Hollister is an agriculturally focused city in a valley in the rolling foothills of Central California’s San Benito County. Although the city’s name may evoke images of a well-known national clothing brand, Hollister has no association with the retailer. Instead, the city derives its moniker from Colonel W.W. Hollister, who founded the community in 1868. Several historic churches and properties here date back to the late 19th century and mostly center around Hollister’s downtown area, which has a large selection of restaurants, boutiques and small businesses. The farther from the city’s bustling center, the more ranches, pastures and farms start to crop up. “The way I describe Hollister to people is that it’s a great town to grow up in, and it’s really got that small town and close community feeling to it,” says Zoe O’Connor, a Hollister native and Realtor with Choice Homes & Land. “Relatively speaking, it’s also pretty close to the Bay Area, to all the tech jobs and everything in Santa Clara County.” As of the 2020 United States census, Hollister is home to a population of more than 40,000.
Explore scenic valleys and vineyards around Hollister, a gem of San Benito County.
Hollister is known for its fertile fields and fresh produce markets.
Discover serene horse farms in the heart of Hollister.
Vineyards surround a stunning property in Hollister, California.
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A blend of modern and midcentury homes
Homebuyers can find a large mix of newer and older residential properties throughout Hollister. Scattered around San Benito Street and downtown are midcentury bungalows and ranch-style dwellings blending Craftsman, Victorian and Spanish-influenced architecture; these older homes typically range between $600,000 and $900,000. Hollister’s eastern and southern suburban neighborhoods offer 21st-century modern contemporary homes with Mediterranean and Spanish Revival architectural builds. These newer single-family properties cost between approximately $750,000 and $950,000 and are found mainly in planned residential communities characterized by quiet tree-lined streets and cul-de-sacs. Apartment buildings and townhouse communities can be found throughout the city, with units that range between $350,000 and $650,000. Hollister’s outskirts are dotted with million-dollar ranches and farmhouses on multi-acre properties.
Discover contemporary luxury in Hollister’s stunning 21st-century home.
Hollister's Victorian charm shines through intricate woodwork and steep gables.
Charming ranch-style home in Hollister offers rustic comfort and space.
Sleek Mediterranean design meets modern elegance in Hollister.
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Working in and around Hollister
“Within the town, the jobs that people work are often agriculturally focused, but Hollister is also considered a bedroom community for the Bay Area, so we’ve also got a lot of commuters working in Silicon Valley,” O’Connor says. Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital is one of the largest employers within Hollister and offers 24-hour basic emergency care and a dozen other specialty healthcare services. Hollister is also home to several other major employers that draw in jobseekers across San Benito County, including Nob Hill Foods, Denise & Filice Packing Company, San Benito Foods and big box stores like Target. Globally recognized tech companies like Google and Apple are headquartered in Silicon Valley, approximately 60 miles north of Hollister. “Depending on traffic, it can take anywhere from an hour to an hour and a half to get up there; there isn’t a lot of public transit here, so people mostly drive,” O’Connor says.
Hollister’s Hazel Hawkins Hospital is a major employer and healthcare provider.
Hollister’s charm and Google’s tech opportunities are just an hour apart.
Hollister's economy thrives on agriculture-focused jobs and farming expertise.
San Benito Foods powers Hollister’s economy with key local employment opportunities.
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Surrounding mountain vistas and national forests
Hollister’s Parks and Recreation Department oversees the maintenance and operation of 29 public parks, sporting complexes and community centers. Vista Park Hill is an ample outdoor space near the city’s center that offers unobstructed views of the downtown area. The park is home to several athletic fields and picnic amenities, as well as a community garden and the Growing Hearts Garden Center. Brigantino Park is near Hollister’s western outskirts and has a mile-long gravel walking trail looping around the park. Approximately 30 miles south is Pinnacles National Park, a massive outdoor area where visitors can hike through canyons and forests, observe wildlife or go camping. The park was naturally formed 23 years ago by the eruption of several volcanoes, which created a rare landscape full of talus caves and jagged stone walls popular among rock climbers.
