Homes For Sale In Valley Center CA

Valley Center Real Estate

Research real estate market trends and find homes for sale in Valley Center CA.  Valley Center is a type of area known as a census-designated place in 92082. Unlike other areas, it does not have a clearly defined boundary or an independent governmental structure. Search for new Valley Center homes, open houses, recently sold homes, and recent price reductions.  Valley Center is southeast of Fallbrook, east of Bonsall, and northeast of Escondido.

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Available Homes In Valley Center

Valley Center Real Estate March 18, 2024
32
Listed
41
Avg. DOM
$522.71
Avg. $ / Sq.Ft.
$1,099,000
Med. List Price
32 Properties
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All About Living in Valley Center California

If you're looking for a beautiful, safe, and fun place to live, Valley Center California should be at the top of your list. Read more about the location here.

There are so many reasons to live in California. After all, you get to experience great weather, adventures, healthy living, diverse cultures, and plenty of opportunities, plus a whole range of other benefits. But, what are the best places to live in California? 

One of the best places to live is in northern San Diego County. If you want all the benefits of the city on your doorstep and to live in a rural area, Valley Center, California, could be for you. 

Valley Center is located around 40 miles outside of San Diego city. It offers great Californian real estate opportunities, and the community continues to grow. Read on for everything you need to know about living in Valley Center, California. 

All About Valley Center California 

Valley Center is a census-designated place, which is not incorporated. It is not officially considered a city or town; however, sometimes people refer to it as one. It is located in Northern San Diego County, about a 45-minute drive inland from San Diego city.  

The main access to Valley Center is via Valley Center Road (S-6), which links Escondido and Valley Center. It is close to other popular San Diego County areas such as Carlsbad too. 

Valley Center is spread over nearly 100 square miles. It has a sparse suburban feel. However, there is still a lot to see and do. There is also a close-knit community and some of the best luxury homes in California.

The population is increasing fast, as people realize that Valley Center is one of the best places to live in California. Currently, the population is over 11,000, which is a 19.40% increase since the last census. 

Valley Center History 

Some of the earliest records of Valley Center date back to the late 1790s when a Franciscan missionary visited the area for the San Diego Mission. However, there were several Native American groups in the area including, Luiseno, Cahuilla, Cupeno, Kumeyaay, and Northern Diegueño. Groups such as the Kumeyaay had lived in San Diego county for thousands of years.

In 1845 Rancho Guejito was established, which is one of the original ranches in the area. At this time, California was still a province of Mexico, and the land was a grant from Pio Pico, who was the Mexican Provincial Governor. This time of history is often known as the 'Days of the Dons.' 

In 1862 union militia were around the Valley Center to guard telegraph lines. Then in 1863, more people began to arrive in the Valley Center, as President Lincoln had signed the Homestead Act. By 1874 the post office was set up in Valley Center, and the population slowly began to grow.

After the Second World War, San Diego began to become the city it is today. Valley Center also began to grow with installing the world's largest telescope in Palomar Mountain, making it the 'highway to the stars.' The arrival of the water service in 1955 also set in motion the agricultural expansion for the area. 

Valley Center Community and Schools

Valley Center has its own school district called the Valley Center Unified Schools District. There are several schools in the area:

  • One Pre-K-3 building and three K-3 schools
  • An intermediate school for fourth and fifth grades
  • A sixth, seventh and eighth-grade middle school
  • A 5A high school.

The quality of the public schools is excellent, with overall B+ rankings and A rankings in certain areas such as the teachers. There is also the Pine Glen Academy, which is a private school. 

There is also a Learning Center, which offers virtual and adult learning opportunities at The Learning Center. The center helps all ages earn their high school diploma.

There is also a strong community. Meeting points include the Valley Center Parks community center. The Valley Center Chamber of Commerce also has a community action network and holds different events.

The Valley Center community also hosts different events, such as volunteering opportunities. Join events such as park clean-ups.  

