When most people think of Ventura County real estate, they picture iconic surf towns, family-friendly suburbs, and hillside estates overlooking the Pacific. But beyond the well-known communities, there are pockets of neighborhoods with charm, history, and value that even some longtime locals overlook. For buyers who want to escape bidding wars in Los Angeles or Santa Barbara while still enjoying a coastal California lifestyle, these hidden gems of Ventura County offer incredible opportunities.
At Realty ONE Group Summit, our team knows these neighborhoods inside and out. Let’s take a closer look at the spots locals love — but rarely brag about.
Midtown Ventura: Coastal Cool Without the Price Tag
While Ventura’s downtown and hillside neighborhoods get most of the attention, Midtown Ventura is quietly becoming one of the most sought-after places to live.
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Lifestyle: Walkable streets, eclectic coffee shops, and a mix of vintage California bungalows with modern remodels.
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Real Estate: Homes here are typically more affordable than those in Ventura’s Pierpont or hillside neighborhoods, with the added bonus of larger lots.
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Why Buyers Love It: It’s minutes from the beach, near Ventura College, and retains a laid-back, authentic vibe.
👉 Explore current Ventura homes for sale.
Old Town Camarillo: Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience
Most people know Camarillo for its outlet mall, but Old Town Camarillo offers a completely different experience. This revitalized area blends small-town character with modern amenities.
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Lifestyle: Locally owned shops, walkable streets, and community events like farmers markets.
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Real Estate: Quaint single-family homes, mid-century properties, and even multi-unit investment opportunities.
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Why Buyers Love It: The neighborhood has strong schools, easy freeway access, and a growing dining scene.
According to City of Camarillo economic reports, this corridor has seen steady investment, boosting property values long term.
Channel Islands Harbor (Oxnard): Coastal Living Without Santa Monica Prices
Imagine waking up with your boat docked in your backyard. That’s daily life in Channel Islands Harbor, one of Ventura County’s most underrated coastal neighborhoods.
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Lifestyle: Waterfront dining, kayaking, paddleboarding, and harbor festivals.
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Real Estate: A mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes directly on the water — at a fraction of the cost of Marina del Rey.
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Why Buyers Love It: Direct beach access and the rare chance to own a dockside property in Southern California without multimillion-dollar price tags.
👉 Browse Oxnard waterfront homes.
Meiners Oaks (Ojai): Artsy and Affordable Ojai Living
Ojai is known worldwide as a wellness destination, but it’s also known for high home prices. Just a few minutes from downtown Ojai, Meiners Oaks provides a quieter, more affordable option.
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Lifestyle: Artistic, nature-driven, and community-focused, with yoga studios, cafes, and boutique shops.
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Real Estate: Small cottages, ranch-style homes, and properties with larger lots perfect for gardens or small orchards.
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Why Buyers Love It: You get Ojai’s unique vibe without Ojai’s price premium.
The Ojai Valley Visitors Bureau highlights Meiners Oaks as a top destination for creatives and outdoor lovers — a fact reflected in growing real estate demand.
Newbury Park (Thousand Oaks): Suburban Comfort with Mountain Views
For those seeking top schools and suburban convenience, Newbury Park in Thousand Oaks is a perfect hidden gem.
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Lifestyle: Surrounded by hiking trails, open space preserves, and family-friendly parks.
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Real Estate: A mix of traditional single-family homes, townhomes, and newer developments with modern upgrades.
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Why Buyers Love It: Strong school ratings, low crime, and easy access to both Ventura beaches and Los Angeles job hubs.
👉 See the latest Thousand Oaks listings.
Why These Neighborhoods Matter for Buyers and Investors
In today’s market, finding value isn’t just about price — it’s about spotting growth before everyone else does. These Ventura County neighborhoods check the boxes for:
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Long-Term Appreciation: Areas with revitalization projects and growing demand.
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Lifestyle Appeal: Walkability, culture, and coastal proximity.
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Accessibility: Easy commutes to Los Angeles while maintaining Ventura County’s relaxed pace.
Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a vacation property, or a long-term investment, these neighborhoods deserve a closer look.
Final Thoughts
Ventura County is filled with neighborhoods that balance lifestyle, affordability, and potential — if you know where to look. The big names like Westlake Village or Pierpont Beach will always attract attention, but the real opportunities are often tucked away in places like Midtown Ventura, Old Town Camarillo, or Meiners Oaks.
At Realty ONE Group Summit, we specialize in helping buyers uncover these hidden gems and guiding sellers on how to market them effectively to a wider audience.
👉 Ready to explore Ventura County’s best-kept secrets? Contact our team today to start your search.
| Neighborhood | Median Home Price* | Avg Price / Sq Ft* | Days on Market* | Key Trend Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midtown Ventura | ≈ $1,030,000 (Redfin) | ~$641 / sq ft (Redfin) | ~61.5 days (Redfin) | Modest appreciation (~0.7% YoY); values relatively stable. (Redfin) |
| Old Town, Camarillo | ~$ 852,000 (Redfin) | ~$579 / sq ft (Redfin) | ~54 days (Redfin) | Prices up ~7.2% YoY; competitive market. (Redfin) |
| Camarillo (city-wide) | ~$ 906,970 (Zillow) | — | ~20 days to pending offers (Zillow) | Essentially flat over past year (-0.2%); good demand. (Zillow) |
