Have you decided to leap and prepare to move to Chula Vista, CA, the “Lemon Capital of The World”? You have landed at the right place!
Chula Vista is one of South California’s safest and 7th most significant cities. The name “Chula Vista” means ‘beautiful view’ in Spanish. Initially, it was a territory of the Kumeyaay Indians that became a segment of the newly declared Mexican Empire in 1821.
Chula Vista is known for its citrus orchards, vineyards, and farms. It is a growing hub for urban brewing. The city also hosts the Chula Vista Lemon Festival, home to the US Olympic training center, Chula Vista marina, breathtaking coastal mountains, and San Diego Bay views, thereby making the city a desirable place to relocate to.
There needs to be more! As you embark on your new journey, you must learn more about the city to make wise decisions. Let’s delve into the blog post without pausing to gain more information before relocating to Chula Vista, CA.
Quick facts before moving to Chula Vista
Where is Chula Vista CA located?
Chula Vista, CA, is in the South Bay region of San Diego County. It’s about 7.5 miles from both downtown San Diego and Tijuana. San Diego Bay bounds it to the west and Jamul and San Ysidro Mountains to the east.
Population in Chula Vista, CA
The population of Chula Vista, CA, as of 2022, is 279,170 people.
It’s the 15th most populated city in California out of 1,571 cities.
Chula Vista’s population has been growing at 0.27% annually.
Diversity in Chula Vista, CA
Chula Vista is recognized for its diversity, ranked as the 156th most diverse suburb in California and 870th in the United States.
With a diversity score of 93 out of 100, Chula Vista, CA, the racial composition comprises:
- Hispanic or Latino- 60.2%,
- White- 16.3%
- Asian- 14.8%
Cost of living in Chula Vista, CA
Moving to Chula Vista, California is a significant undertaking that includes a 35% higher cost of living than the national average, with a Cost of Living index for Chula Vista being 154.9.
- Housing expenses in Chula Vista are notably high, followed by grocery prices that are 12% higher, and transportation expenses, including bus fares and gas prices, are 32% higher than the US average.
- The median household income in Chula Vista is $92,913, and the median income for an individual is $41,364.
- To live comfortably in Chula Vista, a single person must earn $79,324 after taxes, covering basic living expenses, discretionary spending, and savings or debt payments.
- A minimum annual income of $145,440 is recommended for a family to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
- The average cost of living in Chula Vista, California, is $2932 per month.
Here is a detailed table for the cost of living index in Chula Vista, CA:
Expense Category | Chula Vista | National Average | Difference |
Overall Cost of Living | 154.9 | 100 | 54.9% higher |
Housing | $865,263 (Median Home Price) | $338,100 (National Average) | 155.8% higher |
Rent | $2,631 (Median Rent) | $1,430 (National Average) | 83.9% higher |
Utilities | $199.81 (Energy Bill) | Varies | Varies |
Transportation | $4.47 (Gas) | Varies | Varies |
Food & Grocery | 12% higher | 100 | 12% higher |
Healthcare | 4% higher | 100 | 4% higher |
Housing market in Chula Vista, CA
A prompt decision is required to build or purchase a home in the city after moving to Chula Vista, CA, as the Chula Vista housing market is extremely competitive, with homes receiving multiple offers and selling quickly.
- The average house price in Chula Vista was $750K last month.
- The median sale price of a home in Chula Vista was $750K last month, with a median sale price per square foot of $476.
- The homeownership rate in Chula Vista, CA, is 59.5% of 82,354 occupied housing units, of which 40.47% have renters.
- The median listing home price per square foot in Chula Vista was $492 in 2023.
- The average rent for an apartment in Chula Vista is $2,560.
- The average rent for a studio apartment in Chula Vista is $2,275.
- For a 1-bedroom apartment, the average rent in Chula Vista is $2,085.
- Approximately $3,301 is the average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Chula Vista.
- The average rent for a 3-bedroom home in Chula Vista is around $4,955.
Job opportunities in Chula Vista, CA
Chula Vista, CA, will offer various engineering, land surveying, and nursing jobs. The city has prepared for economic growth, boasting quality infrastructure, a solid consumer base, and a skilled workforce. Upon moving to Chula Vista, CA, you will likely secure a position in any of the sectors, provided that you have the requisite qualifications and experience in the field.
- Chula Vista anticipates a 33.7% job growth over the next decade, slightly above the US average of 33.5%.
