Thinking of moving to Guadalupe CA? This tight-knit community is known for its peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere and its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The pleasant weather makes living in Guadalupe CA enjoyable year-round. Most of the city of Guadalupe CA is easily within walking distance, and residents often describe the neighborhood as warm and welcoming. Many families are moving to Guadalupe CA, and the city has a vibrant population of young people.
Guadalupe has a rich history. Just a few years before the founding of the United States in 1776, Spanish explorers settled in what is now Guadalupe. In fact, the Portolá expedition camped here in 1769, seven years earlier. Long before European arrival, the region was home to Native American communities who had inhabited the area for generations.
Today, Guadalupe is best known for the impressive Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, one of California’s largest coastal dune ecosystems, and the thriving agricultural landscape that surrounds the city.
Where Is Guadalupe CA?
The city is part of Santa Barbara County, just 9 miles west of Santa Maria. To the south, beyond the hills, lies Vandenberg Space Force Base. The drive from Guadalupe CA to Santa Barbara is 70 miles southeast. Heading north along the coast, you'll find a string of small towns and villages scattered all the way up to Monterey, approximately 170 miles away.
This small city is located near the coast and the famous Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, a dramatic landscape featured in numerous films.
The Guadalupe CA public transportation is managed by Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which connects it to destinations as far south as San Diego. In addition, local bus line 40 runs hourly between Guadalupe and Santa Maria, where further regional and long-distance transportation is available from the Santa Maria Amtrak Bus Station.
Guadalupe Population and Demographics
The population living in Guadalupe CA is 8,057 people, growing by about 14% since 2010. The town has grown much faster than the rest of the county - people find this quiet and beautiful town a very nice place to live.
Demographics for the people living in Guadalupe CA:
- Guadalupe CA population is 49.2% female and 50.8% male.
- About 36% of the population is under 18 years old, significantly higher than the national average of 21.7%. The median age is 27.6 years, more than 10 years younger than the national median.
- The median household income of the people living in Guadalupe CA is $71,048, yet 28.3% of residents live below the poverty line.
- The racial and ethnic composition of Guadalupe is:
- 47.7% White (7.4% White, non-Hispanic)
- 0.6% Black or African American
- 4.5% Native American
- 3.1% Asian
- 0.2% Pacific Islander
- 57% of adult residents have graduated from high school, and only 11% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher — both figures are well below the national averages.
Guadalupe CA Crime Rate
Guadalupe has a relatively low crime rate. According to FBI statistics, Guadalupe ranks low on all crime types. For example, the property crime rate is 11 per 1000 inhabitants, compared to 24 per 1000 for the state of California. Living in Guadalupe CA is considered safe.
The town is served by the Guadalupe Police Department, with 24/7 staffing.
Cost of Living in Guadalupe CA
The cost of living in Guadalupe CA, is higher than the national average. As is typical for much of the state, housing costs are also above the national average. According to Redfin, the average home price in Guadalupe is approximately $630,000.
The city has several local grocery stores and small shops, but for a wider range of shopping options, residents often visit nearby Santa Maria, just a short drive away.
Typical Expenses Living in Guadalupe CA*
- 1 meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.64
- Loaf of fresh white bread: $2.55
- 1 pound of apples: $1.70
- 1 pound of potatoes: $1.36
- 1 gallon of gasoline: $4.68
- Average Guadalupe utilities per month: $165.00
Source: Numbeo
*Note: Prices are based on data from Santa Maria, as statistics specific to Guadalupe are not available.
Guadalupe CA Real Estate and Housing
Is housing affordable when moving to Guadalupe CA? The median home price in Guadalupe is approximately $630,000, which is significantly above the national average of $438,357, but still well below California’s average of $852,900. So while it may not be considered affordable by national standards, real estate in Guadalupe is relatively affordable compared to the rest of California.
As a small town, the number of Guadalupe Ca homes for sale is limited, so it’s worth taking the time to explore the market and find the best fit. Living in Guadalupe CA means a real estate investment of about:
- Two-bedroom condos can be found for around $500,000
- Four-bedroom homes typically exceed $700,000
- The average price per square foot is approximately $501
One notable development is the Pasadera Homes project, a newly built community featuring hundreds of single-family homes inspired by classic Spanish architecture.
In addition to purchasing a home, there is a good selection of homes to rent. Approximately 40% of the housing market consists of rentals, which is higher than the national average, making it a strong market for renters and investors. According to Rentcafe, most apartments for rent in Guadalupe CA were built within the last 25 years and are located in low-rise buildings. The average rent in Guadalupe CA is $3,015.
Guadalupe CA Weather and Climate
Living in Guadalupe CA means enjoying pleasant weather almost all year round. Guadalupe has a mild warm-summer Mediterranean climate, which is ideal for farming with plenty of sunny days and little rain.
