Moving to Arroyo Grande

Known for its historical charm, Arroyo Grande was first discovered by Portuguese settlers who were attracted by its fertile ground. Today, the city remains an agricultural haven that is part of California's wine country. True to its roots, Arroyo Grande's picturesque downtown centre blends rural and urban, as roosters and chickens freely roam the area around city hall.  

Those moving to Arroyo Grande will discover a city teeming with lush green spaces, gorgeous beaches and beautiful family-friendly and tight-knit communities.

Cost of living in Arroyo Grande 

The quality of life in Arroyo Grande is excellent, but it comes at a price – 20 percent above the national average, to be precise. Several A-list celebrities have called the city home, and this, among other factors, has affected housing prices.  

Grocery prices have been steadily increasing, but new arrivals can curb the effect by shopping in season and visiting the city's markets to find fresh and affordable produce. Naturally, wine is also fairly affordable in Arroyo Grande.   

Most people living in Arroyo Grande choose to drive, as public transport links in the city are limited. New arrivals will likely have to account for the cost of buying and maintaining a vehicle, which can become expensive. Out-of-pocket healthcare costs in Arroyo Grande are slightly higher than the national average, so newcomers must ensure they have comprehensive health insurance to cover any possible healthcare emergencies.

Getting around in Arroyo Grande 

Although public transport in Arroyo Grande is limited, the city’s downtown centre is walkable, while ride-share options also abound. Arroyo Grande is home to local and regional bus services. The cycling infrastructure in the city is not as comprehensive as some newcomers may expect, but cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Arroyo Grande.

The San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution and Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition introduced the SLO Car Free programme in 2009 to encourage sustainable travel in Arroyo Grande. Programme participants pledge to travel around the city using public transit or on foot, which makes them eligible to receive discounts from participating local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and vineyards offering wine tasting.

Useful links

• San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority 
• SLO Car Free Programme

Healthcare in Arroyo Grande 

As is the case throughout the USA, healthcare in Arroyo Grande is excellent, with several facilities offering a wide range of specialities. Newcomers to the city can find comprehensive general, skilled nursing and surgical services offered by qualified healthcare practitioners.  

Part of the Dignity Health System, Arroyo Grande Community Hospital has consistently been voted among the top hospitals in the US. In addition to emergency, acute care, general health and surgical services, Arroyo Grande Community Hospital offers specialist women’s health care. Tenet Health Central Coast also has a presence in the city. 

Useful links

• Dignity Health System – Arroyo Grande Community Hospital
• Tenet Health Central Coast Primary and Speciality Care

Schools in Arroyo Grande 

As part of the largest school district in San Luis Obispo County, Arroyo Grande is home to top-rated public schools. These schools are part of the Lucia Mar Unified School District, and parents will be delighted to find that the district offers more than 10 K-12 schools and two institutions of higher education. 

Parents of children with special needs needn't worry, as Lucia Mar Unified School District caters to diverse students. Pacific View Academy offers individualised learning programmes, accommodating gifted students and those requiring additional physical, emotional, behavioural, and mental support. Trivium Charter School specialises in classical and project-based education, and admissions are based on a lottery system. 

Parents are also spoilt for choice when it comes to private education. While there are no international schools in the city, Arroyo Grande Montessori is one of the top private schools in the city that teaches using an alternative approach. Other private schools in the city educate children through a Catholic lens.

Useful links

• Lucia Mar Unified School District
• City of Arroyo Grande – List of Community Schools

Weather in Arroyo Grande 

The weather in Arroyo Grande is one of the most attractive aspects of living in the city. With a temperate Mediterranean climate, Arroyo Grande experiences comfortably cool weather most of the year. The Alaska Current brings a cooling effect to the city, making it attractive for growing wine grapes.  

Winter in Arroyo Grande is short-lived and is typically the wettest time of the year. Summer, from May to September, can come with water restrictions due to drought conditions. Still, summer highs often reach an enjoyable 77°F (25°C). 

Working in Arroyo Grande

Most people in Arroyo Grande work in the education, local government, or healthcare sectors. Arroyo Grande is close to California Polytechnic State University, while Arroyo Grande Community Hospital is also a major employer.  

As the city is also a popular wine destination, it is also possible for new arrivals to find work in the tourism and hospitality industry. The service industry is another substantial employer in the city.  

Accommodation in Arroyo Grande 

As Arroyo Grande is a car-dependent city, new arrivals are encouraged to choose a neighbourhood close to their workplaces and children's schools. Although the city has a relatively small population, traffic congestion can occur during peak hours. Fortunately, compromises are minimal when moving to Arroyo Grande. All the neighbourhoods in the city are within 10 minutes of a beach, and there is always a park nearby.

The housing supply in Arroyo Grande is diverse, from suburban houses equipped with all the modern conveniences to quaint historic homes. Luxury properties with ocean and vineyard views are also available, while new arrivals looking for a more rural lifestyle are also catered for, with large farming properties on offer.  

Aptly named 'the village', Arroyo Grande's downtown centre is a popular and enchanting neighbourhood. This small two-block area boasts well-preserved historical buildings, two public parks and antique stores.

Families moving to Arroyo Grande will appreciate the charms of Berry Gardens, conveniently located between the Village and Pismo Beach. Homes in Berry Gardens are luxurious, so prices in this suburb are slightly high. Oak Park Leisure Gardens boasts exceptional schools, restaurants, clubhouse, and sauna facilities, making it another fantastic neighbourhood for families.  

Young professionals and single newcomers who want easy access to the business district and recreational facilities can explore Fair Oaks. This suburb has exciting cafés and restaurants.

Lifestyle in Arroyo Grande

With picturesque beaches and charming vineyards, Arroyo Grande offers its residents a uniquely beautiful lifestyle. The city’s population is highly diverse, making it possible for all new arrivals to find something to see and do.  

Wine tasting will be high up on new arrivals’ list of must-do activities in Arroyo Grande. Oenophiles can visit Kynsi Winery, Talley Vineyards, or Peacock Cellars to sample the local fare. Horticulturists can also visit one of the city's many farms to learn about cultivation processes.  

Outdoor enthusiasts will also not be left wanting in Arroyo Grande. The city is home to the only remaining swinging bridge in California, which serves as a key tourist attraction. Arroyo Grande is also minutes away from Pismo Beach and Lopez Lake, where residents can swim, camp, surf, or fish. For those looking for retail therapy, the Village boasts many antique and speciality stores for all to enjoy. 

From fine dining options to casual family-friendly eateries, Arroyo Grande offers a wide range of farm-to-table restaurants serving delicious local and international cuisine and beverage options. As Arroyo Grande is a largely family-friendly destination, there are few options for nightlife here. Nevertheless, there are several bars and pubs available for newcomers to enjoy a local drink with friends.  

Summer is a fantastic time to be in Arroyo Grande, with free concerts at Heritage Square Park. The Harvest Festival and Parade in September is a highly anticipated event, where the whole family can explore and enjoy the city's agricultural heritage. The Egg Hunt and Festival and the Christmas Holiday Parade are also highlights in the city's annual event calendar.