Moving to Vista, CA – 2022 Complete Guide

Considering moving to Vista, CA? You’re not alone. This stunning, affordable and accessible area is growing in popularity each year. Whether it’s the incredible Vista schools, rich diversity or an ample list of things to do, the population of Vista is only set to keep growing. Its elevated terrain lends Vista its name, which translates appropriately into “view.” Looking out over the Pacific ocean just seven miles away, the northern part of town has ocean views throughout the year. A relatively young city, the history of Vista goes back to its establishment in 1963. It has since blossomed into a thriving city with theatres, amusement parks and active popular hiking trails.

If you’re looking for a life by the sea but want to avoid expensive beach towns, moving to Vista is a lovely option. Only 20 minutes to the shore by car, residents can zip over for a swim in the morning and head back home with little-to-no planning. Vista is known for its temperate weather, popular waterpark and friendly, community-focused neighborhoods. Find out why we are one of the top San Diego moving companies by inquiring today about your Vista move!

Let’s check out whether moving to Vista is right for you and your family.

Vista, CA Population

Many ask, “Where is Vista, CA?”. Well, Vista is in San Diego County and close to almost all that San Diego County has to offer.

The population of vista is slowly approaching 100,000 people but still sits just under at 99,496. As more and more people see the benefits of moving to Vista, population growth is projected to keep rising. Still, with over 18 square miles of stunning land, the population density of Vista is still suburban and comfortable.

Vista’s diverse demographics are quite impressive, bringing amply culture to the region. Over 48% of the Vista population is over Hispanic descent. Residents living in Vista also speak a list a large range of different languages, including Spanish, Tagalog and Vietnamese. Vista’s diversity adds to its thriving arts scene, incredible restaurants and liberal-leaning views.

Cost of Living in Vista

So, how much does it cost to live in Vista? Practical Vista cost of living, from home prices to amenities are drawing new residents in from across the state. Although it is commutable to San Diego and within a 3-hour drive to LA, the average cost of living in Vista is quite manageable. The number of homeowners and renters are split down the middle. Median home prices in Vista are just under $400,000 and median rent at about $1,400 a month.

Both home prices and the median household income are both on the rise, however. Between 2015 and 2016, the median home price jumped nearly 9%. Clearly, the benefits of living in Vista are spreading throughout the region, from its good schools and convenient location. Other factors such as groceries, restaurants and utilities in Vista are on-par or only just above the national average. In comparison to other LA and San Diego suburbs, cost of living in Vista is quite desirable.

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Exploring the Diverse Neighborhoods of Vista

No matter which Vista neighborhood you choose, enjoy access to two major highways — 15 and 78 — that cut right through town. The northern side of town hosts more commercial developments with large properties and operational horse ranches. As the older side of town, the northern neighborhoods have an old, mod-style feel with space to spread out and take in the ocean views. Expensive neighborhoods in Vista become more common as you head south, where more modern homes fill the landscape.

The downtown mainstreet area has old-Hollywood energy, with an art-deco-style theatre at the center of town. A collection of old and new blend into a diverse and eye-catching architecture, making Vista a great place to both visit and live.

A handful of popular developments and neighborhoods in Vista include:

• Twin Oaks
• Oak Dr. Villas
• Main Street
• Vista Village

The safest neighborhoods in Vista sit to the northeast of route 78, especially as you head up to higher elevations in the northernmost region. Safety and cost of home do tend to correlate, though there are plenty of neighborhoods throughout Vista that are safe and welcoming.

Weather in Vista

If you chat with someone from town, they’re bound to mention the idyllic year-round weather in Vista. The area enjoys all of the stunning ocean-side perks of Southern California climate with a bit of elevation to cool things down. Enjoy an average of 258 sunny days a year, ideal for heading to Green Oak Ranch for the day or the local waterpark.

There’s also no need to worry about temperatures rising to high in the summer. The average high in Just and August peak at 83 degrees, remaining comfortable for most of the year. Temperatures in Vista can be a bit cooler in the winter compared to other towns in Southern California, but you’ll rarely see them go below 40.

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Things to Do in Vista

Even with the ocean a 15-minute drive to the west, there is plenty to do in Vista right in town. The downtown Vista area is as charming as a Main Street right out of a history book. Here you’ll find fantastic restaurants, a local brewery, yoga studios and beautiful parks. One of the highlights of downtown Vista is the AVO Playhouse. With architecture right out of the 1940’s, the iconic building now hosts live performances but the local theatre company.

If the weather is beautiful — as it often is — head over to the Moonlight Amphitheatre in Brengle Terrace Park to catch an outdoor concert or show as you sit under the stars. The park itself also features a botanical garden, recreation center, and acres of green space to take in the surrounding views.

You will also find plenty to with kids in Vista. The Wave Waterpark is the obvious pick, with a lazy river and waterslides for all ages. If your children are passionate about trains and vehicles, head over to the Antique Gas and Steam Museum, which features early-American machinery and technology. Afterward, head over to Little Cakes bakery for a cupcake for them and homemade cold brew for yourself.

For a free activity in Vista, the local library system features plenty of kids programming and story times throughout the week. Wildwood Park and Breeze Hill Park also provide plenty of space to explore, play on jungle gyms and pick up a game of baseball or soccer.

Jobs in Vista

Though the median household income is a bit lower for those living in Vista, the lower cost of makes this possible. Still, over 45,000 people have jobs located in Vista itself. Some of the top industries of the area include healthcare and social assistance, agriculture and manufacturing and retail. Several tech companies based in Vista also provide administrative, management and programming jobs to the area. Plenty of those living in Vista also commute to San Diego or surrounding areas for work, which is made easy by the major highways cutting through town.

Vista, CA Schools

There’s no doubt that families are moving to Vista for the excellent school systems. The Vista Unified School District serves the area with traditionally public, charter and magnet schools. Several of Vista public schools receive excellent ratings across the board, including Mission Vista and San Marcos High School. The town also offers Vista Charter schools with top marks, including Guajome Park Academy and North Country Trade. Nearly all schools in Vista are highly ranked among the top schools in the state. Several private, religiously affiliated schools are also offered to Vista residents.

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Relocating to Vista

If you’re moving to Vista, or simply wondering what it’s like to live in the area, give our experienced team a call today. At Move Central, we specialize in both local and long-distance moving services to Vista as well as commercial move, storage and packing needs. We have experience navigating the area to make moving to Vista as simple and straightforward as possible. Before you begin, meet with our team for a detailed estimate to cover all your moving, packing and storage needs.