Moving to Milpitas

Welcome to the thrill of discovering your future home in the effervescent city of Milpitas, CA. A city jam-packed with quintessential Californian charm and dynamism, nestled right into the high-tech heart of Silicon Valley. This comprehensive Milpitas relocation guide is designed to unravel the process of moving and deliver a seamless transitioning experience. From navigating the Milpitas housing market to exploring top-rated spots for fun, we have got you covered. So buckle up and embrace the adventure of moving to Milpitas; where western sunshine meets metro hustle in a symphony of liveability.

Moving to Milpitas, CA landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Milpitas

1. Sunny Californian Lifestyle is a given!

Moving to Milpitas, CA, means embracing the warm, sunny Californian lifestyle. With a mild, Mediterranean climate year round, Milpitas gets about 265 sunny days annually - far more than the national average. This lends itself beautifully to outdoor activities and encourages a lifestyle of fitness and health. So, grab your sunblock, put on your flip flops, and enjoy the warmth!

2. Shopaholics, Beware!

Milpitas is home to the Great Mall, the largest indoor outlet and value shopping destination in Northern California. With over 200 stores, it's a shopping haven that attracts not only locals but also visitors from around the Bay Area. So, hold onto your wallets, 'cause plenty of retail therapy awaits you!

3. A Quiet Nook in the Heart of Silicon Valley

Located in Santa Clara County, Milpitas is a small city by California standards, with a little over 70,000 residents. But despite its quaintness, it's nestled right in the heart of Silicon Valley, with tech giants such as Cisco Systems and SanDisk headquartered here. Perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the thrill of Silicon Valley hustle while residing in a quiet, community-centric neighborhood.

4. Unleash Your Inner Foodie

Arguably less known, but Milpitas packs quite the culinary punch! This suburban city boasts a cultural melting pot of cuisines. With a significant Asian American population, the city is peppered with Vietnamese Pho houses, Szechuan hotpots, Korean BBQ joints, and authentic Indian restaurants. You'll also have easy access to classic American diners, pizzerias, and Mexican taquerias. Time to channel your inner foodie!

5. Believe in the Bigfoot?

Now, this one's a bit quirky but stay with us. Do you know that Milpitas has its own local cryptozoology legend? Yes, tales of the "Bigfoot of the Santa Cruz Mountains" had been circulating around the town for decades. Some residents even swear they've seen the mythical creature. While we can't guarantee a sighting, the folklore adds a touch of mystery and conversation starter to your new hometown.

6. A City With a View

Last but not the least, something many people don't realize is that Milpitas offers some of the most beautiful views in all of the Silicon Valley! Whether it's the rolling hills of Ed Levin County Park or the panoramic city vistas from Monument Peak, these picturesque sights are postcard-worthy. So, don't forget to bring your camera along when moving to Milpitas!

Wow! I'm sure all these fascinating things to know make you even more excited about moving to Milpitas, California. Grab onto this opportunity with both hands and discover all that this city has to offer. Don't forget to enjoy the sun, indulge in retail therapy, savor ethnic cuisines, believe in Bigfoot, and lose yourself in breathtaking views. Welcome to Milpitas - your new hometown!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Milpitas

Pros of Living in Milpitas

High Quality of Life

Milpitas is known for its high standard of living, including premium healthcare systems, exceptional educational institutions, and a wide range of recreational and leisure facilities. These attributes make it an appealing destination for families and professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.

Strategic Location

Milpitas is strategically located at the heart of Silicon Valley, being close to tech giants like Google, Apple, and Facebook. This proximity offers numerous job opportunities and opens doorways to the world of innovation and technology.

Vibrant Community Diversity

The city enjoys a diverse cultural scene due to its blend of various nationalities. This diversity enriches the local culture with various festivals, foods, and languages, promoting an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance.

Natural Beauty

Milpitas is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the Monument Peak and Ed Levin County Park, offering residents the chance to engage in outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

Public Transportation

With a number of public transportation options, getting around Milpitas is fairly easy. This includes an extensive bus network, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system, and multiple highway connections.

Cons of Living in Milpitas

High Cost of Living

As with many areas in Silicon Valley, Milpitas has a relatively high cost of living, with housing being the most significant factor. This can make it difficult for individuals or families on a lower income to afford a good living standard.