For a 24-hour recreation facility, Hollister residents can head to Rovella’s Athletic Club, which houses an indoor fitness center, swimming pools and exercise classes. San Juan Oaks Golf Club is 5 miles from the city and has an 18-hole course, a 15-acre practice facility and three upscale dining options. The San Benito County Free Library is in the downtown district and offers a range of resources and activities for the community, including public computers, weekly storytime events for children and reading programs for all ages.
Discover scenic strolls at Brigantino Park on Hollister's quiet western edge.
Making memories that soar at Hollister’s Vista Park Hill.
Rally on Dunne Park's tennis courts for an active day in Hollister.
San Juan Oaks Golf Club offers a serene 18-hole course near Hollister.
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Students attend Hollister School District
Hollister School District receives an overall C rating from Niche and serves all kindergarten through eighth-grade students living within city limits Within the Hollister School District are seven elementary schools – all of which offer preschool programs – as well as six middle schools. Hollister Dual Language Academy teaches students in preschool through eighth grade to be bilingual and develop proficiency in both English and Spanish.
Hollister High School, which is part of a different school district, serves approximately 3,400 students in grades nine through 12 and earns an overall 6/10 rating from GreatSchools. In 2023, the high school received a California Green Ribbon recognition for being a climate-forward institution. “Hollister High School is humongous – it kind of feels like being on a college campus,” O’Connor says. “The high school actually used to be called the San Benito High, but they recently switched it to Hollister High School.”
Cerra Vista School in Hollister fosters a love for learning in every student.
Achieve more at Hollister High School with top-tier programs and dedicated teachers.
Marguerite Maze Middle School in Hollister fosters a vibrant learning community.
San Benito High School in Hollister offers diverse programs for all students.
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Downtown district lines San Benito Street
Hollister’s historic downtown district is located along San Benito Street. According to the Hollister Downtown Association, this area is home to more than 200 businesses, dining options and retail shops. Local restaurants mostly offer a blend of Mexican and American cuisine; residents can also find a handful of brunch spots and fast food joints. From mid-April to mid-October, the San Benito Health Foundation sponsors a weekly Farmers’ Market every Wednesday afternoon. “Some main touch points in the downtown area would be Running Rooster, which is a popular local restaurant, and the new Epicenter community building,” she says. As part of Hollister's Project Revitalize, the Epicenter opened its doors in 2022 as an event venue and gathering space for San Benito County nonprofit organizations.
South of the downtown district along Airline Highway is the Plaza San Benito shopping mall, home to a Target and two grocery stores: Nob Hill Foods and Safeway. Across the street from Plaza San Benito is Ace Hardware, Rite Aid and Goodwill of Silicon Valley.
According to CrimeGrade, Hollister experiences low crime rates and is safer than 81% of other U.S. cities. The downtown area and north sides of the city experience the highest crime rates, of which the vast majority are property-related crimes. Vehicle thefts are the most common type of crime, with vandalism following in a close second; however, both rates are still considered low compared to national averages. The Hollister Police Department organizes and provides several safety resources for the community, including neighborhood watch programs, home security guidelines and a Social Media Monitoring/Safety guide for parents and social media users.
Downtown Hollister brims with cozy cafés, boutiques, and friendly faces.
Target offers residents need in Hollister South Central.
A classic car draws attention in iconic downtown Hollister, California.
La Catrina is a local favorite in Downtown Hollister.
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Getting around San Benito County
California State Route 25 runs through Hollister and connects with U.S. Route 101 near Gilroy, which travels north to San Jose and Silicon Valley. Route 101’s southern corridor leads to Salinas, located 25 miles away. Hollister residents can also access the nearby San Benito Route 152 to travel east and merge onto Interstate 5, a massive highway that extends the length of the West Coast and runs through major cities such as Los Angeles, Sacramento, Portland and Seattle.