- As of 2023, Chula Vista’s unemployment rate is 4.60%, lower than the long-term average of 6.60%. This is a decrease from the previous year’s rate of 3.70%.
- The average salary in Chula Vista is around $70,511 per year or $34 per hour, varying by job title and industry.
- The median salary is approximately $22.96 per hour, translating to $918 weekly or $3,979 monthly. Salaries typically range from $34,172 (25th percentile) to $58,958 (75th percentile) annually.
What is the minimum wage in Chula Vista California?
As of January 1, 2024, the minimum wage in Chula Vista, California, is $16.00 per hour, which is the same as the state minimum wage
What are the top employers in Chula Vista, CA
- Sweetwater Union High School District
- Call Center Services International
- South Bay Community Services
- Coldwell Banker West
- Rohr, Inc.
- Maxell Pro AV
- Youngevity
- Highlight Networks Inc
- Mutsutech Ltd
- Pullen Ronald
Most typical job titles in Chula Vista, CA
- Retail Sales Associate
- Crew Member
- Sales Associate
- Customer Service Representative
- Registered Nurse
- Caregiver
- Cashier
- Medical Assistant
- Internship
- Volunteer
- Receptionist
Highest paying jobs in Chula Vista, CA
- Optometrist
- Construction
- RN (Registered Nurse)
- Veterinarian
- Mailroom Clerk
- Leasing Marketing Manager
- Accounts
Is Chula Vista safe?
Over the last five years, Chula Vista has witnessed an increase in violent crime and a decrease in property crime. The overall Chula Vista crime rate exceeds the national average, with 15 crimes per 1,000 residents.
The likelihood of becoming a victim of violent or property crime in Chula Vista is 1 in 65.
- The violent crime rate in Chula Vista is 3.17 per 1,000 residents.
- Chances of falling victim to violent crime range from 1 in 116 in southwest neighborhoods to 1 in 732 in the southeast.
- Common violent crimes reported include aggravated assault and robbery.
- Chula Vista’s property crime rate is 12.18 per 1,000 residents.
- The risk of property crime victimization is higher than that of violent crime.
- Assault rate: 229.9 per 100,000 residents.
- Murder rate: 2.9 per 100,000 residents.
- Rape rate: 11.9 per 100,000 residents.
- Robbery rate: 106.1 per 100,000 residents.
- Chula Vista’s crime rate is among the lowest nationally for its size, making it one of the safest places for its population.
- The crime rate in Chula Vista is lower than 34% of the state’s cities and towns of all sizes.
Safest neighborhoods in Chula Vista, CA
- Bonita Long Canyon
- Paseo Ranchero
- Otay Ranch
- Lynwood Hills
- Eastlake Greens
- East Lake
- Eastlake Trails
- Yosemite Dr
- Sunbow
- Fenton St
How fast can you commute in Chula Vista, CA?
Chula Vista’s one-way commute time varies, ranging from 28.7 to 30.9 minutes, surpassing the US average of 26.4 minutes. Notably, 11.4% of commuters face over an hour-long commute, as reported.
Here are the public transportation options available in Chula Vista, CA:
- San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS): MTS provides direct service to Chula Vista through the UC San Diego Blue Line Trolley, operating seven days a week.
- Chula Vista Transit System connects residents and tourists to attractions with ten bus routes and trolley lines. It links with the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System for broader connectivity.
- Bus Routes: Notable routes like 701, 704, 705, and 929 serve Chula Vista, connecting different parts of the city and critical locations.
- Trolley System: Part of MTS, the UC San Diego Blue Line Trolley has stops in Chula Vista, facilitating connections to San Diego.
- Bicycle Facilities: Chula Vista offers nearly 100 miles of dedicated bicycle facilities, including lanes and trails like the Otay Valley River Park.
- PRONTO App or Card: Riders can use the PRONTO app or card for convenient payment and access, with accessible transit for riders 18 & under using the Youth Opportunity Pass.
How is the weather in Chula Vista, CA?
Chula Vista has a semi-arid climate with Mediterranean characteristics.
- Warm season Lasts about 2.8 months, from July 10 to October 2, with an average daily high temperature above 75°F.
- Winter season: Lasts about 4.2 months, from November 29 to April 6, with an average daily high temperature below 67°F.
- Average annual rainfall in Chula Vista: 10 inches.
- Wetter season: Lasts about 4.7 months, from November 18 to April 7.
