Thousand Oaks
It is the largest city in the Conejo Valley with a consistent ranking as one of the safest cities in America. The city is nestled in the hills between the Oxnard Plain and the San Fernando Valley and is only 40 miles away from downtown Los Angeles. Many residents, however, work right here in Thousand Oaks, with leading employers including major pharmaceutical companies and corporate headquarters for some of the top corporations in the United States.
There are abundant opportunities to enjoy the wonderful Southern California climate in Thousand Oaks, with parks and trails across the city, as well as easy access to the beaches only 18 miles away in Malibu and 27 miles away in Ventura.
If you’re considering a move to Thousand Oaks, Lydia Gable Realty Group is the #1 team in Conejo Valley, and with 20+ years of local expertise and 500+ 5-Star Reviews we are ready to guide you through the nuances of our neighborhoods, and challenges of today’s real estate market. Call, text or email anytime, and check our blog: 5 Things Every Buyer Should Know Before Moving to Thousand Oaks.
Schools and Parks in Thousand Oaks
The Conejo Valley Unified School District operates schools in Thousand Oaks including:
Furthermore, there are many excellent private schools serving Thousand Oaks and the surrounding communities, including Oaks Christian High School and La Reina High School. Students can pursue their higher education at California Lutheran University.
Families and anyone who enjoys an outdoor lifestyle can enjoy the many parks operated by the Conejo Recreation & Park District, from the Thousand Oaks Community Center to the dozens of neighborhood parks that can be found using this mapping tool.
RESOURCES FOR THOUSAND OAKS
5 Things Every Home Buyer Needs to Know Before Moving to Thousand Oaks
Introduction: A Local’s Perspective
If you ask longtime residents what originally drew them to Thousand Oaks, you’ll hear a familiar theme — a true sense of community paired with space, safety, and access to everything that matters — all things that have become harder and harder to find in Southern California.
I’ve watched Thousand Oaks evolve into one of the most desirable places to live, all while maintaining the lowest crime rates in Ventura County (ranked the safest of the 16 large counties in California). Residents value their safety and security here.
Located between Malibu and the San Fernando Valley, Thousand Oaks sits in a sweet spot. You’re close enough to Los Angeles for work, entertainment, and major airports, yet far enough removed to enjoy open space, mountain views, quieter neighborhoods, and more for your money when it comes to real estate.
The city is made up of distinct pockets and neighborhoods — places like Lynn Ranch, Wildwood, Dos Vientos, Sunset Hills, Conejo Oaks, Newbury Park, and Lang Ranch — each with its own personality and price point (details in Section 3). The Lydia Gable Realty Group can help you navigate the nuances of each neighborhood, and home values within.
What surprises many buyers is how intentional yet relaxed life feels here. Parks are woven into neighborhoods. Schools anchor communities. Trails connect streets to open space. If you’re considering buying a home in Thousand Oaks — whether you’re relocating from out of state or within Southern California — here are 5 things home buyers should know before making the move…
1. Lifestyle & Local Vibe: Suburban Comfort with an Active, Outdoor Soul
The lifestyle in Thousand Oaks is best described as relaxed, active, and family-oriented — without feeling boring or isolated. While there are a handful of multi-million dollar horse properties here, Thousand Oaks is not a flashy city, and most residents prefer it that way. Instead, there’s a grounded, lived-in quality that appeals to families who value quality of life over constant hustle.
The median age in Thousand Oaks is approximately 44.5 years old. You’ll find a mix of longtime residents who raised their kids here, professionals commuting or working here at top corporate headquarters like Amgen, and retirees who chose to stay after falling in love with the community years ago. Over 50% of adult residents hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher level of education. Out-of-state buyers are flocking here as well, drawn by safety, space, warmer weather and access to nature.
Weekends in Thousand Oaks often revolve around the outdoors. The Conejo Valley is home to hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, many of which start right in residential neighborhoods. Wildwood Regional Park, Paradise Falls, and the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area are local favorites. It’s usual for neighbors to plan hikes, bike rides, or morning walks together.
Community events also play a big role in local culture. Concerts in the park, youth sports leagues, farmers markets, and seasonal festivals keep people connected. The Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza is a major hub for entertainment, bringing Broadway-style shows, concerts, and community performances right into the heart of the city.
There’s a strong sense of pride here. People care about their neighborhoods, support local businesses, and tend to stick around once they arrive. If you’re looking for a place where neighbors wave, kids play outside, and life feels manageable, Thousand Oaks delivers.
2. Schools & Education: A Major Draw for Home Buyers
One of the biggest reasons buyers choose Thousand Oaks is the quality of education. The award winning Conejo Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) consistently ranks among the top districts in California, and that reputation has a direct impact on home values and demand.
Public schools such as Lang Ranch Elementary School, Wildwood Elementary, Los Cerritos Middle School, Thousand Oaks High School, and Newbury Park High School are well known for strong academics, competitive athletics, and a wide range of extracurricular programs. Many schools offer advanced placement courses, STEM pathways, and award-winning music and arts programs.
Charter and private education options are also available, appealing to families looking for smaller class sizes or specialized learning environments. For private education, families often consider top-rated Oaks Christian which draws students from throughout the region.
School quality in Thousand Oaks doesn’t just affect families with children — it influences the entire housing market. Homes in top school zones tend to sell faster and command higher prices, even during slower market cycles. Buyers without kids often find that purchasing in a strong school area protects long-term value and resale potential.
If schools are a priority for you, it’s important to understand that school-district boundaries matter. Two homes just blocks apart can fall into different school zones, which is why working with a local expert at the Lydia Gable Realty Group is so important.
3. Real Estate Market: Neighborhood Insights Buyers Care About
One of the biggest advantages of buying a home in Thousand Oaks is the variety of neighborhoods — each with its own feel, housing inventory, and price dynamics. Unlike cookie-cutter suburbs, Thousand Oaks developed over several decades, which means buyers can choose between classic ranch homes, newer master-planned communities, gated enclaves, and low-maintenance condos. Below is a breakdown of some of the most searched and requested neighborhoods buyers ask about when relocating to Thousand Oaks.
Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley is an unincorporated community in Thousand Oaks, Ventura County, California. Bordered by Lake Sherwood, Newbury Park, and the Santa Monica Mountains, it is an affluent equestrian and ranch community, with single family houses on 20-acre or more parcels of land.
The area appeals to wealthy entrepreneurs, professionals, and celebrities who prefer the privacy of expansive gated properties, secluded from paparazzi. Tom Selleck and his family live in Hidden Valley on a 60-acre avocado ranch, formerly owned by Dean Martin. Other notable neighbors: Wayne Gretzky, Pete Sampras, Britney Spears, Amanda Bynes, and Tom Petty to name a few.
Adjacent Lake Sherwood is a gated community of luxury custom homes primarily built in the 90’s and 2000’s around the prestigious golf courses of Sherwood Country Club and Sherwood Lake Club. Although technically in the City of Thousand Oaks, school-aged children attend Westlake Elementary, Colina Middle School, and Westlake High School. Please see our Westlake Village community page for details on Lake Sherwood.
Lynn Ranch
Lynn Ranch is known for its wide streets, mature oak trees, and larger lots. Most homes here were built in the 1950s–1970s and are primarily single-story ranch-style properties, often sitting on half-acre or larger parcels. Many homes have been extensively remodeled, expanded, or rebuilt, making this neighborhood especially appealing to buyers who value privacy, outdoor space, and a more custom-home feel. The area attracts buyers looking for character, horse properties, or room to grow.
Conejo Oaks
Conejo Oaks offers a central Thousand Oaks location with convenient access to shopping, parks, and schools. Homes are generally from the 1960s–1970s and include both single-story and two-story floor plans. Lot sizes are moderate to large, and the neighborhood is popular with families who want proximity to schools and sports fields. Buyer demand here remains strong due to affordability relative to other parts of the city and its walkable, established feel.
Wildwood
Wildwood is highly sought after for its proximity to Wildwood Regional Park and Paradise Falls. Homes here were mostly built in the 1970s–1980s and include traditional single-family residences with generous yards. The lifestyle is a major draw — residents can walk directly from their homes onto hiking and biking trails. Buyers who prioritize outdoor access, community vibe, and resale stability often gravitate toward Wildwood.
Lang Ranch
Lang Ranch sits in the northern part of Thousand Oaks and is known for larger homes, newer construction, and a quieter, more suburban feel. Many properties were built in the late 1990s through early 2000s and feature higher ceilings, three-car garages, and larger floor plans. This area appeals to move-up buyers and families looking for space, views, and strong school designations.
Newbury Park
Newbury Park offers a slightly more relaxed pace with a mix of older and newer homes, including single-story ranch properties, hillside homes, and planned developments. Buyers often appreciate its proximity to nature, lower density in certain pockets, and strong sense of community. It’s especially popular with buyers who want access to trails and a bit more breathing room. (See full Community Page HERE)
Dos Vientos
Dos Vientos is one of Thousand Oaks’ most recognizable master-planned communities. Developed primarily in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it features newer construction, parks, pools, greenbelts, and top-performing schools. Home styles range from townhomes and condos to large single-family homes, some with mountain views. HOAs are common but well-managed, and many buyers relocating from out of state appreciate the neighborhood’s cohesive design and amenities.
Condos, Townhomes & Gated Communities
For buyers seeking lower maintenance, Thousand Oaks offers well-located condos and townhomes near shopping centers, parks, and major commuter routes. Gated communities and luxury enclaves are scattered throughout the city, often in hillside locations with views. These options appeal to downsizers, professionals, and buyers prioritizing lock-and-leave convenience.
Across all neighborhoods, well-priced homes in desirable school zones continue to attract strong interest. Understanding micro-neighborhood differences, HOA structures, and long-term resale trends is key — and where local expertise from the Lydia Gable Realty Group truly matters.
4. Commute & Connectivity: Location Location Location
Thousand Oaks offers excellent connectivity while maintaining a sense of separation from the congestion of Los Angeles. Major freeways like the 101 and 23 provide access to San Fernando Valley, Malibu, Ventura, and Santa Barbara.
Traffic is lighter in the Conejo Valley compared to San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles. Commute times vary depending on direction and time of day, but many residents find the drive manageable. For those who work remotely or have flexible schedules, the location feels especially ideal. While Thousand Oaks is primarily car-centric, some neighborhoods offer walkable access to parks, schools, and local shops.
Locally, the area is well-served by hospitals, medical offices, and specialty care, including Los Robles Regional Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente.
Thousand Oaks is home to Amgen’s global headquarters, so buyers relocating for Amgen often prioritize Thousand Oaks neighborhoods with newer construction, community amenities, and easy freeway access. Neighborhoods such as Lang Ranch, Dos Vientos, and Wildwood are especially popular with Amgen employees due to their short commute times, strong schools, and access to trails and recreation.
For cyclists and runners, dedicated paths and trails provide safe, scenic routes throughout the city of Thousand Oaks, reinforcing the area’s active lifestyle.
Los Angeles International Airport and Hollywood Burbank Airport are both accessible (30 to 45 miles), making travel relatively convenient.
Shopping and daily errands are easy. Popular grocery options include Whole Foods Market, Trader Joe’s, Sprouts and Target. There are several large shopping centers with the most popular being The Oaks Mall (indoor), and The Lakes (outdoor). See more about Thousand Oaks’ local hot spots in the next section.
5. Local Hot Spots: Where You’ll Actually Spend Time
One of the best ways to understand Thousand Oaks is by looking at where locals actually gather - places that become part of everyday routines.
Coffee Shops
Popular coffee spots consistently highlighted by locals include Five07 Coffee Bar, Ragamuffin Coffee Roasters, and Prospect Coffee Roasters, and the new Honey Cup Coffeehouse. These cafés are more than just places to grab a latte — they’re informal meeting spots where neighbors catch up, students study, and professionals work remotely.
Restaurants & Shopping Favorites
Dining in Thousand Oaks blends comfort and quality. Longtime favorites and award-recognized spots, like BASTA, or Mastro’s Steakhouse often surface in online reviews. Residents appreciate dining out without battling heavy traffic or long waits.
The Oaks Mall (indoor), features department stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, Pottery Barn, the Apple Store, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, as well as a movie theater. The Lakes (outdoor) features lifestyle favorites like Sunlife Organics and world-renowned Erewhon Market.
Golf Courses & Country Clubs
Golf remains a major lifestyle component in Thousand Oaks. Los Robles Greens, is a favorite for both casual and competitive players. Nearby private country clubs also attract residents looking for golf, tennis, dining, and social events all in one setting.
Pickleball, Tennis & Recreation
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, and Thousand Oaks has embraced it! Courts at Conejo Creek North Park, Rancho Conejo Playfields, and Ventu Park (in Newbury Park) are regularly active. Thousand Oaks also boasts a luxury indoor facility, the Pickleball Athletic Club, for those who prefer playing in the shade. Tennis courts, youth sports leagues, hiking groups, and city recreation programs also make it easy for residents of all ages to stay active in Thousand Oaks.
Arts, Entertainment & Community Events
The Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza is a cultural anchor, hosting Broadway-style productions, concerts, and community performances. Seasonal outdoor concerts, movies in the park, and city-hosted events further strengthen the sense of community and give residents reasons to stay local rather than drive elsewhere.
Insider tip: many of the most-loved experiences in Thousand Oaks aren’t flashy or overhyped. They’re the repeat visits — the same coffee shop, the same trail, the same park — that quietly turn a city into a home.
Is Thousand Oaks Right for You?
Thousand Oaks isn’t about chasing trends — it’s about building a life. It’s a city where people stay, raise families, invest in their homes, and enjoy a sense of stability that’s increasingly rare.
Ready to see what life in Thousand Oaks could look like? Explore the latest homes for sale by connecting with Lydia Gable Realty Group, your local real estate experts who know every street, school, and sunset view in town. We can’t wait to meet you!
