natividad.com
Español Menu home
natividad.com img

Living Here

Many of our employees live in Salinas, close to the hospital, while others choose one of the many beautiful surrounding communities. Each city offers its own unique character, lifestyle, and activities. Here’s a closer look at what makes this region such a great place to call home.

Salinas
Salinas sits just northeast of Monterey Bay and serves as the financial, governmental, and agricultural hub of Monterey County—yet it still maintains the charm of a rural community. Known as “The Salad Bowl of the World,” Salinas is also the birthplace of renowned author John Steinbeck.

Local Highlights:

Monterey
Monterey offers a temperate coastal climate, world‑class golf, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Weekends here can be spent exploring scenic coastal trails, watching sea lions, or spotting migrating whales. The Monterey Bay Aquarium is a world‑famous attraction and a favorite among locals.

Local Highlights:

Santa Cruz
Located about 45 minutes northwest of Salinas, Santa Cruz is known for its eclectic vibe, iconic beach boardwalk, and the spirited Banana Slug mascot of UC Santa Cruz. It’s a great fit for those who enjoy surfing, hiking, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Local Highlights:

Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach is a world‑renowned coastal resort community, best known for its legendary golf courses and breathtaking ocean views.

Local Highlight:

Carmel by the Sea
Carmel-by-the-Sea feels like a European village tucked along the California coast. With charming shops, fine dining, and pristine white‑sand beaches, it’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon.

Local Highlight:

Big Sur / Highway 1
Highway 1 through Big Sur is one of California’s most iconic scenic drives. The route winds along dramatic cliffs from Carmel-by-the-Sea south toward Los Padres National Forest. The area offers exceptional hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Hearst Castle is a must‑see stop along the way.

Local Highlights:

Resources & Links

Finding the right employer is important—but so is finding the right community for your family. A great place to begin exploring the area is the Salinas Chamber of Commerce: www.salinaschamber.com.

Housing
Our employees live throughout Monterey County, as well as in Santa Cruz and San Jose. Housing options vary widely—urban or rural, coastal or inland, renting or buying. Most locations are within a 45‑minute commute. Prices vary depending on location and lifestyle preferences.

Employment and Local News
In addition to the nationwide job-search engines, families of our employees can find employment opportunities at:

Schools and School Districts
For employees with school‑age children, these resources provide helpful information: 

Higher Education
The region is home to two four‑year universities and several community and vocational colleges.

Universities

Community Colleges