Huntington Beach, California
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Huntington Beach
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Home to the U.S. Open of Surfing, Huntington Beach has often claimed the title of best California beach. The deep sandy beaches that were once home to miles of oil fields are now a suntanner's paradise, perfect for volleyball, bonfires, and of course, surfing. The 1,850-foot pier is an iconic landmark that locals love for its dining, views, and fishing opportunities. Downtown is a great place to grab a cocktail in the evening or breakfast and coffee before taking a walk on the coast. If you want something a bit more intimate, Huntington Harbor is a neighborhood consisting of islands and peninsulas, with many homes boasting waterfront decks and private docks. There are even homes with permitted horse property and trails in the hilltop neighborhoods like Country View Estates.
Cost of Living
Huntington Beach is one of the largest cities in the Los Angeles and Orange County area, and it offers a wide range of prices and homestyles, from condos on the relatively affordable side to multi-million dollar mansions. Overall the cost of living is consistent with its beachside neighbors, but considerably higher than most inland options. Although the property taxes in Orange County are comparatively high as well, residents get access to amazing schools and amenities.
Transportation
Huntington Beach is popular among those who are looking for a beach town vibe but are unwilling to compromise on accessibility. Running through town are Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) and Beach Boulevard (CA-38), while the bordering 405 freeway provides easy access to interstates 5, 55, 22, and 73, which will get you on your way to anywhere you need to go within the state. For further travel, John Wayne Airport is just minutes south of the city in nearby Santa Ana, while Long Beach Airport is about a 30-minute drive away.
Schools
Primarily serviced by three main school districts—Huntington Beach Union High School District, Huntington Beach City School District, and Ocean View School District—Huntington Beach has four high schools, six middle schools, and 17 elementary schools. Huntington Beach is also home to several private and montessori schools. With so many available options, parents will be confident their children will be in a great learning environment. Along with fantastic K-12 options, Huntington Beach is home to Golden West College, one of the top 10 community colleges in California.
Attractions
Huntington Beach’s most celebrated holiday is inarguably the 4th of July. Boasting the largest Independence Day parade west of the Mississippi River, beach-cruisers and their riders flock to Main Street by the hundreds to see floats, bands, equestrian groups, and fireworks. There are plenty of year-round demonstrations of civic pride as well, including the Tuesday Night Street Fair on Main Street. Huntington Beach’s Central Park is a hub of activity as well, including a regionally renowned sports complex, ultimate frisbee courses, and picnic areas where there are almost always community events going on, pancake breakfasts being a local favorite. However the crown jewel of the park is the Huntington Beach Central Library, a large and beautiful facility nestled in the park among the lakes and adjacent to the lavender garden. There are also several golf courses in town and a cherished dog beach.