Traffic Congestion

As it's a central hub for economic activities and residential living, traffic congestion can be problematic, especially during peak hours. This can add to commute times, resulting in a longer work day for many residents.

Air Quality

The city sometimes experiences poor air quality due to its location within the Bay Area. This can be exacerbated by nearby wildfires or pollution, which might be a concern for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

Noise Pollution

Being close to the Mineta San Jose International Airport, noise pollution can be a significant issue in some parts of Milpitas. This can disrupt the peaceful environment, especially if you are sensitive to noise.

Lack of Nightlife

If you're someone who enjoys a bustling nightlife, Milpitas might not be the best choice for you. With a more suburban atmosphere, the city's nightlife is more subdued compared to larger cities like San Francisco or San Jose.

Modern day picture of Milpitas, CA highlighting pros and cons of living in Milpitas, CA

Is Milpitas a Good Place to Live?


Milpitas, CA is a great place to live because it not only offers a pleasant climate and stunning natural beauty, but it is also home to various recreational parks and high-quality schools. In addition, its close proximity to Silicon Valley provides ample job opportunities in the tech industry while its diverse food scene and vibrant community events ensure there's always something fun to do or explore. Truly, Milpitas, CA is a charming blend of suburban ease and big city opportunities making it an ideal place to live in.



What Is Milpitas Famous For?

The Great Mall of the Bay Area

As one of the largest indoor outlet shopping malls in Northern California, the Great Mall of the Bay Area is a shopaholic's paradise. Over 200 stores, including top brands like Coach, Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, H&M, Forever 21, Abercrombie & Fitch Outlet, and Tommy Hilfiger Company Store, cater to visitors from around the world.

Ed R. Levin County Park

This park in Milpitas is the largest in the county and offers everything from hiking and picnicking to hand gliding and fishing. With beautifully preserved open spaces, flower-covered meadows, creek crossings and stunning views, Ed R. Levin County Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hangar 18 Indoor Climbing Gym

Featuring over 12,000 square feet of climbing surface and walls that reach up to 40 feet in height, Hangar 18 Indoor Climbing Gym is the perfect place for rock climbing enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a newbie, this gym's impressive and varied terrain promises hours of fun and challenging climbs.

McCandless Park

McCandless Park is renowned for its state-of-the-art, inclusive play area that caters to kids of all abilities. Its interactive, accessible and sensory-rich equipment not only make it a hit among kids, but also an important venue conducive to fostering inclusive play and growth among the city's youngsters.

Capital building of Milpitas, CA in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

The property tax rate in Milpitas, CA, as of 2023, stands at 0.77%, which is relatively lower than the average property tax rate across the United States of 1.07%. This lower rate may offer residents in Milpitas significant savings annually when compared to other high-tax regions.

Sales Tax

As of 2023, the combined sales tax rate for Milpitas, California, is 9.25%. This rate is higher than the national median combined sales tax rate of 6.9%, making the sales tax in Milpitas relatively higher compared to most other US locations.

Income Tax

Milpitas residents, like all Californians, fall under a state progressive income tax system with rates between 1% and 13.3% as of 2023. California generally has one of the highest state-level income taxes in the country, which could potentially impact the disposable income of Milpitas residents compared to residents in states with lower income tax rates.


Housing Market

The housing market in Milpitas, CA, surpasses other parts of the US in terms of average housing costs. The median home value in this area stands at approximately $1.16 million, well above the nation's median. Rental prices also trend higher, with the average rent about $2,977 per month. Despite the steep costs, Milpitas offers a costly but stable market for investors, with consistent home value appreciation. Renters and buyers considering Milpitas should prepare for competition, as properties typically receive multiple offers, sell around list price and go pending in around 16 days.


Cost of Living

The cost of living in Milpitas, CA is significantly higher than the national average. The major factors contributing to this are housing costs, accessibility to high-paying tech jobs, and its proximity to the city of San Jose and the Silicon Valley. Grocery, healthcare, and transportation expenses also add to the increased cost of living. Comparatively, Milpitas is more expensive than many other U.S. cities, but it falls within the same range as its neighboring cities in the Bay Area.


