Living in Simi Valley: A Neighborhood Guide

Simi Valley sits in the southeast corner of Ventura County, ringed by hills and open space. For many buyers it offers a balance that is hard to find closer to Los Angeles: room to breathe, a strong sense of community and a manageable drive to the San Fernando Valley.

Getting around

The Ronald Reagan Freeway (State Route 118) runs east to west through the valley and connects to the San Fernando Valley and the 405 and 5 freeways. Metrolink also serves Simi Valley, which some commuters prefer for trips into Los Angeles.

Outdoors and recreation

Trails are a big part of daily life here. The surrounding hills offer hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, and the local parks district maintains parks, sports fields and community centers across the city.

• Hillside trails with views across the valley
• Neighborhood parks and sports leagues for all ages
• Equestrian-friendly areas on the edges of town

Things to see

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum draws visitors from around the world. Closer to home, shopping and dining are spread across the city, from the Simi Valley Town Center to neighborhood centers along the main corridors.

What to look for in a home here

Simi Valley has a wide mix of housing: established single-family neighborhoods, newer planned communities, townhomes and condos, and some properties with larger lots. As you compare homes, pay attention to:

1. School boundaries, which can change from one street to the next
2. HOA rules and dues in planned communities
3. Lot orientation, slope and views
4. Proximity to the freeway if you commute daily

Every part of the valley has its own character, and the best way to understand it is to spend time there. Browse Simi Valley homes for sale to see what is on the market now. If you are curious about a specific neighborhood, ask; it is one of the best parts of the job.