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What BestPlaces Users Say about Monterey
In Monterey, California, residents enjoy a beautiful coastal location with a mild climate and plenty of recreational activities. However, as with any place, there are both positive and negative experiences that people have shared about living there. BestPlaces.net has compiled a variety of user reviews from those who currently live or have lived in Monterey, giving a well-rounded portrayal of the city's livability. Here are some excerpts from four different reviews that highlight the various aspects of living in Monterey.
1. From "John D.": "Monterey is a small, diverse, and welcoming community. There's always something to do, from hiking in the nearby parks to enjoying the local restaurants and nightlife. The weather is fantastic, and the ocean views are breathtaking. Overall, I've loved my time living here."
2. From "Samantha R.": "I've called Monterey home for the past 10 years, and while the scenery is gorgeous, the cost of living is a constant struggle. Housing prices are sky-high, and the job market is competitive. It's a great place to visit, but I wouldn't recommend living here long-term unless you have a good income."
3. From "Michael L.": "I've lived in Monterey my whole life, and while it's a beautiful place, it can feel pretty isolated at times. The small town vibe can get old, and the lack of diversity can be frustrating. However, the people are generally friendly, and the community has a strong sense of togetherness."
4. From "Emily T.": "Monterey has been a great place for me to raise my family. The schools are top-notch, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep us entertained. The only downside is that the cost of living can be high, but we've found ways to make it work. Overall, I would highly recommend living here."
based on 21 ReviewsGet to know Monterey with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Monterey
Here or Exit California - 1/25/2017
The Monterey city area is an excellent place to live and one of the few California locales where it's relatively safe to raise a family. If I could no longer live here I would leave California.
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If you're not a millionaire good luck living here - 12/31/2013
I grew up on the Monterey Peninsula and had to leave to climb out of poverty. The median income is $35,000 and outside of the military, the jobs are mostly service (hospitality, etc.). The average home price is about $600,000 or higher. Rent for a studio apartment is $1,100 to $1,500, depending on location.
The only way to live comfortably in Monterey, Pacific Grove or Carmel is to have bought a house in the 1960s, like my parents did, or bring your money with you, like the millionaires from LA and Silicon Valley. They bought second homes in the area, which sit vacant for most of the year, but it saves the hassle of having to make hotel reservations when you want to take your private jet for a spur-of-the-moment round of golf at Pebble Beach.
If you're looking for Exhibit A of the disappearing middle class, it's
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How wealthy are we talking about? - 9/13/2012
My husband and I are just crazy about Monterey. I wonder if we take housing expenses (mortgage or rent) out of the picture, is Monterey still a very expensive city to live?
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Not a great place if you're single - 7/15/2012
Most people here seem to be married and wealthy, or here temporarily for the military. I couldn't think of less desirable area to live for a mid 20's single male. Other places I've lived recently are Walnut Creek and San Luis Obispo, both awesome places.
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Monterey Peninsula Area - 1/31/2012
I have lived here for 9 years and love the clean air and beautiful nature but I don't feel deeply connected to people here. It is a retired, family kinda of environment. Also lots of old money and family owned business. Not very stimulating but has it's good points one of them being lots of silence and peace.
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One of the best Cities we have lived in. - 2/3/2011
Monterey is one of the best cities that we lived in. Although expensive. The people are friendly and helpful. Great climate all year around, never too hot, never too cold. This is a very old city with great
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WORTH IT? - 5/23/2010
I'VE LIVED IN THE MONTEREY AREA FOR ABOUT 14 YEARS. IT IS UNDENIABLY A BEAUTIFUL PLACE, NOT QUITE AS UNIQUE AS LOCAL BOOSTERS SAY IT IS, BUT IT DOES HAVE AN EXCELLENT VIBE. BUT THE COSTS OF LIVING, IN PARTICULAR HOUSING, MAKE IT A DIFFICULT PLACE TO MOVE TO, OR TO STAY IN BEYOND ONE'S WORKING YEARS. IN FACT, MOST OF OUR PROFESSIONALS NOW SEEK AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN OUTLYING AREAS, INCLUDING SALINAS, WHICH I WOULD ADD HAS A UNFORTUNATE AND OVERDRAMATIZED POOR REPUTATION (CRIME.) EVEN WITH THE COLLAPSE OF THE HOUSING BUBBLE, REAL ESTATE IS BARELY AFFORDABLE UNLESS ONE CAN COMPETE WITH SYNDICATES AT FORECLOSURE SALES.
MONTEREY, WITH ITS FELLOW PENINSULA TOWNS OF PACIFIC GROVE, PEBBLE BEACH AND CARMEL (ALSO SEASIDE - BUT MONTEREY TYPES KIND OF LOOK DOWN ON SEASIDERS) PROVIDE AN EXTREMELY SAFE AND QUIET LIVING STYLE. HOWEVER, IT IS CLOSE ENOUGH (TWO HOUR DRIVE OR 20 MINUTE FLIGHT) TO THE MOST COSMOPOLITAN CITY ON THE WEST COAST, SAN FRANCISCO. SO, LIVING IN MONTEREY ALLOWS ONE
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California Living - 5/20/2010
Central Coast is beautiful with sea meeting mountains, clean air and nature is bountiful. Wonderful place to live if you have an income over
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Great Place to Visit - 2/18/2010
Monterey's main source of income is derived from the local tourist industry seconded by the military bases, and the fishing industry. Schools here are a couple of years behind most and budget cuts in the district county and state over the last ten years are sending public education south. Outside of the military population, the majority of residents here are over the age of 70. Housing prices are some of the highest in the nation and SLOWLY decreasing. Most people here are retired, in the military, or supporting the retired population who live here or are visiting. Because Monterey is just a few minutes drive to Salinas, the Salad Bowl to the World, food prices here are some of the most affordable in the nation (and the freshest). There is a farmer's market within 15 miles any day of the week. Public transportation is easy to navigate and free a good part of the year. Monterey Bay, Big Sur, and the Pacific Ocean makes this one of the most scenic areas in the world. Year-round temps
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