The best time to visit is in the summer, from mid-June to mid-September. The warmest month is September, with an average max temperature of 74 °F. The December average minimum temperature is 40°F.
There are few natural hazards; the only considerable risk is earthquakes. But living in Guadalupe CA is not as high a risk as those areas directly under the fault lines.
Things to Do in Guadalupe CA
Guadalupe offers a charming mix of natural beauty and small-town warmth. From exploring the stunning dunes to discovering local history and culture, there's plenty to experience in this small town.
Most visitors come to experience the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, renowned for their natural beauty and unique coastal landscape. The dunes have been featured in numerous films, including Cecil B. DeMille’s The Ten Commandments and scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.
Start your visit at the Dunes Center in downtown Guadalupe. The center offers exhibits for all ages, including hands-on activities and information about local wildlife and ecosystems.
The dunes stretch over 18 miles along the coastline, with Guadalupe the central access point for exploration.
1065 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, (805) 343-2455
Located within the dunes, Oso Flaco Lake is popular with anyone living in Guadalupe CA; a freshwater lake ideal for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. A scenic boardwalk trail crosses the lake and leads through dunes to the ocean, making it one of the area's hidden gems.
3098 Oso Flaco Lake Rd #3004, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
The Guadalupe Historical Museum tells the story of over 150 years of local life, from culture to the economy. It’s a great spot for both locals and visitors to explore the town’s rich history.
1005 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, (805) 343-5901
Attractions Near Guadalupe
- Guadalupe Library Located on Main Street, it's surrounded by small shops, local businesses, and essential services.
- Point Sal Overlook Highest peak on the hills south of Guadalupe, this is the best place for hiking and panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
- Boomers Park & Preisker Park (Santa Maria) Fun parks for children with recreational activities and family-friendly spaces
- The Royal Theater A beloved local landmark from 1940, this historic theater remains a symbol of Guadalupe’s rich community heritage.
Guadalupe CA Restaurants
Most of the restaurants in Guadalupe CA are right along Guadalupe Street. The atmosphere is laid-back with several great Mexican restaurants.
Charming Mexican restaurant with authentic cuisine and colourful interior. Amazing nachos and fresh salsas.
914 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, (805) 343-2850
Low-key Mexican with homemade tortillas, tasty chile relleño, and great service.
871 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, (805) 343-2588
Great Chinese food, famous party platters with BBQ chicken chow mein. Friendly staff and warm atmosphere.
887 Guadalupe St, Guadalupe, CA 93434, 916-672-6263
Private and Public Schools in Guadalupe CA
For the families with children living in Guadalupe CA there are many good schools. Mary Buren Elementary School and Kermit McKenzie Junior High School are local schools with a strong sense of community, even though test scores are currently a bit below average.
With the town growing, a brand-new school is being built — Guadalupe Junior High School is set to open in fall 2025 and will welcome just under 500 students. It’s an exciting upgrade with modern facilities and more room for students.
For high school, students head to Righetti High School in nearby Santa Maria.
And for fun outside of class, the Boys & Girls Club of Guadalupe offers tons of great activities for kids of all ages — a real hub for the local community.
Jobs in Guadalupe CA
Guadalupe is best known for its agriculture, which is also the city’s largest employer. Over 30% of local jobs are in farming, and major companies like Taylor Farms Guadalupe CA employ more than 600 people during peak season.
Beyond agriculture, there are also opportunities in education and public administration, which make up the second-largest employment sector in town. Manufacturing is another key industry in Guadalupe, with even more job options available nearby in Santa Maria and other cities in Santa Barbara County.
Altogether, the area offers a diverse job market. For current listings, check Indeed and the City of Guadalupe’s local job board, which are regularly updated with new openings.
The average base salary for Guadalupe CA jobs, according to PayScale, is $86,000 per year.
Guadalupe Statistics and Information
- Guadalupe CA County: Santa Barbara, California
- Guadalupe area: 1.3 square miles
- Guadalupe CA zip code: 93434
- Guadalupe area code: 805
- Guadalupe time zone: Pacific Pacific Time Zone (UTC -7 and -8)
- The closest airport to Guadalupe: Sacramento International Airport (SMF), 35 miles from Guadalupe
Map of Guadalupe California
Explore more things to do before moving with this map of Guadalupe CA.
Is Living in Guadalupe CA for You?
Moving to Guadalupe CA offers a wide range of opportunities! If living in Guadalupe CA is in your future, then get in touch with the Santa Barbara movers at Movegreen. Our team will get your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently.
To discuss your move and get started with a free quote, give us a call today at (866) 684-7336.
