Santa Clara is a city that sits in the heart of Silicon Valley. It's no surprise then, that it is home to many who work in the tech industry, as well as many tech giants and Fortune 1000 companies. It's home to much more than high-tech though – it's also a city full of good sports, excellent educational institutions, a thriving arts and culture scene, and a friendly, welcoming LGBTQ community. Truly, Santa Clara is a city with so much to offer!
A Look at Santa Clara’s History
Santa Clara was first incorporated as a town in 1852. Originally a small settlement, it began to grow with the establishment of Santa Clara College in 1851 as well as many small family farms and orchards which were developed in the area. Eventually, as the town grew, it became the site of many manufacturing plants as well as an important center of agriculture. Later, it became an important center for technology and remains so today, sitting in the heart of Silicon Valley. In addition to all of the business and technological opportunities it offers, Santa Clara offers plenty to see and do for all interests, and many warm and welcoming neighborhoods. Truly, Santa Clara would make a great place to call home.
A Few Fun Facts About Santa Clara
Read more fun facts about Santa Clara here.
Santa Clara’s LGBTQ Community
Santa Clara is a city that loves and supports its LGBTQ community with a variety of resources, including:
PFLAG San Jose-Peninsula is the Santa Clara area’s local chapter of the national PFLAG organization, which is the largest grassroots organization of its kind in the country. PFLAG is well-known for its mission of supporting LGBTQ people, friends, family, and allies across the country in a wide variety of ways. With 500 chapters and more than 200,000 members in the United States, PFLAG plays a critical and important role in providing advocacy, support, and resources to the LGBTQ community.
The Youth Space is a youth community center for LGBTQ young adults ages 13 to 25 living in the Santa Clara area. The group plans events, provides meeting spaces, resources, and safe spaces to be around supportive people.
The Billy DeFrank Center is an LGBTQ community center located in nearby San Jose. It has been supporting, celebrating, and advocating for the LGBTQ community in the greater Santa Clara area for four decades. The group provides many opportunities, programs, and resources and is truly a pillar of the city’s LGBTQ community.
What's the Weather Like in Santa Clara?
For those who love generally mild weather year-round, Santa Clara is an excellent place to live. Over the course of the year, the temperature usually varies from 43°F to 80°F. There is a minimal amount of rain – only 15 inches on average per year, and no snow. Almost any time is a good time to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors here!
The Best Events in Santa Clara
Silicon Valley Pride is the Silicon Vally area’s annual pride celebration. Whether you enjoy parades, parties, networking opportunities, family-friendly activities, or all of the above you’re sure to find it here. This is one celebration you’ll definitely want to put on your calendar!
Santa Clara Art and Wine Festival
The Santa Clara Art and Wine Festival is a very popular annual event that is a wonderful way to enjoy local and regional art, live music, excellent wine, good food, and fun with friends. You’ll definitely want to be sure to put it on your list of must-try events each year.
Where to Live in Santa Clara
When considering where to live in Santa Clara, you’ll have many wonderful options to choose from. Although you won’t find one specific “gayborhood” in Santa Clara, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t many wonderful neighborhoods to choose from. In fact, almost the entire city is very progressive and welcoming to those from all walks of life. Like most of California, though, housing prices are going to be higher than what you would find elsewhere. In fact, the median list price of homes currently for sale in Santa Clara is around $1.3 million. Living further out from the city center will of course save money, but generally, those moving to the area can expect home prices on the more expensive side. With that being said, there are many wonderful styles, options, and neighborhoods to choose from!
Arts and Entertainment
The Triton Museum of Art is a beautiful art museum showcasing both contemporary and historical art with an emphasis on Bay Area artists. It’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon being inspired, educated, and entertained.
Mission City Center for the Performing Arts
Mission City Center for the Performing Arts is a local performing arts theater in Santa Clara. Throughout the year, a wide variety of performances are offered and it is a wonderful place to enjoy a show and plenty of fun with family and friends!
Parks and Recreation
Though they are named for nearby San Francisco, the 49er's stadium is actually located in Santa Clara. For those who love football, or simply an exciting and entertaining game with plenty of loud fans, good food, and fun, taking in a 49ers game is always a great way to spend a Santa Clara day.
California’s Great America is a 112-acre amusement park featuring coasters, water rides, games, and many other entertaining amusements for visitors to enjoy.
Santa Clara Nightlife
Woodham Sports Lounge is a popular LGBTQ lounge known for its excellent karaoke, good drinks, and friendly people. It’s a great way to enjoy a fun night out with friends in Santa Clara.
Renegades is a lively gay bar known for its cocktails and bar snacks as well as its pool tables, darts, pinball machines, and spacious patio. It’s definitely a must-try stop on a night out in Santa Clara!
Contact a Santa Clara Gay Realtor Today
If you're ready to make a move to Santa Clara, at www.gayrealestate.com, we're here to help you take the first step toward finding an agent who knows and loves the community, and who can help you find a home and a neighborhood you'll love. We're proud to have a network of excellent realtors in Santa Clara, and we would love to help connect you with the right one. Contact a Santa Clara gay realtor today for a free, no-obligation consultation!
