Moving To Guides: Santa Ana, California
Nestled in the center of Orange County along the Santa Ana River is a city that’s home to over 334,000 residents.
Appropriately named Santa Ana, it has been the county seat since 1889.
It was discovered years before in 1769 by Don Gaspar de Portola, a Spanish expedition leader who christened the area Santa Ana in honor of Saint Anne.
Santa Ana was incorporated as a city in 1886, and today it spans 27.3 square miles.
If you’re considering relocating to Santa Ana, here are some things you may want to know:
Demographics
The median age of residents is 30.2 years, and over 54.7 percent have a bachelor’s degree or higher. In 2013, the estimated median household income was $47,914, and residents commonly work in industries such as manufacturing, food services, and construction.
Largest Employers
The largest employers within Santa Ana include the Alan B Whitson Company, Ascent Tooling Group, California Department of State Hospitals, and the City of Santa Ana.
Housing Market
There are 77,610 housing units in the city, and the median listing price is $549,000. According to Movoto, Santa Ana’s home resale inventories decreased by eleven percent in November 2016.
Neighborhoods
Santa Ana has several great neighborhoods from which you can choose, including:
Meredith Parkwood – This is one of the nicest neighborhoods, which means the homes prices are higher than some of the city’s other neighborhoods. Its crime index is 28 percent lower than Santa Ana’s average, and it has a Walk Score of 75. Residents enjoy a close proximity to schools, grocery stores, shops, and restaurants.
Downtown – The downtown area is a great place to call home for young adults who don’t have children. The Santa Anta Historic District has several well-preserved historic homes and other buildings, and nearby Birch Park is one of the places where residents can enjoy the outdoors.
French Court – The French Court neighborhood boasts a closeness to the interstate, making it convenient for residents to get around. There are several schools within its boundaries, and grocery stores and restaurants are nearby.
Education
Santa Ana Unified School District – The Santa Ana Unified School District is the largest district in Orange County and the seventh largest in the state. There are 38 elementary schools, nine intermediate schools, and nine high schools, and sixty percent of students are English learners. According to the district’s website, the most common languages spoken at home are Spanish, Vietnamese, and Khmer.
Higher Education – Residents who wish to further their education don’t have to go far as the city is home to several higher learning institutions. They include:
Santa Ana College
Career College of California
Trinity Law School
American Institute of American Massage
Santa Ana Beauty College
Restaurants
Dozens of restaurants call Santa Ana home such as:
Little Onion Mexican Restaurant – The Little Onion Mexican Restaurant is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. It was in 1972 that the Santa Ana location opened, and it offers great service and reasonable prices. Menu options include Shredded Chicken Burritos, Enchiladas de Camarones, and Tamales.
Crave – The owner of Crave believes in using simple, fresh ingredients to create the most satisfying and memorable dining experience. Diners enjoy a casual atmosphere and friendly service, as well as meals such as Creme Brulee French Toast, Chicken Melts, and BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches.
Claim Jumper – Open daily for lunch and dinner, Claim Jumper first opened in Los Almitos, CA, and today there are forty-three restaurants in nine states. The restaurant’s interior features natural rock, large fireplaces, and authentic log chairs, making for a cozy environment. Diners never leave hungry as the portions are large, and menu items include Fish Tacos, Hickory Barbecue Burgers, and Calzones.
When you’re ready to relocate to Santa Ana, please contact us. We can help you find the right movers to help you move into your new home.