Limited local bus services within Hollister are operated by San Benito County Express, which also provides regional routes to nearby San Juan Bautista and Gilroy. In Gilroy, commuters can access Caltrain stations that operate rail lines up to the Bay Area. Hollister Municipal Airport is the only airfield within the city and serves as a general aviation facility. For flights to metropolitan areas along the West Coast, locals can head to the Monterey Regional Airport, located approximately 50 miles away. Dozens of direct domestic and international flights fly in and out of the San Jose Mineta International Airport, about 50 miles north in San Jose.
SR 25 in Hollister links to Silicon Valley via U.S. Route 101.
Close to Hollister, Gilroy’s Caltrain connects locals to the Bay Area.
Hop on San Benito County Express for Hollister’s convenient local bus routes.
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High risk of earthquakes and wildfires
Hollister experiences warm, arid summers with high temperatures and elevated UV Index scores. Balmy winters bring cool temperatures and heavy rainfall. Monthly average rainfall plummets during the spring and summer; in June and July, this area hardly sees any showers.
Although Hollister doesn’t experience the same flooding risk as nearby coastal and Bay Area communities, this area is prone to wildfires because of the surrounding natural landscape and dry, hot conditions. The closer a property is to the foothills and forests, the more at-risk they are. To combat potential wildfire damage, the Hollister Fire Department established weed abatement programs and regularly inspects commercial and residential buildings to ensure they meet safety standards and comply with fire-resistant building requirements.
Hollister is one of three California communities to be dubbed the “Earthquake Capital of the World” because of its location on top of the Calaveras Fault, a branch of the larger San Andreas Fault system. Small earthquakes are detected almost daily in this area, but most are of smaller magnitudes and go unnoticed by residents. Throughout the years, the region had several moderate earthquakes below 5.5 magnitudes. The last significant quake that affected the city was the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, recorded at a 6.9 magnitude. Since Hollister falls within a seismic fault zone, the city complies with the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act by regulating and limiting construction to adhere to safety standards.
Hollister Fire Department: Serving the community with dedication and bravery.
Expect plenty of sunshine in Hollister's arid, high-temperature summer months.
Modern homes in Hollister showcase sleek designs from an aerial perspective.
Expansive Hollister ranches blend rural charm with serene open landscapes.
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Written By
Hayley Simms
Photography Contributed By
Elie Karam
Video By
Daniel Quattro
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Michael Mendoza,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Hollister, CA sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Hollister, CA over the last 12 months is $749,000, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this custom-built Ridgemark Golf & Country Club home offering timeless design, generous living space, and beautifully maintained grounds with a sparkling pool and spa perfect for everyday living and entertaining. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features a thoughtful floor plan with formal living and dining rooms, a comfortable family room that opens to the kitchen and game
Stunning views of the San Juan Bautista Valley highlight this spacious 4-bedroom, 3- bath home in Hollister, offering approximately 2,870 sq ft of comfortable living space. The functional floor plan features a kitchen that opens to the inviting family room, creating a warm gathering space, along with a formal dining room ideal for hosting holidays and special occasions. Interior features include
Welcome to Promontory at Ridgemark, a gated community. This spacious two-story, south-facing home offers 3,249 square feet of living space on a 12,235 sq. ft lot. This home includes a massive primary bedroom suite with a balcony/sitting area offering mountain views. The 3 additional bedrooms include a first-floor junior bedroom suite. The gourmet kitchen boasts tons of custom cabinets and quartz
