A giant smiley face carved into the hillside greets commuters driving into Simi Valley; Happy Face Hill tells everyone who sees it that they're no longer in the hectic bustle of Los Angeles, that they can relax. Simi Valley rests in the lowland between the Santa Susana Mountains to the north and the Simi Hills to the south. It's just over 40 miles northwest of LA, making it popular with commuters looking for more space. The prices are also slightly lower than in nearby cities, such as Thousand Oaks. Beyond lower prices and suburban yard space, Simi Valley offers effortless access to outdoor activities. "The trails here are top-notch. Some are easy, some are more challenging, but they all have great views," says Anthony Angelini, tourism director for the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce. According to the Trust for Public Land, more than 60% of Simi Valley residents live within a 10-minute walk to one of the city's 42 parks or trailheads. Almost every neighborhood is arranged with its own greenspace, and many trailheads branch from residential streets into the hills around the city. Cyclists, walkers and runners can even travel on the Arroyo Simi Greenway, a tree-lined paved path running through the city. With an annual average temperature of around 65 degrees and over 270 sunny days, residents can enjoy these outdoor amenities pretty much year-round.
Residential areas in Simi Valley sit between mountains, offering scenic views and open space.
Simi Valley neighborhoods feature single-family homes with suburban charm.
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Easy access to parks and canyon trails
The city's neighborhoods were designed with outdoor space in mind, putting most residents within a few minutes of their nearest community park or trailhead. These vary from small playgrounds and pocket parks to large spaces like Rancho Simi Community Park, which has athletic fields, courts, a swimming pool and a small lake. Cyclists can ride on the Arroyo Simi Greenway, a paved multiuse, tree-lined path cutting through the city's south side.
The mountainous surroundings make hiking trails easy to access. Many trailheads begin in residential communities, like the Las Llajas Canyon Trail and Chumash Park Trail, which lead north into the Santa Susana Mountains from the city's northeast corner. Routes on the city's south side, like the Canyon View Trail, lead down into the valleys of the Simi Hills.
Locals enjoy riding their bikes with their pets along the Arroyo Simi Bike Path in Simi Valley.
Wood Ranch in Simi Valley boasts scenic hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
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More space for less outside of Los Angeles County
The median home price is just over $800,000, compared to just over $1 million 10 miles south in Thousand Oaks. Most homes sit on the city's grid streets but have a suburban appearance with midsize grassy lawns. Single-family Mediterranean-inspired and ranch-style homes make up the majority of options, starting around $800,000. Condos in the city can cost around $600,000. In the hills around the city, Mediterranean Revivals, midcentury modern designs and new builds with mountain views can range from $1 million to $4 million — these are often on a few acres of land.
On the edge of Wood Ranch in Simi Valley, interested homebuyers can find large sprawling estates.
Residential properties are larger in Simi Valley than in nearby Los Angeles.
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Town Center shopping and community events
Simi Valley is home to a few shopping plazas and malls offering a wide variety of retail and necessities. Simi Valley Town Center is where residents do most of their shopping. This large outdoor mall offers trendy outlets, restaurants and a movie theater. Grocery and departments stores like Trader Joe's and Target can be found within a few minutes of Town Center on state Route 118. More shopping and dining, both chain and locally owned, is on East Los Angeles Avenue, which cuts east-west through the entire city.
The whole community comes together for two big events: the Simi Valley Street Fair and Oktoberfest. The Simi Valley Street Fair is held twice a year, in the fall and late spring. "Oktoberfest is awesome, but Street Fair is by far our biggest event," says Angelini. "We shut down the streets around Simi Valley Town Center to make room for all the vendors and attractions." Fairgoers enjoy endless rows of food and craft vendors lining the streets, a beer and wine garden and live music. Oktoberfest occurs a few weeks before the fall Street Fair. "Our Oktoberfest is one of the biggest in the state," says Angelini. "It's all-you-can-drink beer for $50, so people go all out." The beer- and pretzel-fueled festivities occur at Rancho Tapo Park in late September. Folks dance to polka bands, eat and drink at communal tables and often dress to nines in Bavarian garb.
