Pros and Cons of Moving to and Living in Cambria, CA

Pros and Cons of Moving to and Living in Cambria, CA

  • Brittany Hensley
  • 10/12/23

Cambria, set in the heart of San Luis Obispo County, is a captivating coastal town that captures the essence of California's beauty. It boasts serene ocean views, pine tree-lined streets, and a community that thrives on local arts and cultural events. The town's relaxed pace combined with its wealth of natural and cultural attractions makes it a sought-after destination for both residents and visitors. For those who want to delve deeper into what makes this town truly special, the Cambria Relocation Guide provides a comprehensive overview of Cambria's many offerings.

Living in Cambria, CA: A Closer Look

Situated along California's Central Coast, Cambria boasts scenic views, artsy ambiance, and unique character that make this waterfront town a must-visit destination. The town's rich history, warm atmosphere, and alluring coastal lifestyle provide the perfect backdrop for visitors and residents alike seeking their next Californian adventure!

Community and Culture

One of the highlights of Cambria is the close-knit community that thrives here. From local art galleries to performing arts events, there is always something happening. Festivals and farmers' markets bring neighbors together, fostering a sense of belonging that resonates with people of all ages.

The town’s atmosphere provides many opportunities to be active and infuses the community with youthful energy. The sheer number of historic buildings, museums, and landmarks make the seaside town a place of interest for history buffs and those keen on preserving the past.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Cambria's location along the coast offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking trails with stunning ocean views, beautiful beaches, and parks are plentiful, making it a haven for nature lovers. Whether you enjoy surfing, bird-watching, or simply strolling along the shoreline, Cambria has no shortage of stunning landscapes for your next adventure.

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve provides the perfect view for spotting uniquely Californian wildlife, including otters, whales, and regional birds. Free and open to the public 365 days a year, the preserve prides itself on showcasing the area’s rich diversity.

Lampton Cliffs Park

A cozy park on the edge of town, Lampton Cliffs Park offers a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. An open meadow and cascading staircase lead to the rocky shoreline, where eager beachgoers can get the opportunity to go tide-pooling. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to take in the stunning coastline, look no further.

Moonstone Beach Park

With access to the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk and over thirty acres of rich landscape, Moonstone Beach Park is perfect for visitors of all ages. Explore the beach, walk on the boardwalk above the rocky bluffs, and check out the magnificent tidal pools that make Moonstone Beach Park one of the state’s hidden gems.

Pros and Cons of Living in Cambria

Deciding to move to a new place often involves weighing the pros and cons. Cambria has its unique advantages and challenges, outlined below:

Pros

Cons

Active, vibrant atmosphere

Healthcare

Year-round climate

Isolation

Historic interest

Cost of living

Pros

Active, vibrant atmosphere: The presence of many activities for every age group, contributes to a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.

Year-round climate: Enjoy pleasant weather throughout the year, with mild temperatures that make outdoor activities accessible every season.

Historic interest: Explore the town's rich history through various historic sites, museums, and preserved buildings that tell the story of Cambria's past.

Weather in Cambria, California

The most pleasant months of the year for Cambria are August, September and October, with high temperatures in the range of 70-85°. September is the hottest month for Cambria, with an average high temperature of 74.7°. Any measurable snowfall is a rare occurrence in Cambria. Days with noticeable humidity combined with warmth are rare throughout the year.

Weather Highlights

  • Summer High: the July high is around 73 degrees
  • Winter Low: the January low is 43
  • Rain: averages 20 inches of rain a year
  • Snow: averages 0 inches of snow a year
Cambria's weather contributes to its year-round appeal. Whether basking in the warmth of the summer sun or enjoying the crispness of winter, the climate complements Cambria's alluring coastal lifestyle.

Restaurants

The Hidden Kitchen

Tucked away in a quaint spot, The Hidden Kitchen is all about organic, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its farm-to-table blue corn waffles, this restaurant offers a cozy garden ambiance that feels like dining in a friend's home.