Welcome to this custom-built Ridgemark Golf & Country Club home offering timeless design, generous living space, and beautifully maintained grounds with a sparkling pool and spa perfect for everyday living and entertaining. This spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence features a thoughtful floor plan with formal living and dining rooms, a comfortable family room that opens to the kitchen and game
Discover this custom-built home in the desirable Las Brisas neighborhood, ideally located just one block from the park. This custom-designed floor plan rich in character, complemented by spacious living areas and vaulted living room ceiling, offers three spacious bedrooms and two and a half baths, with a comfortable primary suite on the main level. Enjoy a private outdoor deck just off the
Stunning views of the San Juan Bautista Valley highlight this spacious 4-bedroom, 3- bath home in Hollister, offering approximately 2,870 sq ft of comfortable living space. The functional floor plan features a kitchen that opens to the inviting family room, creating a warm gathering space, along with a formal dining room ideal for hosting holidays and special occasions. Interior features include
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home nestled in the charming city of Hollister. With 2,766 square feet of living space, this home offers a comfortable setting for family life and entertaining. The kitchen is a chef's delight, featuring granite countertops, a gas cooktop, an island with a sink, a built-in pantry, and modern appliances, including a dishwasher and microwave. The
Welcome to Promontory at Ridgemark, a gated community. This spacious two-story, south-facing home offers 3,249 square feet of living space on a 12,235 sq. ft lot. This home includes a massive primary bedroom suite with a balcony/sitting area offering mountain views. The 3 additional bedrooms include a first-floor junior bedroom suite. The gourmet kitchen boasts tons of custom cabinets and quartz
A Timeless Investment: Land! Whether you're an experienced farmer or dream of starting your agricultural venture, this property offers endless possibilities. With nearly 43 acres of fertile, farmable organic soil year-round, a reliable water source from the productive agricultural well owned by the property, and the additional San Felipe irrigation blue valve, this land is a beautiful canvas for
Stunning Views and Prime Location. We are pleased to offer a fantastic property with tentative map approval for three lots, sized at 2.82, 1.02, and 1.13 acres. The property boasts a new well installation and is conveniently close to town. This is a perfect opportunity to bring your imagination and make the most of this prime location. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!
55+ Community , Single Story Design, Large Kitchen with Built-In Appliances, Spacious Great Room, Covered Patio, Office/ Den, Spacious Primary Bedroom with Walk-In Closet, Optional 4 Foot Garage Extension, Optional Extended Patio, Optional 15' Multi-Slide Door at Dining Area, Optional Fireplace at Great Room, 10' Ceilings, This plan is modeled Here & Polo Club, Ocala, Valor, Verterra & Sunstone,
55+ Community, Single Story Design, Large Great Room, Large Kitchen with Island, Covered Patio, 9' Ceilings, Spacious Primary Bedroom with Walk-In Closet, Den, Large Laundry Room with Optional Sink, Optional Extended Covered Patio, Optional Multi-Slide Door at Great Room, This plan is modeled at Sunstone, *Virtual Home Tour & Photos are of the Model Home, DesignJoy- Our Curated Package Program;/
The Ultimate Silicon Valley Escape: Luxury Fairway Living Live the ultimate golf course lifestyle in this turnkey, 2,745 sq. ft. sanctuary. Located in gated Ridgemark, this beautifully renovated 4BD/3BA masterpiece features a seamless floorplan with exposed beams, fireplaces, stacked-stone accents, and designer finishes throughout the property. Step outside to a resort-style backyard boasting an
Smart Value. Real Savings. Modern Living in Hollister. Price Adjustment $832,500. Welcome to 2111 Rosewood Dr. Built in 2022 - a single-level home on a premium lot offering space, style, & cost-saving advantages. A must-see for buyers seeking lifestyle & financial efficiency. Buyer incentive: Lender credit of up to 1% for qualified buyers working with a preferred lender helping reduce costs &
