Olivehurst used to be known as Denniston, back when the Okies were escaping the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. People are still streaming into this fertile land, as Olivehurst saw a population increase of almost 3,000 people in the last few years.
When most people think of Northern California, they think of San Francisco or Sacramento, but there's a more northern north than that, as Olivehurst residents know
Olivehurst used to be known as Denniston, back when the Okies were escaping the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl in the 1930s. People are still streaming into this fertile land, as Olivehurst saw a population increase of almost 3,000 people in the last few years.
When most people think of Northern California, they think of San Francisco or Sacramento, but there's a more northern north than that, as Olivehurst residents know. This charming woodsy town has plenty for nature lovers, including hiking trails, farmers markets and ski resorts, all located nearby, but most people will adore this charming CDP for its proximity to Lake Tahoe, and its swimming, skiing, dining and mountain fun. Not that you have to leave Olivehurst to have a good time, but it's a small place with small pleasures. In fact, most people commute to work. It's just nice to know large-scale recreation is fairly close at hand. It's also nice to know, for California real estate, Olivehurst is very welcoming. Pack your bags. You're headed north.
Olivehurst is all about potential. Though it's mostly a commuter town, folks here don't have to wander very far to enjoy the fruits of their labors. Though it sits far too inland to make a beach day sensible, Olivehurst is only about two hours from North Lake Tahoe, and the same for Reno, Nevada. So whether you're hankering for the cha-ching of casinos or the splash of cannonballs from a houseboat, a weekend filled with various types of entertainment is surprisingly accessible.
Of course, not every weekend can be spent road-tripping across state lines. For weeknights, Olivehursters head downtown and enjoy a bite to eat at one of the local joints, grabbing burritos from the Taqueria de Cinco de Mayo or a slice to go at Neighbors Pizza. Outside of dinner, there are few options, but how badly do you need commercial entertainment on a Wednesday night? This is why they invented Netflix. Don't fuss.
This beautiful northern city has a lot going for it, so moving here will probably be more enjoyable than stressful, but there are still some considerations to keep in mind. Plan in advance where you're going to work. Most residents are commuters. There isn't a big call for local workers, though there are restaurants and chain stores that may require help. For the most part, it's slim pickings within the border. Come with a job offer already in hand, or plan to pound the pavement for a good long while.
Next up: vacancy rates. You're in luck. There is a decent vacancy rate, so finding places to rent in Olivehurst isn't terrible, but you'll still want to give it a month or two to find the ideal spot. Do you love rental homes? Or do you prefer one-bedroom apartments? There's plenty of every type of accommodation, so don't sweat the small stuff.
Finally, it's worth pointing out that the cost of living is totally manageable, especially when you consider many places in California are brutally pricey. Olivehurst hovers around average, and the rents should make you breathe a sigh of relief.
This is America, and America runs on cars. Sure, some places, like San Francisco and New York have pretty decent public transportation. But when you've set down stakes in Olivehurst you'll quickly realize a car is a major necessity. The town has a WalkScore of about 42. That means two to four wheels are required. You may be able to swing by a corner shop or delicatessen by foot or bike, but don't plan on getting any real errands done in your Keds. Highway 70 is the main access route, though the 99 and 5 are the big freeways that can take you anywhere. There is also a bus that keeps a route down the main road, probably not coincidentally called Olivehurst Avenue, but the range is fairly limited by anyone's standards.
Good news for your wardrobe! The weather here is pretty terrific. Granted, it's not Southern California, flip-flops and cut offs year round terrific, but you won't have to worry about shoveling snow. You may, however, want to invest in some extra sunblock. Summers are sizzling, but it usually stays below the triple digits.
Because Olivehurst is such a cute little town, it doesn't have traditional neighborhoods that the hipsters can take over and rename. There are some differences between areas, and this overview will help you decide which section is right for you, hipster or not.
North: Up top you'll find plenty of houses for rent. This suburban paradise has mostly single-family homes, but check out 7th Avenue for some sweet apartment rentals. Stay to the east side or suffer from noise pollution: the airport landing strip is awfully close.
South: Planned neighborhoods and wide-open space make up most of the territory in the south. Again, there aren't a lot of commercial businesses in these parts, but you're farther from them here than in the north or east.
East: This area surrounds lots of local activity destinations, so there are plenty of big homes tucked into neat neighborhoods. There is also a neighborhood pool here. Still, very few amenities as far as eateries and gas stations, but there is easy access to Highway 70 and McGowan Parkway.
While the lack of amenities within walking distance and a long commute are drawbacks for some, the advantages of living in Olivehurst far outweigh these minor inconveniences. After all, this is America. Driving to work and play is an issue of pride in these parts. Olivehursters enjoy an excellent balance of work and recreation, with some of California's greatest attractions just hours away. Plus, the great outdoors and beautiful seasons ensure pleasant entertainment whether it's April or January. Live music, community events and fruit picking farms close by are also unique treasures of this town. Locals are warm, inviting and friendly. Small towns never looked so exciting.
