Nobel prize winning author John Steinbeck immortalized Salinas, California with his powerful and keen writings and observations of the human spirit. Salinas, affectionately named "The Valley of the World" by Steinbeck, is located within Monterey County northwest of Fresno between Santa Cruz and Carmel Valley along US Highway 101. Salinas is situated inland about eight miles from Monterey and hugs the banks of the Salinas River.

This lush and beautiful community offers a unique combination of climate, natural resources and people. The city of Salinas was born after Mexico seceded from Spain in 1822 and began granting rancho lands. Named for a nearby salt marsh, Salinas became the seat of Monterey County in 1872 and incorporated in 1874. Today the Salinas Valley is known as "The Salad Bowl of the World" for the production of lettuce, broccoli, mushrooms and strawberries, along with numerous other crops. Salinas produces 80 percent of the nations lettuce, 50 percent of its cauliflower and mushrooms, 25 percent of its celery, 60 percent of its broccoli and 90 percent of its artichokes. The climate is also ideal for the floral industry and grape vineyards planted by world-famous vintners.

The weather in Salinas is mild. Because of its proximity to the Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean, the temperatures never become extreme. The average temperature is 68 degrees. During the winter the temperatures are generally in the 60's falling to the mid 30's at night. It rarely snows here except in the outlining hills, but great winter recreation can be enjoyed nearby in the Sierra Mountains. Salinas has an average annual rainfall of 14.14 inches that occurs mainly in the winter and in early spring.

Agriculture forms the economic base, though more than 100 manufacturing firms call Salinas home. Some of the largest employers in the area include: Dole Fresh Vegetable, the County of Monterey, Household Credit Services and Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. The median household income is $43,720.

Salinas, with a population of 143,920 residents, is a community of neighborhoods and a wide variety of housing options. With Victorians and the historic Spanish influence, Salinas provides renters and homebuyers with a plethora of housing choices, from modest cottages and modern townhouses to spacious "rancheros" nestled in the oak-dotted countryside. Newer developments provide attractive and creative homes and condominiums, while there are many modern homes in well-established neighborhoods. Newcomers and longtime residents will find a neighborhood to their liking, regardless of whether they are looking for something larger to accommodate a growing family, or simply want to find smaller quarters for their retirement years. The median home price for a single-family residence is $268,000.

Considered more laid back and down to earth than some neighboring communities, Salinas is every bit as charming with stately and elaborate buildings which are home to antique stores, restaurants, shops and banks. The Oldtown district has century-old architecture including the famous Steinbeck Center. Residents can also explore the nearby Monterey Peninsula: the historic missions of San Jan Bautista, Soledad, Carmel and San Antonio de Padus, the world class wineries of South Monterey County and the beauty of nearby beaches and Pinnacles National Monument.

Salinas' warm hospitality blends yesterday's charisma with today's modern conveniences. The California Rodeo, California International Airshow., and the world famous Steinbeck Festival are all major attractions of the vibrant and diverse city. Other fun annual events include the Cherry's Jubilee Classic Car Show, Salinas Valley Salad Days, Salsa Festival, and El Grito.

Salinas has an outstanding educational environment for community students. The city has three elementary school districts, a unified high school district and several private schools. Hartnell College, a state community college, offers two-year degrees and occupational certificate programs. California State University at Monterey Bay is located less than 15 miles away on the former Ft. Ord. Graduate studies through Chapman College, Golden Gate University and the Monterey Institute of International Studies are available nearby. Also in the area are Moss Landing Marine Laboratory, Monterey College of Law and Stanford University's Hopkins Marine Station.


Salinas is a rich and stunningly beautiful community that offers a healthy economy, good schools, and a high quality of life. It is a perfect place to live, work, retire or raise a family. If you are considering moving here, or would like more information, please feel free to request a free relocation package today!