"Alberto hits his brother on the back of the head, looks to the north as he starts to get up. His brother's still sleepy, grumbles, 'It's not light yet.' If you want a new life, what's a few minutes wait?" – Lyrics from “Across the Wire" by Calexico
Calexico is a city of nearly 40,000 people that is situated on the American-Mexico border in California, and it was incorporated as a town in 1908. Just across the border is its adjacent Mexican cousin, Mexicali. Both cities were named out of respect for their geographical position and the history of the land here. California used to be a part of Mexico, which is why Calexico is still heavily influenced by Latino culture. Every year there is a Mariachi festival so that nobody forgets which country this little treasure of a city used to call home! If you're into awesome Mexican food, music and a feeling of community, this is the place for you. Speak Spanish? Even better.
Yes! In April of 2010 there was a fairly major earthquake in Baja, California that affected Calexico
"Alberto hits his brother on the back of the head, looks to the north as he starts to get up. His brother's still sleepy, grumbles, 'It's not light yet.' If you want a new life, what's a few minutes wait?" – Lyrics from “Across the Wire" by Calexico
Calexico is a city of nearly 40,000 people that is situated on the American-Mexico border in California, and it was incorporated as a town in 1908. Just across the border is its adjacent Mexican cousin, Mexicali. Both cities were named out of respect for their geographical position and the history of the land here. California used to be a part of Mexico, which is why Calexico is still heavily influenced by Latino culture. Every year there is a Mariachi festival so that nobody forgets which country this little treasure of a city used to call home! If you're into awesome Mexican food, music and a feeling of community, this is the place for you. Speak Spanish? Even better.
Wasn't There an Earthquake Here?
Yes! In April of 2010 there was a fairly major earthquake in Baja, California that affected Calexico. It measured 7.2 on the Richter scale and caused the partial collapse of two buildings in the city as well as damage to the water treatment plant. But there is good news here! Calexico officials acted quickly when news of the earthquake hit town, and they had several blocks cordoned off so that the public couldn't get in and hurt themselves. Everyone was kept safe and the repairs were completed in a reasonable time frame so that residents could continue on as normal. In any town in any state or country, disasters will happen - it's best to know that you are in the hands of experienced professionals when something does go wrong!
Neighborhoods
Downtown: Downtown is the southernmost area of Calexico which is directly adjacent to the chain-link border fence with Mexicali. This is the most populous in terms of housing and businesses.
Bravo: The Bravo area has some beautiful houses on the market for sale or rent. For a little more luxury, check out this neighborhood.
Heber Park: This neighborhood is quieter than most, and very affordable in terms of housing and amenities. It is a great place to live.
This Place Looks Familiar...
The 1983 comedy film Losin' It, starring Tom Cruise and Shelley Long, was filmed right here in Calexico. In the film, a car full of guys makes their way to Tijuana to meet some girls - but guess what" It was actually Calexico! Now you know and can tell all of your friends that you rent a house in the town that was a temporary home to the most famous Scientologist of them all. And guess what else? A couple of scenes in the 1997 movie The Game, starring Michael Douglas, were also filmed in Calexico through the chain-link fence that runs across the US-Mexico border.
Things to do in Calexico
Firstly, try some of the local food! Who needs “authentic” Mexican food prepared by a transplanted Iowan?!! When Mexican food is made by a Latino - native or by descent - it is something you will never forget. Check out the food at Mariscos El Camaron for some breathtaking south-of-the-border seafood flavors, or the Mariscos Puerto Nuevo Bar and Grill for some tasty fish, shrimp and conch with some good beer to wash it all down. Looking for something a little more ambitious to do with your time? Visit the Parque Vicente Guerrero right on the border with your family and friends to enjoy the fresh air, picnicking, and sports. For some relaxed shopping time, you can visit the Zumiez Imperial Valley Mall in nearby El Centro. The weather in this area is notoriously warm with very mild winters, so you will be able to spend a lot of time outside flying kites or pushing big wheels with sticks, if you so choose.
Houses and Rental Apartments in Calexico
Whether you are looking for a house, an apartment or a mobile home to rent, Calexico has what you need. This is a somewhat eclectic city when it comes to architectural styles and city planning, so be flexible when looking for a rental.
It can be tough to find a rental apartment in Calexico; however, if you persevere and keep your eyes open, you can find available 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in town. When you do, the price won't send you packing in a different direction. You will spend about $500 per month on a 1 bedroom rental apartment, and slightly more for a 2 bedroom apartment. For a utilities-included 1 bedroom apartment, you should budget about $750 per month on rent.
Houses for rent in Calexico can be just as elusive as the apartments but again, they are out there. For monthly rental fees on a house with 2-4 bedrooms, you should expect to pay anywhere from $900 to $1400. The newer homes are on the more expensive side of the scale, and smaller, older homes are in the range of $900 to $1100 per month.