- February has the most wet days, averaging 5.0 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation.
- Chula Vista does not typically receive any snowfall.
- On average, Chula Vista has about 261-263 sunny days yearly.
- The hottest month is August, with an average high of 77°F and a low of 66°F.
- Coldest month: December, with an average low of 49°F and a high of 65°
- Spring and fall are the best times to visit California and Chula Vista.
Education system in Chula Vista, CA
- Chula Vista Senior High School is nationally ranked at #6,014 and holds the #916 spot within California.
- The overall educational ranking of Chula Vista as a city or the Chula Vista Elementary School District isn’t explicitly mentioned.
- Chula Vista Christian University has an annual tuition of $14,000.
- At Southwestern College, tuition fees for California residents are $1,342, while out-of-state students pay $9,490.
- The Chula Vista Elementary School District comprises 42 schools, serving 22,452 students, with a 22:1 student-teacher ratio.
- The Sweetwater Union High School District, serving Chula Vista, includes 33 schools and 37,060 students.
Best middle schools in Chula Vista, CA
- Rancho Del Rey Middle School
- Eastlake Middle School
- Alta Vista Academy
Best elementary schools in Chula Vista, CA
- Parkview Elementary
- Camarena (Enrique S.) Elementary
- Salt Creek Elementary
- Heritage Elementary
Best High Schools in Chula Vista, CA
- Eastlake High School
- Olympian High School
- Otay Ranch Senior High School
Best universities and colleges in Chula Vista, CA
- Southwestern College
- San Diego State University
- San Diego Mesa College
- UEI College – Chula Vista
- University of Redlands
What to do in Chula Vista, CA
The famous attractions and things to see in Chula Vista, CA, are:
- Discover wildlife at Living Coast Discovery Center, a zoo and aquarium hosting animal rehabilitation and educational events.
- Explore the Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, where U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams undergo training.
- Shop and dine at Otay Ranch Town Center, an open-air shopping destination with boutiques, restaurants, and a farmers’ market.
- Relax at Chula Vista Bayside Park, a beachfront area with walking trails, a fishing pier, stunning Coronado Bridge, and the San Diego skyline views.
- Splash into fun at Aquatica SeaWorld’s Water Park, featuring thrilling slides and a giant wave pool.
- Attend concerts at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatrsignificantmajor concert facility.
- Explore history at South Bay Salt Works, a historic site.
- Hike along Rice Canyon Trail, a moderate trail suitable for all skill levels.
- Enjoy the outdoors at Marina View Park, a scenic spot with a chance to spot local wildlife.
- Have family fun at Sesame Place San Diego Theme Park, with Sesame Street-themed rides and water attractions.
Best neighborhoods in Chula Vista, CA
The best places to live in Chula Vista, CA, concerning lower housing prices, living costs, availability of plentiful amenities, and safety are as follows:
- Eastlake
- Otay Ranch
- Rolling Hills Ranch
- Bonita
- North Chula Vista
- San Miguel Ranch
Pros and cons of living in Chula Vista, CA
Here is a comprehensive table of the pros and cons of living in Chula Vista, California:
Pros | Cons |
Great diversity | High cost of living |
Tremendous growth | Long commutes |
Excellent schools | Public safety challenges |
A multitude of housing options | Heavy traffic |
The marvelous atmosphere for family | Lackluster mass transit |
High livability scores | High income tax rate |
Ideal weather | Some areas have higher crime rates |
Close to San Diego | |
Rich cultural heritage and festivals | |
Active and nature-filled lifestyle | |
Well-maintained neighborhoods, parks, and recreational facilities | |
Lower cost of living compared to other parts of San Diego County |
Is Chula Vista a good place to live?
Chula Vista, California, is a great place to live, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, pleasant weather, outdoor activities, and diverse community. The city’s proximity to San Diego adds to its appeal, offering amenities like the San Diego Zoo. With excellent schools and community safety initiatives, Chula Vista provides a high quality of life. However, it’s important to note that the cost of living is higher than the national average, particularly in housing and transportation. Despite this, many find the city’s positives make it a worthwhile place to call home.
Conclusion
In summary, if you have decided to move to California, Chula Vista is an excellent place to live because of its rich nature, beaches, pleasant weather, and many job opportunities and leisure. This sun-kissed city is not going to disappoint you in any way. So, load your bags, book your tickets, and have a great move.
Photo Credit: Roman Eugeniusz, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons