Living in Santa Clarita means choosing a city where opportunity and quality of life shine under the Southern California sun. Not only is Santa Clarita engulfed in beautiful natural surroundings, a haven for cyclists and runners, but this family-oriented city also features excellent public schools, well-maintained landscapes along modern and Spanish-style homes, and top-tier amenities all within 30 minutes of Los Angeles!
The city encompasses distinctive areas such as Canyon Country, Newhall, Saugus, and Valencia, each contributing to the city’s dynamic culture and appeal. Of course, Santa Clarita can't be talked about without mention of Six Flags Magic Mountain!
If you’re done wondering if Santa Clarita is a good place to live in, plan your move and call (866) 377‑9803 to get started with an expert relocation plan.
Where Is Santa Clarita?
Just 30 miles north of LA, the city of Santa Clarita lies within Los Angeles County and the greater Los Angeles Metro. Most of the southern and eastern border is surrounded by the expanses of the Angeles National Forest and other natural areas, while Castaic Lake is to the north off Interstate 5.
The Santa Clara River runs through the direct center of the city east to west. Places that surround Santa Clarita CA include Forest Park, Lang, Del Valle, Las Cantilles, and other cities in the San Fernando Valley.
What Is the Elevation of Santa Clarita California?
Santa Clarita’s elevation averages about 1,260–1,300 feet above sea level, with lower areas near the Santa Clara River and higher neighborhoods climbing toward the valley’s surrounding hills.
How Far is Santa Clarita from Los Angeles and other Cities?
If living in Santa Clarita is your next chapter, let Movegreen handle the logistics. Call (866) 377‑9803 today for a free estimate or submit your details on our Contact Us form for a customized moving quote.
Santa Clarita Population & Demographics
Santa Clarita had an estimated population of 228,430 as of July 1, 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s latest Population Estimates Program release. The city recorded 228,673 residents in the 2020 Census, following substantial growth from 176,320 residents in 2010. This indicates a gain of 52,353 people, or 29.7%, over that decade. Santa Clarita remains the third-largest city in Los Angeles County, behind Los Angeles and Long Beach.
With a population density of 3,232.0 people per square mile compared to LA's 8,304.2, you can sense how the city of Santa Clarita CA curates a more suburban feel with a touch more breathing room.
Diving into the demographics of Santa Clarita, we see a community that represents a cross-section of America. With a 50.3% female population and a diverse age range, the city is a harmonious blend of youth and experience. About 25.4% of residents are under 18, indicating a youthful vibrancy, while those 65 and older make up 12.4%, adding a touch of wisdom and history to the area.
The racial composition of Santa Clarita reflects its inclusive spirit, and living in Santa Clarita means becoming a part of a thriving population synonymous with growth and prosperity.
Additional Demographics of Santa Clarita:
- Sex ratio: 50.3% women & 49.7% men
- Median age: 37.3 years
- Racial & ethnic composition: 56.6% White alone (43.5% White, non-Hispanic), 4.2%
- Black/African American, 0.8% American Indian/Alaska Native, 11.0% Asian, 36.7% Hispanic/Latino.
- Santa Clarita median household income: $116,186/year
- Education: 91% of Santa Clarita residents 25+ years old have a high school diploma, while 38.7% have a bachelor's degree or higher
- Foreign-born population: 21.2%
Is Santa Clarita Safe?
Santa Clarita has a lower reported crime rate than both California and the nation. In 2024, the city recorded approximately 1,342 total crimes per 100,000 residents, compared with 2,564 per 100,000 in California and 2,119 per 100,000 across the United States. Santa Clarita’s violent-crime rate was 165 per 100,000 residents (well below California’s 480 and the U.S. rate of 359), while its property-crime rate was 1,177 per 100,000, compared with 2,084 statewide and 1,760 nationally.
These incredible safety statistics and continuously low crime rate speak volumes about the peace of mind that comes with living in Santa Clarita and are proudly upheld by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station, located at 26201 Golden Valley Rd, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.
What Is the Cost of Living in Santa Clarita?
