Moorpark is a hidden gem nestled in a beautiful valley, ringed by mountains. The temperate microclimate and blend of suburban and country living have encouraged developers like Toll Brothers, K. Hovnanian, and Pardee to create communities that blend seamlessly with the existing homes, ranches, and farms. The unique lifestyle here reflects the area’s decades-long agricultural history. Lemon and avocado orchards still dot the valley. Moorpark was named for the Moorpark apricot which grew throughout the valley. Historic High Street, with restaurants, salons, boutiques, and the High Street Theatre, still retains its old-town western charm.
The supportive local government encourages responsible development and new business, being named in the “Top 10 Business Friendly Cities in California” in a survey by Claremont-McKenna College’s Rose Institute of State and Local Government. An increasing number of top companies and small businesses are calling Moorpark home in a way that retains the small-town feel. For commuters, the centrally located Amtrak/Metrolink Station is an attractive option for those who work in downtown Los Angeles or Burbank; residents will often take the train north to Santa Barbara or San Luis Obispo for a day trip or overnight wine tasting.
Consistently rated one of the safest cities in the US, Moorpark has plenty of recreational options with abundant open space with hiking and equestrian trails, parks, and first-class golf courses. The Moorpark Unified School District encompasses six elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, one continuation school, and the award-winning High School at Moorpark College. Well-known for quality education, Moorpark schools have won the statewide Academic Decathlon for 5 of the past 15 years. Moorpark College is a unique and top-rated college with programs in business, science, and vocational studies. The exotic animal training and management curriculum operates with an expanding on-campus zoo facility which is open to the public. The physics and astronomy departments also boast Ventura County’s only public observatory.
It’s easy to see why Moorpark is one of Ventura County’s best-kept secrets with its rural feel, beautiful homes, excellent schools, gentle climate, and convenient location.