Valley Center Parks and Recreation

Valley Center has several parks to enjoy the stunning surroundings. Valley Center Parks is a good space for picnics, and there are different events such as exercise classes as the community center is also here. 

The Valley Center Community Church Park and Robert Adams Community Park are also beautiful green spaces to relax. There are also children's playgrounds, a community pool, and plenty of shade for sunny days. The Star Valley Park used to be a ranch and is now also a public park space. 

The newly opened Harvest Park also has an event stage, a sports court, barbecue, and picnic areas. 

The Valley Center Park is also a hub for recreation activities. There are five ball fields, horseshoe courts, a skatepark, and a sports field. Youth and adult sports events are held here, including little league. 

The Valley Venter Fitness gym, martial arts, CrossFit, and sports clubs, such as the Valley Center Tennis Club. It is a great spot to meet people from the community. On the way out of Valley Center, there is also the Escondido Fish & Game Association. 

Valley Center Arts, Music, and Entertainment

You have the best of both worlds in Valley Center, California. You have a range of entertainment options to keep you busy in the area. However, you are also close to other areas of northern San Diego County and the city itself if you want to experience a larger arts scene. 

Museums 

There are several museums to enjoy in the Valley Center area. Visit the Valley Center History Museum, which reveals the area's long history and a few surprises. It is full of vintage newspapers, art, historical documents, photographs, and more. 

You get to see 'the World's smallest post office,' which was once a building in the community. There is also taxidermy of an actual Grizzly and documents relating to Hollywood movies that were filmed here.

You can also visit The Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians museum, which preserves their culture, history, and traditions. 

Valley Center Farms 

Valley Center is still full of farms and ranches to explore. SoCalMiniPigs allows you to visit the mini pigs or even purchase one. 

The Happy Heart Haven also aims to connect people with animals. You can see many different farm animals. The farm also arranges different events, such as pumpkin hunts. 

Bates Nut Farm used to grow walnuts and now sells nuts from around the world. It also has a farm zoo with different animals such as alpacas, emus, peacocks, and mini-donkeys. 

Morningstar Ranch is a Pacific Crest Trail stop with animals, avocados, gardens, ponds, and other interesting projects to explore. 

Key Creek Lavender Farm is another popular spot for photographers, weddings, yoga retreats, and more. It is a beautiful farm with a shop on site too.

Animals 

Farms are not the only way to interact with animals in Valley Center, California. Nurtured By Nature is an otter encounter experience, which aims to educate people on the 13 different types of otter in North America. Public swims are by reservation only, as their focus is on Make-A-Wish. 

Casinos 

There are two casinos nearby. Harrah's Resort Southern California does not just offer gambling. It also has a 400-foot river, swim-up bar, live entertainment, and other events. 

Valley View Casino and Hotel is a traditional casino ran by the San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians. It also has live entertainment, a pool, and other events. 

Music

There are live music events, often help at Harrah's casino. There are also bands in the local area that often work at different events. There is also the Valley Center Music Fest, which brings local music groups together.

Breweries and Wineries 

Hill Top Winery and Triple B Ranches are two nearby wineries to visit. They offer tastings in beautiful settings. And there are plenty of wines to purchase too. 

There are also some nearby breweries, such as the Rincon Reservation Road Brewery. It is based in Harrah's resort. 

Festivals 

There are also several festivals throughout the year in the Valley Center area. For example, the Valley Center Western Days Festival & Parade celebrates the Western heritage and includes a rodeo. The Music Fest is another popular event.

Other Entertainment

The Valley Center California Library often hosts events for all ages, such as craft events and workshops. There is also the Maxine Theatre, which is in the high school performing arts center. Enjoy a variety of different shows. 

For nightlife, there are several bars. But the main hubs nearby are the casinos. Alternatively, you can venture to nearby areas or into the city. 

Valley Center Dining

There are a variety of different dining options available in Valley Center, California. You can enjoy dining options in the casinos, too, such as The Buffet and Black&Blue Steakhouse and Lounge.