Robin's Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Cambria's historic East Village, Robin's is a culinary gem that offers a blend of comfort cuisine infused with global flavors. Every dish tells a story of farm-fresh ingredients meticulously curated to delight the senses. The lush gardens resonate with the hum of live music during the season, providing an enchanting backdrop for diners and special occasions alike. Whether you're marking a milestone or seeking a tranquil retreat, Robin's promises an unforgettable experience.

Linn's Restaurant

Linn's Restaurant is the go-to destination for comfort food lovers, specializing in dishes that feel like home. Don't leave without trying their famous pies baked fresh daily — a true taste of local tradition.

Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Sea Chest Restaurant & Oyster Bar offers a nautical-themed setting and specializes in fresh oysters, shrimp, and other seafood. Plus, the restaurant’s stunning sunset views create an unforgettable dining experience. Be prepared to wait in line when you go, it’s the tradition and fun!

Madeline’s

Madeline's is an intimate and classy haven for wine and cuisine enthusiasts. Delight in boutique wines from the California Central Coast in their daily wine tasting room, including their signature handcrafted selections. Dine under candlelight, savoring French-inspired dishes amidst a revamped interior and a chef’s garden.

Cambria, CA Cost of Living

The cost of living in Cambria is slightly higher than the U.S. national average due to its more expensive housing prices and overall higher cost of goods and services. Housing expenses make up the majority of the cost of living, with homes in Cambria averaging around $750,000 in value. Other expenses, such as food, transportation, entertainment, and healthcare, are also higher than average compared to other cities nationwide. Although living here can be more expensive than elsewhere, many people find that the quality of life they receive from living in a scenic area like Cambria outweighs any financial disadvantages. It’s the perfect combination of forest and ocean which is a special combination not found everywhere!

Our cost of living indices are based on a US average of 100. An amount below 100 means Cambria is cheaper than the US average. A cost of living index above 100 means Cambria is more expensive. Cambria's cost of living is 162.2.

Expense Category

Cambria

California

USA

Overall

162.2

149.9

100

Grocery

109.71

105.1

100

Health

108.9

98.3

100

Housing

300.7

234.8

100

Median Home Cost

$959,200

$733,500

$338,100

Utilities

93.8

102.4

100

Transportation

92.2

133.1

100

Miscellaneous

144.1

118.7

100


100 = National Average

This table provides a detailed view of how living costs in Cambria compare to the state of California and the national average. It offers insights into specific expense categories, highlighting the areas where Cambria may be more or less expensive. Cambria's idyllic setting and unique characteristics may be influential factors in these costs.

About Brittany Hensley

Brittany Hensley's life-long residency on the Central Coast not only makes her an integral part of the community but also places her among the leading real estate agents in the area. Her love of the community runs deep, and she acts on it by producing The Cambria Insider and the Cambria Insider Relocation Guide for the Cambria Chamber of Commerce.

A deft problem-solver, Brittany guides her clients seamlessly through the intricacies of the home-buying process, ensuring a smooth journey free from unexpected surprises. Whether her clients are moving into the area, seeking a holiday home, or making a lifestyle change, Brittany's expertise enables her to find the perfect match for their budgets and preferences.

Her approach is strongly rooted in a client-centered philosophy. Always accessible and eager to assist, she devotes herself to satisfying her clients' needs while reducing any potential stress. As a Central Coast native, Brittany's familiarity with various types of housing—including neighborhood homes, coastal properties, first-time buyer residences, or country farmhouses—allows her to serve buyers, sellers, and investors with a unique versatility.

Brittany's profound connection to the Central Coast, coupled with her tailored and empathetic approach to real estate, distinguishes her as an extraordinary agent for anyone contemplating a move to the area. Her unwavering commitment to understanding and fulfilling her clients' dreams ensures an enriching and supportive home-buying or selling experience.

If you want to buy or sell a home or have questions about the Cambria, California real estate market, contact Brittany Hensley today.



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