Santa Clarita has a high cost of living, largely because of housing costs. AreaVibes gives Santa Clarita a cost-of-living index of 165, with 100 representing the U.S. average. This means overall living costs in Santa Clarita are estimated to be about 65% higher than the national average and 17% higher than California’s statewide index of 141.
Santa Clarita’s housing index is 276, meaning housing costs are estimated at 176% above the U.S. average. The remaining major categories are closer to national levels, including groceries at 110, transportation at 122, utilities at 119, and health care at 120.
To give you a better idea, the Economic Policy Institute suggests a family of four would require $130,094 to comfortably live in this metro area, so if you're planning on moving to Santa Clarita, keep that general range and the following figures in mind to budget accordingly.
Typical Living Expenses in Santa Clarita CA:
- Loaf of bread (1 pound): $3.67
- A gallon of milk: $4.49
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
- Monthly Santa Clarita utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for a 915 sq ft apartment: $236.94
- Mobile phone plan: $45.33
- Gasoline (1 gallon): $4.71
- Gym membership: $45.00
- Local transportation (taxi normal tariff): $7.50
- Internet: $76.25
- One pair of jeans (Levis 501 or similar): $61.28
Data sourced from Numbeo.com
Housing in Santa Clarita
There are several homes for sale in Santa Clarita featuring a median sale price of $775,000, up 6.2% over the year, equating to $457 per square foot. The houses for sale in Santa Clarita CA are typically more affordable than Los Angeles's $982,500 median sale price, and housing options range from expansive single-family homes to new builds and Spanish-influenced residences.
If housing prices are out of your range, Santa Clarita apartments average $2,456/month, again less than LA's $2,691. The apartments in Santa Clarita are mostly modern and feature top-tier amenities, making them an ideal place to access the trails along the city's edge while coming home to a beautiful balcony view.
If you’ve crunched the numbers and decided that moving to Santa Clarita makes financial sense, get an itemized moving quote before you book.
Neighborhoods in Santa Clarita | The Best Places to Live in Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita is a city that holds onto small-town ambiance thanks to its suburban feel, and many excellent neighborhoods offer a variety of living experiences, whether you're raising kids or having fun hiking the mountains encircling the city. The city is broken down into six distinct communities, being: Valencia, Canyon Country, Saugus, Stevenson Ranch, Newhall, and Castaic, which are the best neighborhoods in Santa Clarita CA.
This new neighborhood, consisting of 85 single-family homes, was developed in 2023 and offers families modern houses featuring mid-century, farmhouse, and prairie styles in the $1.6 million price range. Located in greater Valencia, which in itself is often dubbed one of the best places to live in Santa Clarita, Skylar offers proximity to the trails, pools, and other amenities at Confluence Park, as well as Valencia Town Center. A great place for raising children, your kids will enjoy excellent schools and a location that's minutes from the theme park in addition to a community pump track!
Canyon Country
Canyon Country itself is more of a larger community, the most populous of the six primary zones in the city, and contains multiple individual Santa Clarita neighborhoods. This area is located in the eastern portion of the city and enjoys a prime location along the Santa Clara River, close to great education like Canyon Country High School. Home to the Santa Clarita Aquatics Center and multiple nearby trails, recreation is endless. Whether you're looking for a more equestrian-based living experience in a place like Sand Canyon or a tight-knit feel somewhere like Rainbow Glen, this zone is worthy of interest!
Saugus is one of the neighborhoods in Santa Clarita that offers more relaxed living experiences in condos or townhouses at more affordable price points than some of the other luxurious communities in the city. This neighborhood curates a close community feel and is known for hosting Central Park, a lovely spot for a picnic or dog walk, and is great for new families establishing their life here.
Santa Clarita Weather & Climate
Santa Clarita weather boasts a Mediterranean allure, with the warmth of 280 sun-soaked days each year outshining the national average. The average rainfall in Santa Clarita sprinkles the city with 13-14 inches annually, less than half the U.S. average, ensuring plenty of perfect days for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summer sizzles with an average high of 89°F in July, while winters are gently crisp, rarely dipping below the average low of 46°F in January.
Does It Snow in Santa Clarita?
Although snow dusting the mountains is a rare sight indeed, the city averages 0 inches per year, contrasting sharply with the national snowfall. The Santa Clarita climate and daily weather in Santa Clarita craft an idyllic setting for year-round recreational activities, from hiking to al fresco dining under the California sun.