* Kitchen pantry * Den * Large walk-in closet at primary bath * Stainless steel appliances with 2-yr. warranty * Dedicated laundry area * 40-amp. electric vehicle charging station pre-wiring * Solar energy system * Spacious family room * WaterSense labeled faucets * Smart thermostat * WaterSense labeled faucets * ENERGY STAR certified home * Mountain views * Convenient to downtown * Short drive
Situated within the well sought out Hollister community, The Apartments at Santana Ranch welcome you home with newly built one- and two- bedroom units. Whether you’re enjoying some solitude in your unit or feeling a sense of community at the outdoor BBQ area, fitness center, or walking trails, you’re sure to feel right at home. Each unit offers modern finishes, a full-size washer and dryer,
FOR RENT, FULLY REMODELED MOBILE HOME IN HOLLISTER AT THE MISSION OAKS PARK. THE FOLLOWING ARE ALL NEW: ROOF, KITCHEN AND APPLIANCES, BOTH BATHS REMODELED, PAINT INSIDE AND OUTSIDE, LAMINATE FLOORING, WINDOW BLINDS, AC UNIT AS WELL AS WATER MAIN FILTER. DON'T HESITATE ON THIS PROPERTY. SHOWINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
** We do not accept Zillow applications, apply on OUR website hollisterrentals. com **This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Located just minutes from downtown, it provides easy access to shopping, dining, and an effortless commute. A spacious backyard offers plenty of room for outdoor enjoyment, while the shed provides extra storage for
**We do NOT accept Zillow applications, apply on OUR website **Well-maintained home in a quiet Hollister neighborhood featuring a bright, open layout and spacious living areas. Enjoy a private backyard, attached garage, and convenient access to schools, shopping, and commuter routes. Comfortable living in a peaceful location. Available soon!No record of actual square footage,
$3,850 per month
Expansive 3,600 Sq Ft Home on 10,000 Sq Ft Lot - Coming soon!
**We do NOT accept Zillow applications, apply on OUR website **Well-maintained 3 bed, 3 bath home offering 3,600 sq ft of living space on a spacious 10,000 sq ft lot. Features a bright, functional layout with expansive living areas, a well-equipped kitchen, and generously sized bedrooms.Enjoy a large private outdoor space perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Conveniently located
631 Clearview DrHollister, CA 950233 Bedroom, 2 BathRent: $3,300Security Deposit: $3,300Utility Info: Tenant Pays All UtilitiesPet Info: No Pets. Every applicant is required to complete the pet screening.Introducing a charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home in the desirable location of Hollister, CA. This newly remodeled house boasts low maintenance
Pivetti Property ManagementPlease go to pivetti company dot com to apply. Zillow applications are not accepted. Thank you for your interest!Located in Hollister, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 1,900 square feet of living space and a practical layout for daily life. A fireplace provides a focal point in the living area, while an indoor laundry room adds convenience. The large
1490 Gabilan Dr.#2Hollister, CA 950231 Bedroom, 1 BathroomRent: $1,900Security Deposit: $1,900Utility Info: Tenant Pays PG&E, Water/Sewer/Trash IncludedPet Info: No Pets. Every applicant is required to complete the pet screening.Welcome to our charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom apartment located in the heart of Hollister, CA. This cozy unit features an attached
Historic Victorian 5 Bed/ 5 Bath Home in Hollister for RENT!Built in 1871, and lovingly maintained preserving its original character, charm, and excellent craftsmanship, with added modern amenities make this a true dream home. Mature landscaping, gardens, storage, fenced yard, covered front & side porch. Detached 2 car garage. Please see photos and floor plans, and contact us for more
821 Line St.Apt. CHollister, CA 950232 Bedroom, 1 BathRent: $2,000Security Deposit: $2,000Water/Sewer/Trash IncludedTenant Pays PG&E No Pets. Every applicant is required to complete the pet screeningNo Laundry onsiteRequirements:-Every adult 18+ MUST apply-Combined income must be 3x rent-One adult must have 660 credit score-Other
This charming 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is in the desirable area of Hollister, CA. The newly built house features an open kitchen concept with a center island, a new gas stove, unique LVT flooring, and AC for your convenience. Enjoy a small side-fenced yard in those summer days. Parking is curbside parking only. The property offers a peaceful and private setting, perfect for those looking for a
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