Rent to Own Homes in Westminster, CA

Top Reasons to Live in Westminster CA

Housing Statistics The median population age of Westminster is 38, so many living here are families looking to put down roots. That's further evidenced by the low turnover rate, which comes in annually at around 18 percent. The average price for a home in the first quarter of 2013 was $407,034 and the median price came in at $405,000, well above the 2012 median of $387,000. Westminster certainly wasn't immune to the effects of the market crash, but the attractive location and firm footing of the inhabitants guaranteed the swift return to stability. Because of the high cost of living and housing inherent to Southern California, it's natural that Westminster should have a balance between renters and owners. Those hoping for home or townhouse ownership but unable to afford it presently should consider rent to own homes, but there is also a sizable share of renters. Owners make up 51.9 percent of the housing units, renters 43 percent, leaving a 5.1 percent vacancy rate, which is relatively low when compared to the rest of nation. Home values in Westminster remain strong and the market has more demand than availability, ensuring years of continued stability and growth.

School Systems Westminster has a school system with fairly impressive rankings. There are currently 12 public elementary schools. Eastwood Elementary, Susan B. Anthony Elementary and Post Elementary are rated highest among them. As for middle schools, there are three, with Sarah McGarvin Intermediate School rated the best. There are also three public high schools, with La Quinta taking first place. There are also four private schools of suitably impressive nature, but none of them continue through high school, stopping instead at eighth grade.

Local Events and Festivals Because of Westminster's large Asian population, there are many Vietnamese and Chinese themed events that happen annually. The largest event is Chinese New Year, which is celebrated with parades, floats, specialty foods from local bakeries, and firecrackers. This celebration coincides with the Tet Festival. It's very colorful and locals are especially enthusiastic about this enjoyable period from January to February. In the summer is the Summer Concert Series, where every Thursday night musicians play live for guests. Finally, the Blessed Sacrament Parish Festival occurs in May, and it features rides, games and raffles that appeal to the whole family regardless of religious affiliation.

Nightlife Westminster is a fairly quiet town, but there are always options for evening entertainment. Movie theaters dot the city, but there are also bars, billiards clubs, including International Billiards, and karaoke bars like Pegg Street. Many bars are open late as well, including XO Night Club and Q's Lounge Cafe and Restaurant. Drinks tend to be stiff and the clientele rambunctious, but everyone has a good time whether it's Wednesday or Saturday night.

Arts and Culture Culture is found everywhere in Little Saigon, but especially in the various modern art galleries and museums. The galleries are noted for their excellent selection and unusually reasonable prices, especially Art Center Gallery, located inside the Westminster Mall. It displays and sells pieces by Godard and Gabe Leonard, alongside popular tattoo-inspired artwork. The Westminster Historical Society has a museum and a park, and it showcases local artifacts from the city's history. It's a common location for student field trips and families picnicking on sunny weekends.