Located in Central California’s Merced County, Los Banos is a residential community named for the natural spring found in western San Joaquin Valley. Approximately 39,000 people lived in the city as of 2019, and many former Bay Area residents are moving to the area for its affordable home prices and slower pace. With convenient access to neighboring cities via Interstate 5 and State Route 152, commuters love the ease of access to and from Los Banos. While the economy may not be as thriving as Silicon Valley, job opportunities do exist here, with top employers including the Los Banos Unified School District, Memorial Hospital Los Banos, and Kagome.
Life in Los Banos is fairly quiet, making it a great place for families to reside. Locals enjoy spending time outdoors at the San Luis National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to waterfowl, elk, and a plethora of other plants and animals. The downtown area features many bars, restaurants, and specialty shops, and community events like the Los Banos Tomato Festival are held here. The Los Banos Arts Council also hosts theatrical and musical productions as well as ceramics and pottery classes. The Los Banos Downtown Association and other civic organizations work hard to offer residents a sense of belonging, and you’re sure to feel right at home.