Weather & Natural Disasters

Milpitas, CA, nestled in Silicon Valley, experiences a mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average temperatures typically range from 38degF in the chillier months to 82degF during the peak of summer. The city receives approximately 15 inches of rainfall per year, predominantly occurring between November and April. Milpitas is also acutely aware of the potential for natural disasters, primarily earth tremors and earthquakes due to its location near multiple fault lines, including the infamous San Andreas. In addition, the city occasionally faces wildfires during the hotter, drier months. Though these threats exist, robust disaster management processes in place ensure that they're well managed. Despite these challenges, the weather in Milpitas is generally pleasant, making it an attractive location for both living and vacationing.

Typical weather in Milpitas, CA

Economy & Job Market

* The technology and engineering industry

* The retail industry

* The education industry

* The healthcare and social assistance industry

* The manufacturing industry

Peek-a-boo! Welcome to Milpitas, CA, a hidden gem tucked within the radiant Silicon Valley, that vibrates with the hum of Big Tech and blossoming businesses. Since stepping out of its agricultural past, Milpitas has been channeling its inner geek, thriving in the tech and engineering playground like a kid in a candy shop! Its economy has boomed with the rise of the Silicon Valley, and today it's home to many high-tech companies such as Cisco Systems and SanDisk. However, life in Milpitas isn't all microchips and motherboards; retail, education, healthcare and social assistance, and manufacturing make up the rest of the economic jigsaw puzzle. That's right, Milpitas is much more than meets the eye!

Thinking of packing your bags and moving to Milpitas? Bazinga! You're in for a treat in the job market. Sporting a lower unemployment rate than the US average, Milpitas says "Bring it on!" to job hunters. The tech and engineering sector is undoubtedly the star of the show, offering an array of opportunities - they are literally coding dreams into reality here! But don't worry, the retail, healthcare, and education industries put up a fierce fight, also offering promising job prospects. Just a hint, the city's Great Mall, the largest enclosed mall in Northern California, is a gold mine for retail job seekers. So, whether you are a tech wizard, retail guru, health professional or educator, Milpitas has got a job with your name on it. Isn't it just awesome?


Traffic and Transportation

Getting around Milpitas, CA is a breeze, whether you're a fan of wheels, rails, or wings! Owing to Silicon Valley's buzzing nature, the average commute time is around 30 minutes. Yep, enough time to listen to your favorite podcast episode! Don't have a car? No problemo! Public transportation has you covered. The city is well-served by Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) with buses and light rail systems, ferrying you smoothly across town.

For those with a certain flying fancy, airplanes aren't out of the question. Genius, right? Take a short drive to the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport and voila, the world is at your wings. Oh and there's the San Francisco and Oakland Airports too, each just under an hour's drive. So buckle up folks, in Milpitas you're in for a transport treat!

What is the traffic like in Milpitas, CA?

Best Neighborhoods in Milpitas

1. Pines

The Pines has an irresistible charm, making it an ideal place to set up your abode. It boasts beautifully maintained parks, easy access to public transport, and a serene environment that exudes tranquility. The neighborhood is adorned with lush green landscapes, making it perfect for nature lovers. The convenient grocery stores, coffee shops and restaurants add to the vitality of Pines. On top of that, residents of Pines rarely worry about safety issues thanks to its secured neighborhood vibe.

2. Sunnyhills

For those who appreciate a distinct community atmosphere should consider Sunnyhills. This beautiful, well-established neighborhood comes with unique houses that ooze character and charm! Known for its renowned schools, and intriguing local parks ideal for family fun, it has become a top hub for families moving to Milpitas. A key highlight of Sunnyhills is the culturally rich scene, hosting various local festivals and events through the year.

3. Milpitas Town Center

Welcome to the beating heart of Milpitas! Milpitas Town Center offers a dynamic blend of residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces. Its central location makes conveniences just steps away. Despite being the hustle and bustle part of town, it still maintains a sense of peace and residential warmth. Boutiques, theaters, eateries, supermarkets, you name it! This urbanized neighborhood gives you an active and vibrant lifestyle without the drawbacks of big city living.

4. Hillcrest

If you're looking for unmatched views of Milpitas, then Hillcrest is your beacon. Situated in the southeastern part of the city, this elevated territory gives a panoramic view of the city and beyond. The hilly streets and beautiful homes blend seamlessly with the scenic nature. It's a tranquil area with less hustle and bustle but still offers proximity to top-rated schools and parks. Hillcrest is a perfect neighborhood for those yearning for a peaceful, laid-back lifestyle with a touch of luxury.