Some popular dining options in Valley Center include:

  • The Yellow Deli
  • Portinos Restaurant 
  • Fat Ivor's Rib Rack
  • Peterson's Donut Corner
  • Cenote Grill
  • Country Junction Deli
  • QDOBA Mexican Eats
  • Birdies Bar and Grill
  • Casa Reveles Restaurant

There are casual dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But if you want something more than a laid-back eatery, you also have some upscale options too. There is also some variety in cuisine, which reflects the diverse range of cultures in San Diego county. 

Other notable mentions include Motherload Farm, which is a hydroponic organic farm, nursery, and bakery. There are also coffee options, including Starbucks and local options like Spins Coffee Truck. 

Valley Center Transportation

A Northern San Diego bus route connects you to the City of Escondido, which has a variety of transport links to reach other areas such as San Diego city. You can continue by bus or use the Sprinter Light Rail line. There is also a high-speed rail in planning, which may go to Escondido or beyond. 

Valley Center Traffic

The main factor influencing traffic in the Valley Center area is constructing the new Californian real estate. There are projects such as gateways for unincorporated communities such as Valley Center, California. There are also traffic calming studies to work on controlling traffic flow.

It is a rural area, so most of the time there are no significant issues with traffic. However, if you are traveling through Escondido and into San Diego city, you will encounter some traffic. 

Valley Center Weather

One of the main reasons to live in California is the weather. And one of the best places to live in California is San Diego county because of its pleasant climate year-round.

Valley Center gets around 15 inches of rain per year, whereas the average rainfall in the US is 38 inches. It is extremely uncommon for it to snow unless there is an adverse weather event. 

Like the rest of the northern San Diego country, Valley Center gets many sunny days. On average, it experiences 258 sunny days a year, so you can enjoy your surroundings no matter what the month.

The summer high temperature is usually around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the winter low is around 39 degrees Fahrenheit on average. Enjoy mild winters and sunny skies in summer. 

Working in Valley Center 

One of the main industries in Valley Center is agriculture. There are many ranches around. However, the arrival of the casinos has also meant there are a lot of jobs available with them. 

Although no major corporations are based here, there are many local businesses and different sectors for job opportunities. Also, some residents commute into San Diego or its surrounding neighborhoods for their work. You get to enjoy a peaceful area and be close enough to many major corporations in San Diego county. 

Cost of Living in Valley Center California

The cost of living is higher than the national average in Valley Center, like in many parts of California. It works out at around 34% higher than the national average because of the prime location, some of the best luxury homes in California, and the excellent quality of life on offer. 

Valley Center, California, still works out cheaper than many areas in northern San Diego County and California. It also offers potential for investment as the area continues to grow. 

Valley Center Outdoor Recreation

Spending time outdoors offers many health benefits. One of the main reasons Valley Center is one of the best places to live in California is the outdoor activities on its doorstep. 

There are a variety of trails around the area, including the popular Heritage Trail. There are also many other hikes on offer, including the Bear Ridge Trails. Daley Ranch is a nature reserve with hiking trails and a lake.

Visit the 'Highway to the Stars' and what was once the largest telescope globally on Palomar Mountain. Hellhole Canyon Open Space Reserve is also nearby. It is full of hiking trails, animals, flora, and campsites. For those interested in camping, there are also different campsites such as Woods Valley Campgrounds.

For those who want more adventure, you can try the La Jolla Zip Zoom Ziplines in Pauma Valley. Or take a trip to the beautiful Yellow Brick Road of Valley Center, which has ties to the Wizard of Oz. You can also enjoy stillness at night and can stargaze on clear evenings. 

Valley Center Shopping

You can take advantage of being able to access fresh local produce in Valley Center. There are local shops you can support in the area. There are also different markets, including the Valley Center Farmer's market, which is weekly year-round. 

Valley Center California has all the amenities you need for fresh local produce and other needs, such as pharmacies. And you are close enough to other areas of northern San Diego County to access larger shops and shopping malls.  

