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    OverviewWeatherHousingDemographicsJobsPoliticsCrimeTransportationEducationOutdoorsCulture
    1. California
    2. San Luis Obispo County

    Major cities or towns:

    San Luis Obispo
    Paso Robles
    Atascadero
    San Luis Obispo County is located on the central coast of California, known for its mild Mediterranean climate, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant community. The geography features rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and fertile agricultural valleys. The population of around 280,000 is diverse, with a median age of 38 and a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals. The economy is anchored by agriculture, tourism, education, and healthcare, offering a range of employment opportunities, though the cost of living and housing can be high compared to the state average. The education system includes well-regarded K-12 schools and the renowned California Polytechnic State University. Healthcare is accessible, with several hospitals and medical facilities. Cultural attractions include historic missions, art galleries, and performing arts venues, complemented by abundant outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, and water sports. The transportation infrastructure includes an airport and public transit, while the community is generally safe with low crime rates. Overall, San Luis Obispo County offers a desirable quality of life, blending small-town charm with urban amenities, in a stunning natural setting.

    Demographics

    Population

    283K

    Ethnicity %

    White
    69
    Black
    2
    Asian
    4
    Hispanic
    22

    Median Age

    39.2

    Density

    4 of 10

    82 / Mile²

    Avg Family Size

    3.4

    Religious

    39%

    Foreign Born

    27%

    Veterans

    4.4%

    Adult Smokers

    12%

    Adult Obesity

    28%

    Uninsured

    7%

    Excessive Drinking

    23%

    Poverty Rate

    12.3%

    Weather

    Sunlight

    5.5 hours winter dailyVery sunny

    Summer average temp

    87°F

    Winter max temp

    60°F

    Precipitation

    17 in.

    Snowfall (inches)

    0.1 (low)

    Drought risk

    High

    Earthquake risk

    Moderate

    Wildfire risk

    Moderate

    Tornado risk

    Very Low

    Hurricane risk

    Negligible

    Crime

    Rank: 3.5 of 10

    (crimes per 1,000 people yearly)

    Violent

    6 (4.2)

    Property

    5 (20)

    Assault

    6 (3.6)

    Larceny (theft)

    4 (14)

    Robbery

    2 (0.3)

    Burglary

    4 (5.0)

    Rape

    4 (0.35)

    Auto Theft

    4 (1.4)

    Murder

    1 (0.01)

    Arson

    3 (0.12)

    Driving deaths involving alcohol

    37%

    Politics and Law

    State politics

    Blue (Democrat)

    Abortion laws

    Legal until fetal viability

    Marijuana laws

    Legal for recreational use

    Gun Laws

    Open carry prohibited, Permitted conceal carry

    Democrat

    55%

    Republican

    43%

    State Tax Burden

    9.48%

    Cigarette Tax

    $2.87

    Jobs

    Income (per capita)

    $67,951

    Unemployment

    3%

    Employment

    57.6%

    Hours worked

    38.6

    Outdoors

    Natural Amenities

    7.9 / 10

    Water Area

    8.61%

    Near park?

    91%

    Beaches

    Within 1 hour

    Mountains

    Less than 1 hour

    Tree Area

    10%

    Housing

    Home Ownership

    56%

    Median Home Price

    $862K

    Average Rent

    $2,880

    Internet over 25mbps

    32%

    Transportation

    Walkability

    25

    Cycling

    29

    Public Transit

    28

    Major Airport

    <2 hours

    Average Commute Time

    21

    Education

    K-12 Test Scores

    5 of 10  

    (avg: -0.05)

    College graduates

    35%

    Culture

    Arts scene

    unknown

    Food awards per 100k

    unknown