How Cold Does It Get in Santa Clarita California?
Santa Clarita’s Mediterranean climate sees winter overnight lows typically in the low 30s–40s Fahrenheit, with rare cold snaps down to about 29°F. While daytime winter highs usually stay in the 50s–60s, according to long‑term climate data.
Ready to plan your move around Santa Clarita’s sunny forecast? Talk with Movegreen about the best time for moving to Santa Clarita by calling (866) 377‑9803.
Things to Do in Santa Clarita
Be it a quick visit or a permanent move, there are so many things to do in Santa Clarita CA to happily occupy your time. This is the perfect place for outdoor adventure, and plentiful happenings, like the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival, occur within the city if your interests lean elsewhere. For shopping needs, there are multiple great places to fulfill your retail desires, from more holistic experiences like the Santa Clarita Farmers Market to the vibrant Valencia Town Center.
Let's dig into some of the best things to do in Santa Clarita and the surrounding Santa Clara Valley!
Six Flags Magic Mountain is Santa Clarita's crowning jewel of excitement and fun. This adrenaline-packed theme park is essential to the Santa Clarita experience, boasting world-class coasters that skyline the city like monuments to joy. You haven't truly lived in Santa Clarita until you've felt the rush of Magic Mountain's legendary rides.
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355 (661-255-4100)
If hiking is on your radar, Santa Clarita is a hot spot of opportunity. Towsley Canyon Park offers some of the best hiking in the area, as well as incredible mountain biking and bird-watching opportunities. It's an accessible trail, and the wildflowers and views atop are rather stunning.
24335 The Old Rd, Newhall, CA 91321 (661-255-2937)
Gilchrist Farm invites you to embrace the rustic charm of Santa Clarita with delightful horseback riding adventures. This family-run haven is perfect for experiencing the joy of farm life, where the trails beckon and the connection with nature is as authentic as it gets. There are also plenty of other options for horseback riding in Santa Clarita!
Additional Attractions in Santa Clarita CA
For more outdoor action, spend time at one of the many parks managed by the Santa Clarita Recreation & Community Services department, keep up with city events, or stop by these additional attractions:
Restaurants in Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita restaurants are nothing short of incredible, and from casual bites to fine dining, the food scene offers up a plate of options. Whether you're on the hunt for the next lunch spot or a place to fulfill your night out, here's a handful of the best restaurants in Santa Clarita!
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Piccola Osteria, where every dish is a symphony of classic flavors served with a contemporary twist. This cozy gem in Santa Clarita is your passport to a culinary journey through Italy, right in your backyard, and truly one of the best Italian restaurants in Santa Clarita!
28524 La Madrid Dr, Santa Clarita, CA 91350 (661-367-4204)
Savor the unique fusion of sweet, savory, and often bold Filipino flavors at Pink Salt Grill, where fresh ingredients meet culinary innovation to create a memorable dining experience that tantalizes your taste buds in the heart of Santa Clarita.
23460 Cinema Dr D, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661-260-3502)
The Original Saugus Cafe
Start your day at The Original Saugus Cafe, the historic spot famed for serving up the heartiest breakfasts in town. Step into a slice of Los Angeles history and enjoy a morning meal at the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles County!
25861 Railroad Ave, Santa Clarita, CA 91355 (661-259-7886)
Jobs in Santa Clarita
The jobs in Santa Clarita, CA, span a diverse local economy, with opportunities across retail, tourism, education, manufacturing, construction, transportation, and warehousing.
Santa Clarita is one of just 42 cities with a retail market above $2 billion, and aside from retail, Santa Clarita jobs are often built on tourism, construction, manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. The leading employers in the area include Six Flags Magic Mountain, College of the Canyons, and Princess Cruises.
New businesses continue to pop up in the Santa Clarita Valley, and all of these elements contribute to a high median household income of $116,186 (in 2022 dollars), positioning residents to comfortably meet these needs. You can browse Indeed jobs Santa Clarita to discover positions now hiring, or visit the City of Santa Clarita jobs for positions in the city with excellent benefits.