The Fall Simi Valley Street Fair offers food, vendors, and entertainment for all.
There are many shopping centers around Simi Valley that host local and national retailers.
The Apricot Festival in Simi Valley is a family event that occurs at Strathearn Historical Park.
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Commute on State Route 118 or by train
Simi Valley has city buses, but it's a primarily car-dependent city. Residents might work at industrial businesses on the city's west side or healthcare facilities like Adventist Health Simi Valley. Still, many commute on the 118. It runs east to west through the city, connecting drivers to destinations in Ventura County and Los Angeles County. Thousand Oaks is about a 10-mile drive south by taking the 118 west and heading down state Route 23. Commuters can merge onto Interstate 5 for a 40-mile drive southeast to downtown LA. The drive to LA usually takes about an hour, but it's normal to hit heavy traffic near the city center. The Simi Valley Amtrak Station, on the city's east side, offers an hour train ride to LA. Los Angeles International Airport is about 50 miles southeast.
Simi Valley offers convenient public transit and easy connectivity for commuters.
Happy Face Hill welcomes residents and tourists to Simi Valley.
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A-rated Simi Valley Unified School District
The city's public schools get high marks, with the Simi Valley Unified School District receiving an overall A rating from Niche. Niche also ranks it as the No. 4 best district in Ventura County. The district has 28 schools, all within the city, so most students have a short walk or ride to school. Santa Susana High is a standout among the district's multiple other A-rated schools. Ranked the No. 5 best high school in Ventura County, Santa Susana is a highly touted magnet school offering STEM programs and many other academic programs.
Santa Susana High School ranks among top-rated schools in Simi Valley.
Simi Valley High School serves over 2,000 students in Simi Valley, Ca.
Valley View Middle School, rated B+ on Niche, serves the Simi Valley community.
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The Reagan Presidential Library and spaces for the arts
Simi Valley is also the location of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The library’s complex sprawls over gardens and includes a hilltop with views of the ocean. "People come from all over the world to see Air Force One parked inside the museum," says Angelini. "We're used to hosting diplomats and government officials who come for events or to pay their respects at the former president and first lady's burial site."
The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, operated by the city manager's office, is the city’s hub of artistic programming. The center hosts over 350 events each year, ranging from musicals, concerts, craft fairs, art exhibits, business meetings and weddings. It has become such a community hub that in July of 2021, the city council adopted a five-year strategic plan dedicated to broadening the resources and outreach of the Cultural Arts Center.
The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center hosts over 350 events every year.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is one of the main landmarks in Simi Valley.
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High risk of fires, but not crime
There is a real risk of brush fires in the hills around Simi Valley. In the summer of 2024, the Sharp Fire burned 133 acres on the city's north side. It damaged around 60 homes and forced residents to evacuate. Residents should have an evacuation plan prepared for these potential disasters, and it's also important to mitigate the spread of fires by creating a defensible space. This involves removing flammable, overgrown vegetation from the perimeter of a property to cut off a fire's fuel supply.
On the other hand, crime is not much of a concern. According to FBI data, Simi Valley's violent crime rate is consistently well below the state and national rates. In 2023, Simi Valley had a rate of 43 offenses per 100,000 people, compared to the California rate of 103 per 100,000 people.
