Moving to Chula Vista, CA — 2022 Complete Guide

One of the most naturally stunning coastal cities in the San Diego area, living in Chula Vista offers year-round access to panoramic views, a passionate artistic community and an active lifestyle. Literally translating into “beautiful view,” the benefits of living in Chula Vista are right there in the name. Need a San Diego moving service to make sure your move to Chula Vista goes as planned? Call us today!

This incredibly diverse city hosts festivals throughout each season to honor the many cultures, artisans and natural wonders of the area. Grab a decadent seaside home by the San Diego Bay or right near their historic downtown Chula Vista neighborhood, filled with shops, bed and breakfasts and weekly farmers markets. Though some areas still see more serious crime rates, Chula Vista residents boast about the ever-improving safety of the city with each coming year.

No matter the neighborhood you choose to explore, the active community enjoys endless chances to get and enjoy their beautiful view. The city is easy to explore on foot, bike or even by horse, depending on whether you’re walking through town or exploring one of the many expansive protected parklands. Explore our guide for moving to Chula Vista to discover everything it has to offer for you and your family.
Chula Vista’s Population

Chula Vista hosts a population of 267,169 over 52 square miles, making it the second largest city by area in San Diego County. Over 59 percent of the city’s residents are of Latin American heritage with over 110,000 residents speaking Spanish as their first language. The median age of residents is 37 years old—which is slightly higher than a few years ago—but still includes a large percentage of people living in Chula Vista under the age of 18. Considered a liberal and highly welcoming city, the community is known to be passionate about their heritage and for keeping their city clean and safe.

Chula Vista Cost of Living

Though the area is considered a bit less expensive than nearby San Diego, the cost of living in many parts of Chula Vista can be a bit steep. The median home value is over $535,000 while rent prices in Chula Vista have a high median $2,500 for an apartment. Though you save on home prices compared to San Diego itself, the cost of transportation is a bit higher, mainly due to the large number of people commuting for work.

Overall, the average cost of living in Chula Vista levels out with the area’s median household income of $68,699, providing access to management and business jobs throughout the region.

With a long list of free things to do in Chula Vista—from its beaches to ample green space with outdoor festivals—one can balance the high cost of living in Chula Vista with a less expensive yet active lifestyle.

Chula Vista also aims to cuts down both its cost of living and carbon footprint but designing a walkable and bikeable city, especially with its over 100 miles of biking trails. A public trolley and bus system also run throughout the city, assisting those who would prefer to forgo owning a car.

Explore Chula Vista’s Neighborhoods

Livabilty.com rates Chula Vista as one of the top places to raise a family in the country. Chula Vista neighborhoods range in price, safety and accessibility, but schools throughout the city receive consistently high marks.

As one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the nation, North Chula Vista features a collection of apartment developments and affordable homes for large families and individuals alike. The downtown area, known as the Third Avenue Village, has undergone recent developments to improve pedestrian access to town, landscaping and bike access.

More opulent neighborhoods, on the Chula Vista map, such as Bella Lago, hosts a median income of over $130k a year. At the same time, these pricier spots are also some of the safest areas to live in Chula Vista, some of which completely contained as a housing association development. Master plans for other main downtown spots are currently underway to increase the overall energy and look of the city.

Schools in Chula Vista

With such a large number of children living in Chula Vista, educational opportunities run the gamut from religious-affiliated private academies to highly rated public schools. Several of the town’s schools, such as Arroyo Vista Charter School and Veterans Elementary earned top marks across the internet’s top ranking systems.

Several colleges, such as Southwestern College, United Education Institute and Pima Medical Institute graduate thousands of students every year. Students also have access to ample universities in San Diego such as USD, San Diego State University and Point Loma Nazarene.

Things to do in Chula Vista

Above all, there are more than enough fun things to do in Chula Vista no matter your age or family size. Begin by checking out the natural beauty of the San Diego Bay at the Living Coast Discovery Center, designed to educate and uphold the natural ecosystems throughout the region. Children and adults can get up-close-and-personal with local wildlife while learning about how to protect the environment in their everyday lives.

If you’re a sports buff or are particularly passionate about the Olympics, stop by the Olympic training center to see future competitors prepare for the upcoming international games. Guided tours give you access behind the scenes, teaching you about the history of the center and showing off the grounds where famous athletes continue to train year-round.

Spend a beautiful day outside with the kids exploring the Otay River Valley Regional Park with 200 acres of biking and biking trails, playing fields and picnic areas and ample birdwatching. Afterward, head to Aquatica San Diego with the kids, a SeaWorld waterpark located in Chula Vista. Slides and water activities for all ages make this perfect for hot summer days.

Lemon-Friendly Weather

There’s no question why Chula Vista is the lemon capital of the world. Year-round sunny skies and warm weather are ideal for growing and enjoying local produce. The stunning weather does encourage a community with endless outdoor activities. The average high temperature in the summer only reaches the upper 70s which the lows in the winter are 46 in the coldest of months. Without a frost to prepare for, the area is ideal for growth and enjoyment of everything the coastal city has to offer.

Working in Chula Vista

An array of healthcare, manufacturing, arts and education opportunities make up some of the best jobs in Chula Vista. With such a concentration of colleges and universities, Chula Vista is home to a large population of professors and administrators. Wellness, health and sports medicine is all a hot industry in the city, including work at the well-known Olympic training center.

The city’s website also speaks to the importance of tourism-related jobs in Chula Vista, supporting small businesses that welcome the many visitors who come to the area for beaches, festivals and Chula Vista sightseeing that many enjoy throughout the year.

Once you’re sold on the stunning Chula Vista landscape and enthusiastic community, we can move you with thorough organization and ease. Offering both local and long-distance Chula Vista moving services, we guide families and businesses alike looking to move to the area. Give us a call to speak to us about our packing and storage services as well.

Living in Chula Vista is bursting with opportunities to enjoy coastal life to its fullest. Speak with us today about making your move quick and stress-free.