On the banks of the Santa Clara River in Ventura County, Santa Paula is a Southern California city close to the Pacific Ocean, with views of the Topatopa Mountain Range to the north. The city’s population has been slowly increasing and is currently home to roughly 31,700 residents.
In the mid-1800s, the area was largely comprised of farmland and orchards, while the Union Oil Company operated here in the late 19th century. The city was also California’s film industry hot spot before the glory days of Hollywood, and in the early 1900s was hailed as the “Queen of the Silver Screen.”
Today, Santa Paula goes by another nickname, the “Citrus Capital of the World,” with thousands of acres of citrus orchards in the surrounding fields and hillsides. “Us locals refer to the city as a great secret in southern California,” says Kay Wilson-Bolton, a local Realtor with Century 21 Everest and former Santa Paula Mayor. “The farmlands bring a quiet atmosphere to the area, and we have a lot of beautiful historic architecture near downtown.”
Agriculture remains Santa Paula’s prominent industry as a major producer of oranges, lemons and avocados. Notable employers include Limoneira and Calavo Growers.
Santa Paula is home to many local farms such as Limoneria.
Citrus farms fill the landscape in Santa Paula.
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Mediterranean architecture and historic Victorians near downtown Santa Paula
Mediterranean architecture lines the streets with palm and citrus trees dotting many front yards. Tile roofing, archways and stucco exteriors are prominent features of the city’s architectural scene. Houses range from manufactured builds and ranch-style homes to expansive hillside estates. “Close to downtown, there are Victorians and craftsman homes that date back to the late 19th and early 20th century,” says Wilson-Bolton. “Owners can’t make changes to the exteriors without getting it approved by the historic society. We place a lot of value on preserving our historic architecture.”
The average home price in Santa Paula is $791,000 in 2025, which is an 11% increase compared to the previous 12 months. Prices are well above the national average but lower compared to nearby cities like Ventura, Ojai and Santa Clarita.
Santa Paula has an array of home styles including Mediteranean.
New housing develoments are popping up on the outskirts of Santa Paula.
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Authentic Mexican food and dozens of local shops on Main Street
Santa Paula has over 50 restaurants and dozens of locally owned shops. Main Street serves as the city’s shopping and dining hub and is lined with bars, antique shops, markets and more. The area is known for providing authentic Mexican cuisine, with around 20 taquerias and eateries across town. On the west side of the city, Santa Paula Center has a grocery store, a movie theater and a handful of chain restaurants.
Downtown Santa Paula has many great food and shopping options for locals.
Find authentic Mexican food all throughout Santa Paula.
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Career academies at Santa Paula High School
The Santa Paula Unified School District earns a C-plus overall grade from Niche. The district is divided among five elementary schools, while most students in the city may attend the same middle and high schools. Isbell Middle School, home of the Condors, receives a C-minus grade and has a wide array of elective course offerings, including automation and robotics, introduction to patient care and nutrition and culinary arts. The C-plus-rated Santa Paula High School has five career education academies for students to focus their coursework to align with topics like agriscience, human services and engineering.
Santa Paula High school is central to the community.
Isbell Middle School is walking distance to many homes in Santa Paula.
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A growing park system and popular hiking trails
While much of the land surrounding Santa Paula is dedicated to agriculture, the city maintains numerous public parks. There are currently 11 parks in the city, many with playgrounds, sports facilities and picnic areas. As of 2023, the Santa Paula Creek Sports Park doubles the city's green space, some areas are still under construction, but it will ultimately have a community garden, sports facilities and an amphitheater.
There are also numerous hiking areas within a short drive of downtown, including the Santa Paula Canyon Trail, which leads to scenic waterfalls and popular swimming spots. For surfing and ocean-front activities, residents are just 15 miles from Ventura Beach.
Santa Paula Creek Sports Park is new development to the community.
Santa Paula has many parks with great hiking trails.
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Travel through Santa Paula with the Valley Express Transit Service
California state Route 126 runs through the south side of the city, around 16 miles west to Ventura or roughly 35 miles east to Santa Clarita. Public transportation throughout Santa Paula is operated by Valley Express Transit Service, with three bus routes throughout the city. The Santa Paula Airport is privately owned and lies just south of SR-126. Additionally, the Burbank Airport is about 52 miles southeast.
Crime statistics for Santa Paula are not readily available.
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Amazing View Lot in Santa Paula. Ocean View, Island View, Mountain View, City View. Large buildable flat area, all neighbors are below you, this lot is King of the Hill. Utilities are present on site. Public water and sewerCall for additional information. Jack and Bonnie Stevenson 805-258-3594
The room has stunning views of the city and magnificent mountains. Enjoy the convenience of access to the green kitchen + new washer and dryer. Step outside to the beautiful backyard and soak in the breathtaking views. The room also includes a wide closet, providing ample storage space. Experience the perfect balance of privacy and community in this tranquil haven, where you can unwind and
Super Clean, UPDATED, Like New! Two bedrooms and one bathroom, located upstairs with a balcony. Updated kitchen with new cabinets and countertops and more. Mountain views from your patio, and close to schools and shopping. Ready now to rent!Shared laundry room on site, and includes a private ONE CAR GARAGE and ONE parking space.BONUS **Water and trash included in the rent.
Private Room with mountain views for rent. Shared bathroom. Peaceful, safe, and beautiful home. Access to community pool, gym, and parks. Use of homes common areas and light cooking. Room is for a single female (no couples). Working professional with reliable income. No smoking, drug use, parties, or pets. I live in home with one other housemate. We are clean, friendly and respectful and
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Average Home Value
Source: Public RecordsDisclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