Written By
Ed Coombs
Photography Contributed By
Derrick Harvey
Video By
Jacob McAllister
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tami Jo Colburn,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Simi Valley, CA sell after 54 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Simi Valley, CA over the last 12 months is $825,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Located within the highly desirable gated Lake Park Village of the Wood Ranch Community in Simi Valley, directly across from the golf course, this top floor, light-filled residence offers a spacious and thoughtfully designed open floor plan surrounded by serene natural beauty. Abundant windows invite natural sunlight throughout, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in every room.The expansive
Discover your dream home in this stunning, bright, and impeccably clean unit! Move-in ready and freshly painted, this gem features a welcoming entry-level kitchen and spacious dining area. Step down into a generous living room with a cozy fireplace and large windows that flood the space with natural light. The bathroom offers double sinks for added convenience, and you'll love having an in-unit
This spacious single-story home is a true blank canvas ready for its next chapter. Offering 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 2180 square feet of light-filled living space the open flowing layout creates an inviting sense of ease and possibility. Large windows bring in abundant natural light and frame views of the backyard giving the home a bright welcoming feel throughout.The connected
Introducing this stunning two-story Montara home, where spacious living meets modern elegance! With 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms spread across over 2,000 sq. ft., this residence offers a fabulous layout perfect for both comfort and style. Beautiful new carpet being installed 2/6/2026 As you step inside, you're greeted by a warm and inviting living room, accentuated by a beautifully refaced custom
Located on a quiet cul-de-sac in the heart of West Simi Valley, this beautifully updated single-story home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and 1800 sq ft of living space. The light-filled formal living and dining rooms feature vaulted ceilings and a cozy fireplace, while the remodeled kitchen with granite countertops open to a comfortable family room. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet,
Beautifully appointed residence in the Windstone community, at Big Sky. Exceptional curb appeal and timeless design. Offering 4 bedrooms, with a 5th bedroom (no closet), and 4.5 bathrooms, this home provides comfort, functionality, and elegance.The welcoming entry features custom tile flooring and opens to a highly desirable floor plan. A downstairs bedroom with a private bath provides ideal
Welcome to this beautifully remodeled 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offering modern upgrades, quality finishes, and excellent functionality. The inviting front yard features low-maintenance turf and concrete stairs leading to a welcoming entry and covered patio. Inside, the home showcases real hickory hardwood flooring in the main living areas, laminate wood-like flooring in the bedrooms, and tile
Discover a truly unique end unit surrounded by lush greenery, providing both privacy and serenity. Nestled on the desirable west side of Simi Valley, this lovely home is just a stone's throw away from the community pool, making it perfect for those sunny California days!Step inside to find vaulted ceilings that create an open and airy ambiance. A sliding door conveniently opens into a versatile
Welcome to this impressive single-story residence nestled in the sought-after Bridlepath area of Simi Valley. This exceptional property, located on a tranquil cul-de-sac, boasts a rare flat lot covering half an acre, perfect for those seeking ample space and privacy.This home is not just aesthetically pleasing; it has been thoughtfully updated. The entire house has been re-piped, and the
Located in the highly sought-after gated community of Long Canyon, this rarely available model sits on a quiet cul-de-sac adjacent to a scenic greenbelt and offers beautiful park and hillside views. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including community pools, three recreation rooms, and a fully equipped gym, all included through the HOA.This spacious five-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath
Secluded and private! Welcome to 6143 Wisteria Street, a well-maintained two-story single-family residence located in the desirable Santa Susana Knolls community of East Simi Valley. This home offers 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with 1,820 sq ft of living space situated with privacy.The functional floor plan features all bedrooms upstairs, including a spacious primary suite with a walk-in
Rarely seen on the market and will go fast. Don't let this limited opportunity pass you by. Experience the allure of this tastefully updated, single-story Duplex. Spanning an impressive 1211 sq ft, this delightful 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home offers ample space for comfort and relaxation. The open floor plan is graced with stylish laminate flooring and newer dual-pane windows, creating a
Tastefully remodeled and tucked away on a quiet, private street in desirable West Simi Valley, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers comfort, functionality, and exceptional versatility. The interior has been freshly painted and features brand new laminate flooring throughout most of the home, creating a clean, modern feel. The main bathroom has been fully remodeled with a new shower, vanity,