5. Berryessa

A neighborhood for the young and the young at heart! Berryessa is a vibrant neighborhood adorned with a variety of recreational activities. It's home to some of the best parks in Milpitas which are hub to sports activities, children's playgrounds, picnic spots and walking trails. Proximity to schools and universities makes it a preferred neighborhood for students. In addition, it boasts a wide array of eateries serving international cuisines. It is also a prime neighborhood for shopping enthusiasts with everything from small boutiques to large shopping centers.

So, there you have it. Milpitas isn't a one-size-fits-all city - it truly has something for everyone. Each neighborhood has a unique charm and personality of its own, with a wide array of amenities and cultural offerings. Choose the one that resonates best with your lifestyle preferences and you'll surely feel right at home. Welcome to Milpitas!

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Things to Do

Welcome to Milpitas, CA - the future might just be the new Silicon Valley. With its compelling mix of thriving businesses, high-quality schools, and entertaining leisure activities, Milpitas is a captivating place to settle down. Here's a fun list of the top 7 things to do when you move to Milpitas.

1. Explore Ed R. Levin County Park

Get ready for an outdoor adventure at the Ed R. Levin County Park. Covering over 1500 acres, this park is the perfect location for hiking, paragliding, horseback riding, and fishing. The park also has picnic areas ideal for a family day out in the sun. Make sure to follow the Monument Peak trail. Reaching the peak rewards you with a breathtaking view of Silicon Valley.

2. Visit the Great Mall

Situated right in the city center, the Great Mall is Northern California's largest indoor mall. With over 200 stores, this shopping haven is a paradise for fashion lovers and bargain hunters alike. The mall also homes a variety of eateries and a movie theater, meaning you have plenty to do for the whole day.

3. Take a Culture Trip to the Milpitas Historical Society

Embrace the rich history of Milpitas at the Milpitas Historical Society. This museum offers fascinating insights into the city's past, curating a range of exhibits devoted to Native American history, the Spanish mission period, and the area's transformation during the tech boom.

4. Go Unconventional with Indoor Skydiving

Get your adrenaline rushing with an indoor skydiving session at iFLY San Francisco Bay. For those who have always dreamed of flying but are not thrilled about jumping from an airplane, this is the perfect solution. No prior experience is necessary as you receive training and assistance from experienced instructors.

5. Skate It Up at Milpitas Skate Park

Milpitas Skate Park, a local hidden gem, is the perfect venue for skaters of all skill levels. Whether you're a pro or simply learning the ropes, the park provides features for everyone - from ramps and rails to ledges and stair sets.

6. Crack the Code at Beat The Lock Escape Room

Test your problem-solving skills at Beat The Lock Escape Room. Teams are challenged to embroil in cleverly crafted mysteries that involve puzzles, scavenger hunts, and clues. A unique and one-of-a-kind experience in Milpitas, this is an activity that you simply can't miss out on.

7. Relax in the Hidden Lake Park

This is truly a hidden gem in the city. Tucked away from the main roads, Hidden Lake Park is worth the visit, offering beautiful lake views, miles of trails, sports courts, and picnic areas. Whether you're aspiring for a serene jog, a family picnic, or a serious game of basketball, this park has you covered.

In conclusion, Milpitas, CA is more than a booming tech haven. It's a city that offers a blend of history, culture, and leisure activities. With an array of things to do, from outdoor exploration to shopping and unique experiences, you'll never have a dull moment in this vibrant city. Enjoy your new life here, in Milpitas!

Things to do in Milpitas, CA?

Find Movers for Your Milpitas Relocation

As the final chapter of your Milpitas, CA relocation journey begins, it's vital to select a reliable moving service. Great Guys Moving simplifies this process by connecting you with industry-leading movers renowned for their quality service and affordable rates. Our network of movers are all licensed and insured for your peace of mind. With just a few simple details about your relocation needs, we can provide fast and effortless quotes. Start the next exciting phase of your life in Milpitas with a helping hand from Great Guys Moving. Promptly request your free moving quote today and experience the simplicity and ease for yourself.

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