortable.
