What’s it Like to Live in Watsonville, CA? 

What’s it Like to Live in Watsonville, CA? 

Time Stamp: April 7, 2023 12:23 PM
Source Node: 2571527

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FastExpert partner and highly-recommended real estate agent, Megan Kilmer shares her insight on what it’s like to live in Watsonville, CA.  

I am delighted to share with you some insights about life in Watsonville, CA.

Watsonville is the southernmost city in Santa Cruz County, California. With a population of approximately 54,000 people, Watsonville is a thriving community that boasts a unique mix of agriculture, industry, and culture.

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Where is Watsonville, CA?

Nestled between the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Watsonville is surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Enjoy the outdoors by taking a bike ride on the Slough Path or a picnic to Sunset Beach. You are also a short drive from the popular tourist destinations of Santa Cruz and Monterey. Watsonville is perfect for those who want to enjoy the best of both worlds.

What is the community like in Watsonville, CA?

Watsonville has a strong sense of community.

The city is home to a diverse population, and residents take pride in their city and their neighborhoods. The city also offers a wide range of community events and activities throughout the year, including Friday farmers markets in the city square, concerts, and cultural festivals.

What is there to do in Watsonville, CA?

Outdoor activities 

Take advantage of the abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. The city is surrounded by miles of beautiful coastline, making it an ideal location for surfing, kayaking, and other water sports.

Watsonville is also home to several parks and nature preserves, including Ramsay Park, Pinto Lake Park, and the Watsonville Wetlands where you can go wild with biking, hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching.

Food and Fun 

Watsonville is up-and-coming with local flavor. A local favorite activity is touring the craft beer circuit. Fruition Brewing, Beer Mule, and an outdoor dining area at Staff of Life Market are all popular gathering places. Each has a large selection of premium beers and wines from locals and around the globe.

What about a weekend getaway?

Watsonville is equidistant from Monterey and Santa Cruz making a vacation more like a stay-cation!

Check out the Santa Cruz Boardwalk or the more low-key boardwalk/dune trail at Asilomar Beach in Pacific Grove.

Or go on a whale-watching tour in Monterey Bay, which is known to be a great place to view humpback and gray whales as they migrate.

Craving a relaxing spa-like treatment? We got you! Costanoa up Highway 1 boasts a choose-your-own-adventure style of both rustic and luxury experiences with rolling hills, secluded beaches, and stays in their beach bungalows or a luxury suite. Spa experiences include deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, and more. The resort is the definition of being pampered. 

For an atmosphere of romance, comfort, and relaxation, travel South of Watsonville to Ventana in Big Sur.

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What’s the job market like in Watsonville? 

Agriculture is the main commodity in Watsonville, with historic farms like Martinelli’s Apple Orchards, and Driscoll’s. These large companies provide a strong job market for the community of Watsonville. In addition, it grants amazing access to fresh, local foods.

The other main industries in Watsonville are the local government and healthcare. The county office in Watsonville and Cabrillo Community College hub in downtown both serve the community and provide employment. Additionally, Watsonville Hospital, Dignity Health, and Kaiser offer care and jobs for people not only in Watsonville, but also the surrounding areas.

Thinking about buying a home in Watsonville, CA? 

If you’re considering buying a home in Watsonville, here are a few things you should know:

1. The housing market in Watsonville is highly competitive. 

2. Homes in Watsonville tend to sell quickly and often receive multiple offers. 

3. It’s important to work with a knowledgeable real estate agent who can help you navigate the local market and find a home that meets your needs.

In terms of housing options, Watsonville offers a wide range of choices to suit every budget and lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy starter home or a spacious family residence, there’s something for everyone from charming historic homes to modern condos and townhomes.

What does it take to be a homebuyer in Watsonville?

Overall, being a homebuyer is a question of affordability.

In most cases in California, people are paying rent at a higher price than the cost of a monthly mortgage.

That being said, there is no harm in checking to see if you qualify for a mortgage loan. The process is as simple as calling a local lender. A local lender will give you the most options as far as local programs that can support you. The lender can also provide pre-approval so that you know your budget for purchasing a house.

What is considered when getting a pre-approval for a home loan? 

  1. Debt-to-income ratio: how much you are spending monthly vs. your income
  2. Credit Score: A prediction of your credit behavior, which impacts your pre-approved loan amount
  3. Employment: Show a steady, reliable source of income
  4. Downpayment or Downpayment Assistance: The amount of money that you have for a downpayment will impact what type of loan you will receive
  5. Monthly Payments: The loan officer will determine your monthly payment, and you must decide what you want your monthly payment to be?

There are many different loan products available and just because one lender isn’t a match doesn’t always mean that finding a home loan isn’t achievable. 

Rely on a Realtor to Live in Watsonville, CA 

Watsonville is a wonderful place to call home. With its beautiful location, strong sense of community, and abundant recreational opportunities, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to make this vibrant city their permanent residence. 

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Watsonville, be sure to work with a reputable real estate agent and take advantage of the many resources available to you.

By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect home in this charming California city.

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