Santa Clarita Schools
The schools in Santa Clarita CA are helmed by the William S. Hart Union High School District, which instills a strong sense of community and academic excellence, setting students on a path to success in the Santa Clarita Valley. Top-rated Santa Clarita high schools include Golden Valley High School, Bowman High School, and Hart High School. For the Jr. High students, Placerita Junior High School and La Mesa Junior High are among a few Santa Clarita schools providing quality education to this age group.
And, of course, for parents interested in moving to Santa Clarita, the elementary schools in Santa Clarita are top-rated, with Canyon Springs Community Elementary, Bridgeport Elementary School, Rosedell Elementary School, and other public schools promising plentiful educational options for elementary students. There are plenty of private institutions in the area, and for higher education, the area is known for The College of the Canyons and the California Institute of the Arts.
When Does School Start in Santa Clarita?
Most Santa Clarita Valley public schools in the William S. Hart Union High School District and local elementary districts begin the fall semester in early to mid‑August, with exact first‑day dates published each year on official district calendars rather than in June.
Santa Clarita Statistics & Information
- Santa Clarita County: Los Angeles
- Santa Clarita area: 62.16 square miles
- Santa Clarita zip code: 91321–91322, 91350–91351, 91354–91355, 91380, 91385–91387, 91390
- Santa Clarita area code: 661
- Santa Clarita California elevation: 1270 ft.
- City of Santa Clarita CA time zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC -7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Santa Clarita: The Hollywood Burbank Airport
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Santa Clarita
What Are the Best Family Hotels in Santa Clarita?
Families often choose hotels in Valencia and near Six Flags Magic Mountain for quick access to the amusement park, pools, and breakfast‑included options. Major chains cluster along I‑5 and near shopping centers, giving visitors to Santa Clarita an easy base for regional sports and arts events.
What Airport Is Closest to Santa Clarita?
The closest major airport is Hollywood Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport), roughly 20–25 miles south. While Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) lies about 35–40 miles farther toward downtown Los Angeles, both are reachable via regional freeways.
How to Get to Santa Clarita by Train?
You can reach Santa Clarita via Metrolink’s Antelope Valley Line from Los Angeles Union Station, with the Santa Clarita station on Soledad Canyon Road, plus additional valley stops. Amtrak trains to nearby Los Angeles connect easily to these commuter services.
When Was Santa Clarita Established?
Santa Clarita incorporated as a new city in 1987, uniting several communities in the valley. Historically, the area traces back to Rancho San Francisco and 19th‑century towns like Newhall and Saugus along the important Newhall Pass corridor.
What Is the Sales Tax in Santa Clarita California Institute?
Santa Clarita’s combined sales tax rate is currently around 9.5–9.75%, including California state tax, Los Angeles County tax, and special district add‑ons. The city itself does not add an extra local sales tax on top of those components.
Who Owns Santa Clarita Harley Davidson?
Harley‑Davidson of Santa Clarita is co‑owned by Oliver Shokouh (long‑time Glendale Harley dealer and Love Ride founder) and actor Robert Patrick, who together operate the dealership serving riders across the southwest.
Santa Clarita CA Map
Explore all this lovely city has to offer with this interactive Santa Clarita map!
Ready to Move to Santa Clarita? Get a Free Moving Quote Now!
Is Santa Clarita a good place to live? Yes, since Santa Clarita consistently ranks as one of Southern California’s safest, most family‑friendly cities, with strong schools, extensive parks and trails, and a growing job market that supports a high median household income.
Movegreen has operated in Southern California since 2007, has earned more than 30 green and service awards, and is recognized by third‑party organizations like BestCompany, HomeAdvisor, Yelp, and BBB for high customer satisfaction and A+‑rated service near Santa Clarita.
Our crews handle residential, commercial, and specialty moves, offer full‑service packing, secure storage solutions, and carefully planned local and long‑distance relocations.
If you’re ready to test whether Santa Clarita is a good place to live for you, the next step is getting expert help for your relocation. Call Movegreen at (866) 377‑9803 to speak directly with Santa Clarita Movers or get a personalized plan for moving to Santa Clarita that matches your timeline, budget, and household needs.
