Following months of saving, it’s about time you begin the search for your ideal home in the southern end of the San Francisco Bay Area. Or maybe, you’re considering moving to the renowned Silicon Valley in search of greener pastures. Now to the million-dollar question, where do you start?
Sure, there are several towns and cities to choose from with regard to either case, but none can rival the splendor of San Jose. Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, this vibrant metropolis has plenty to swank about, from world-renowned companies to top-tier schools, world-class amenities, breathtaking views, and gourmet cuisine.
And having been in business here for 25 years as a paving contractor, we can provide excellent insight on whether becoming the newest resident of San Jose, CA, is worthwhile. So, buckle up, and let’s find out!
Moving to the heart of Silicon Valley means moving to a city brimming with job opportunities – Lord knows that’s the primary reason behind the city’s surge in population over the years. In fact, as of March 2023, San Jose’s unemployment rate stood at 3.30%, among the lowest in the US.
The city’s average annual base salary lies at $110,000, which is impressive by all means. However, it is important to note that this sum may not be enough to get you loads of luxuries, as the cost of living here can prove steep, to say the least.
But don’t let that stop you from packing your bags. Concerning job satisfaction, San Jose, more often than not, ranks among US cities with the happiest workers. So, that’s still got to count for something.
Many people who move here do so for huge career opportunities, and most of them are delighted with their decision.
Another selling point of San Jose is that you can never get bored. Well, not unless by choice, as there’s always something impressive and entertaining going on in San Jose.
The city’s economic market draws people from all corners of the world, making it one of California’s most diversified cities. As such, not only will you come across people from literally everywhere, but you’ll also get to enjoy and experience diverse cultures, events, festivals, and activities.
Yet another perk of moving to San Jose, CA, is that you’ll get to enjoy the city’s exquisite cuisine. You can never go hungry here, not when you have access to a world-class food scene.
In terms of variety, you can’t exhaust your cravings or the many city offerings. A few recommendations? Whenever you’re in the mood for American cuisine, Orchard City Kitchen is the real deal. You can also try Acopio (Mexican) or 10 Butchers Korean BBQ (Korean). And in those days when your taste buds are itching for something fancy, LePapillion and LaForet (French) are worthwhile options.
Also, if you like to pour some libation and have a good time, Hapa’s Brewing Company and Camino Brewing Co. are worth checking out.
While most people come here for career opportunities, many stay for the climate. The city has what’s arguably the best weather in the country, thanks to its warm Mediterranean climate characterized by fantastic temperatures. While here, expect nothing but warm, bright summers and mild-wet, cool winters.
So, if you come from a place like Alta, UT, or Buffalo, NY, where getting buried in the snow is the order of the day, you may want to leave your winter outerwear and snow shovel behind. And with over 300 days of sunshine annually, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking outdoors of the city.
If you’re an advocate of environment conservation, San Jose is an ideal destination for you. As a matter of fact, San Jose is regarded as one of the country’s most sustainable cities, so you’ll be in good hands here.
The city has a reputation for having progressive environmental policies, the most prominent being the San Jose Green Vision (SJGV). Initially passed in 2007, this 15-year sustainability plan aims to leverage green energy efforts in a bid to cut down greenhouse gas emissions, which is a notable cause.
Moreover, San Jose is also working to reduce landfill waste to 0% by 2040, a measure that has made it one of the country’s top cities in waste management and recycling.
San Jose, CA, is a great city, no doubt. But we will not lie to you that the city is heaven-standard. In other words, it wouldn’t sit right with us if we didn’t mention the downsides of living in this beautiful city. So, let’s see what lies on the other side.
This may not come as breaking news, but life in San Jose, CA, doesn’t come cheap. In fact, according to Rocket Mortgage, Silicon Valley’s capital is the 8th most expensive city in the US.
In other words, San Jose’s cost of living is outrageous, almost hysterical, until you get here and discover that the prices are almost unbearable. Everything, from a simple haircut to groceries and entertainment, is expensive.
So, if you don’t have a remunerative offer on the table or a fat bank account, you may want to consider taking a step back from moving to San Jose. This leads us to the next point.
Well, just like the cost of living, San Jose’s housing market is off-putting, to say the least. The city has its median home price at a staggering $1.3 million, so it’s safe to say you shouldn’t expect to secure a home without significant savings.
Moreover, the lack of affordability also extends to the renting department. So, if you’re considering renting, get ready for sticker shock. As of mid-2023, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in San Jose sits at $2939, comparable to the ever-obnoxious rent prices of San Francisco and New York City.
Another downside to being a San Jose resident is high taxes. This isn’t surprising as California’s income tax is the highest in the US. Now, combine that with San Jose’s 9.38% sales tax; you’ll definitely feel the pain.
After paying your sales, state, and federal taxes, you’ll lose roughly 30% of your earnings. So you may want to think about that before moving to Silicon Valley’s capital.
With plenty of opportunities, diverse cultures, and cutting-edge innovation, San Jose, CA, beckons as the ideal destination for most people. And if—all things considered—a move to the city is still on your cards, contact us at Granite Northwest Grading & Paving Company and let us help you leave your mark on San Jose’s bustling streets.
Who We Are
Looking for reliable and experienced asphalt paving services in the Bay Area? Look no further than our family-owned-and-operated company. From pothole repair to line striping, we offer a range of services to keep your surface looking great. Contact us today for a personalized consultation and start your paving project on the right foot.
Contact Us
Email Us: zsnorthwest@gmail.com
Call Us: (408) 471-3438
Address: 481 Park Ave Unit 12, San Jose CA, 95110
Hours Of Operation
Monday 7:30AM – 6:00PM
Tuesday 7:30AM – 6:00PM
Wednesday 7:30AM – 6:00PM
Thursday 7:30AM – 6:00PM
Friday 7:30AM – 6:00PM
Saturday 8:00AM – 3:00PM
Sunday 8:00AM – 12:00PM
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