Valley Center Sports

There are no professional sports teams in Valley Center, California. However, you can follow school athletics and little league. If you want more action, you can make your way into San Diego city for a variety of different professional sports, such as baseball and soccer. 

Valley Center Social and Membership Clubs

Along with the Valley Center Tennis Club, there is also the Woods Valley Golf Club nearby. It is an 18-hole championship golf course with practice greens, a pro shop, and a driving range.

There is also the Pauma Valley Country Club, which is an exclusive private golf and country club hideaway. And there is the Native Oaks Golf Club.

There is also the Rotary Club of Valley Center. For children, there is the Boys and Girls Club of San Diego, which focuses on youth development. 

Valley Center Real Estate

There is a variety of Californian real estate on offer in Valley Center. Demand continues to grow, and the area is becoming more suburban, with new estates and neighborhoods being created. 

All neighborhoods are popular in Valley Center, and houses tend to be spread out. Some areas to explore include: 

  • Ridge Creek Road/ Circle Road Drive 
  • Paradise Mountain Road  
  • Sky Ridge
  • Fruitvale 
  • Pauma Valley 

Fruitvale and Paradise Mountain is close to some of the schools and offers a variety of upscale properties. Ridge Creek neighborhood has a variety of different single-family homes and townhomes on offer. Sky Ridge has many ranch-style homes with estate-sized properties. 

Pauma Valley is between Valley Center and the Palomar Mountain. However, there are many different areas to explore. So, a reputable real estate agency can help you find your perfect location in Valley Center, California. 

Notable Valley Center Homes and Estates

Several new estates are being built in the area, including Park Circle. It is a whole community with amenities such as pools, parks, trails, and recreation centers. 

The Californian real estate here ranges in style. Most homes are luxurious and are dated from the 1970s to the present day. Many feature amenities such as swimming pools. 

A lot of the homes have land, privacy, and incredible vistas of the valley. The homes make the most of the space, tranquility, and beautiful scenery. 

Notable Valley Center Residents

There are many notable Valley Center residents of past and present, which is another reason why Valley Center is an amazing place to live. Some of the residents include: 

  • Jack Haley, Actor (Tin Man: Wizard of OZ)
  • Glen Bell, Founder of Taco Bell
  • Bill Murray, Actor
  • Donald H. Gordon, Aviation inventor, and pioneer 
  • Sean Salisbury, Sports analyst
  • John Wayne, Actor
  • Kevin Craft, Former UCLA Quarterback
  • Gary Garrison, San Diego Chargers
  • Fred Biletnikoff, Oakland Raiders
  • John DeLorean, Auto tycoon
  • Mae West, Actress
  • Agnes White Tizard (first Betty Crocker)

You will understand why so many notable residents of past and present chose Valley Center as their home. And why so many more will continue to do so. It is one of the best places to live in California for its beautiful surroundings and proximity to the city. 

Valley Center Fun Facts

It always helps to learn quirks about a place before you live there. These interesting facts might help persuade you to move to Valley Center if you are still unsure. Here are some fun facts about Valley Center, California:

  • Valley Center captured the largest California Grizzly in history of 2,200 pounds
  • Because of the grizzly capture, it was originally named Bear Valley
  • A Wizard of Oz actor and producer lived in Valley Center, and there is a yellow brick road
  • The original post office was ranked smallest in the world 
  • Aviation pioneer Donald H. Gordon often tested flights over Valley Center

Valley Center is full of surprises to discover. There is an endless amount of fun facts you will uncover while living there. You will find many of your own reasons to stay!

Live in Valley Center California

Valley Center California offers a tranquil community space with endless outdoor possibilities and some great Californian real estate. Whether you want to retire there or escape the city rush as a commuter, it has something for everyone. Enjoy being close to the land while still being close enough to all the amenities you need. 

Are you ready to make the move to Valley Center? The premium real estate agency LUXURYSOCALREALTY is ready to find you your ideal California real estate. Contact us today to get started. 

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Listing information last updated on March 19, 2024 12:45 AM EST.