No expense has been spared. There is immaculate pride of ownership in this 3 bedroom 2 bath open concept home. The primary bedroom has been expanded and the additional 329 sqft ''Lanai'' room really makes the home feel big. Recessed lighting in living room brightens up this massive space and adds to the appeal of the river rock fireplace. Gorgeous newer wood look Rigid Core Vinyl flooring ties
Perfect Home. 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 baths including a primary suite with an en-suite bath. Large family room and large dining room, both just off the kitchen. Good amount of cabinets and counter space. Direct access 2 car garage with indoor laundry area. The garage is a dream and has a unique special feature, a rear single car garage door that open directly into an additional garage / storage
Upstairs 2-bedroom, 1-bath. Step into the light filled living room and dining area. Galley style kitchen. Bathroom features a single vanity and shower/tub combo. 2 spacious bedrooms both with plenty of closet space. Features a bright, functional layout and a shared 2-car garage with storage. Central AC/heat. Community swimming pool, basketball court and large park nearby. Well-maintained and
Welcome to Dream Apartments, a stunning new residential community in the heart of Simi Valley, where modern elegance meets everyday comfort. This beautifully designed 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment offers a spacious open floor plan, high-end finishes, and all the conveniences of contemporary living. Brand-new stainless-steel appliances, gleaming counter tops, and white cabinets makes this kitchen a
Allan Mann
Time Realty Property Management
(805) 900-3835
$3,200 per month
2 Beds
2.5 Baths
1,378 Sq Ft
Welcome to this beautifully maintained two-story townhouse in West Simi Valley, offering comfort, style, and an ideal location within the community. This move-in ready home features two spacious master suites, making it perfect for flexible living arrangements. Living area with wood-like flooring, recessed lighting, and a cozy fireplace, creating the perfect space to relax or entertain. The tiled
Single story 3 bedroom 2 bath home exclusive Mountain Valley Racket Club neighborhood in the center of Simi Valley. Spacious floor plan with a large living room, spacious formal dining room which also makes a great work at home space, remodeled kitchen with stainless steels appliances; large family room with slider access to the rear yard. Spacious primary suite with attached 3/4 bath. 2
Welcome to this beautifully maintained, highly sought-after townhouse. This light-filled home features an open-concept floor plan where the kitchen seamlessly opens to the dining and living areas, complete with a cozy gas fireplace—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen boasts granite countertops, maple cabinetry, and generous prep space. The dining area opens
Discover luxurious apartments for rent, offering one, two, and three-bedroom floor plans tailored to a top-quality lifestyle. Gourmet kitchens feature quartz countertops and stainless steel energy-efficient appliances. Enjoy the added elegance of a balcony or patio to appreciate the luxurious surroundings of this urban oasis.The Landing at Arroyo apartments also extends the finest amenities
WELCOME TO YOUR NEW DREAM HOME! First time available following an extensive top-to-bottom remodel, this expansive residence has been thoughtfully upgraded with quality finishes and modern improvements throughout. The home showcases a long list of recent enhancements including a brand-new roof, updated plumbing systems, new appliances, upgraded flooring throughout, and beautifully redesigned
Welcome to gorgeous Simi Valley, where you have your selection between our one or two-bedroom apartments at IMT Wood Ranch. Comfort and convenience are folded into every home experience with apartment amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, Nest thermostats and in-home washers & dryers. Enjoy community amenities with luxury in mind like our
Welcome to this beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom end-unit condo located in the desirable Paseo Del Sol gated community in Simi Valley. This light-filled home features all living areas upstairs, providing privacy and a spacious, open layout. The home showcases beautiful wood flooring and an updated kitchen with ample cabinetry and functional workspace. The comfortable living area opens to two
Location. Lifestyle. Amenities. These are a few of the things that set Shadow Ridge Apartment Homes apart. Weve designed our interiors to capture and reveal your unique personal style, and weve tailored our community amenities to suit your lifestyle and spark joy in everything you do. This one-of-a-kind community has it all the finishes you expect, the details you deserve, and the
Amazing view home with 3 bedroom/2.5 baths located in the exclusive townhouse gated community of Cantrice Court near the top of Wood Ranch. Some of the best views in Wood Ranch! Stunning architectural design with vaulted ceilings and ample windows to view your idyllic surroundings. Recently remodeled by licensed contractors with thousands spent on new professional stainless kitchen appliances
Graced with breathtaking views of the Santa Susana Mountain range, you’ll love coming home to the Spanish-influenced architecture and manicured grounds of Hidden Valley apartments in Simi Valley, CA.Choose from 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom floor plans to find the one that’s right for you. Each apartment home for rent features a fully equipped kitchen, large closets, air conditioning, and a full-size,
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