Ventura County has long been known for its stunning coastline, mild climate, and laid-back lifestyle. But in recent years, a new trend has taken root—one that’s redefining how people live, work, and invest in real estate. The rise of RV and van life isn’t just about adventure-seekers chasing sunsets; it’s also shaking up the local housing market in unexpected ways.
With rising home prices and a shift toward flexible, minimalist living, more individuals and families are trading traditional housing for mobile homes, camper vans, and tiny homes on wheels. This movement is creating new opportunities and challenges for homeowners, investors, and policymakers alike. Whether you’re a homebuyer, a property owner, or someone looking to invest in alternative housing, understanding how the van life trend is influencing Ventura County real estate is more important than ever.
Why RV & Van Life is on the Rise
The appeal of mobile living isn’t just about wanderlust. While the idea of waking up to ocean views in a custom-built van is certainly romantic, the real driving factors behind this movement are more practical.
1. Affordability in a High-Priced Market
With median home prices in Ventura County exceeding $800,000, owning a traditional home is becoming increasingly out of reach for many buyers. Instead of spending decades tied to a mortgage, some are choosing a lower-cost, debt-free lifestyle by embracing van or RV living.
2. Remote Work & Digital Nomads
The work-from-anywhere revolution has allowed people to rethink where they live. Professionals who once had to be tied to an office are now able to travel full-time while working remotely. Ventura County’s beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor lifestyle make it a hotspot for digital nomads looking to settle—at least for a little while.
3. Minimalism & Sustainability
Many people are drawn to the simplicity of tiny living, cutting down on unnecessary space, possessions, and expenses. RVs and vans allow for a more sustainable lifestyle, reducing energy consumption and embracing off-grid living.
How This Trend is Affecting Ventura County’s Housing Market
While van and RV life might seem like a niche trend, it’s having a real impact on Ventura County real estate. Here’s what’s changing:
1. Increased Demand for RV-Friendly Properties
With more people adopting mobile lifestyles, there’s been growing interest in properties that accommodate RV parking, hookups, and storage. Buyers are looking for homes with large lots, extra driveways, or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) potential to support part-time or full-time RV living.
2. ADUs & Tiny Homes as Rental Income Sources
Many homeowners are capitalizing on the trend by adding ADUs, tiny homes, or RV parking spaces to generate rental income. With California’s new ADU laws making it easier to build secondary dwellings, Ventura County property owners are turning extra space into profitable short-term and long-term rentals.
3. Rise in Short-Term Rental Investments
The demand for Airbnb-style stays in unique settings is at an all-time high. More homeowners are listing RV-friendly properties or renting out parked tiny homes on platforms like Airbnb and Hipcamp, catering to the growing crowd of travelers seeking alternative accommodations.
Where to Find RV & Van Life Hotspots in Ventura County
Certain areas of Ventura County are particularly well-suited for RV and van dwellers, whether it’s for full-time living or vacation stays.
Ventura Beach RV Resort – Offers a prime location just steps from the beach, perfect for those who want a coastal RV lifestyle.
Ojai’s Boho Retreats – Known for its wellness-focused community, Ojai attracts travelers and long-term van lifers who appreciate nature, art, and sustainability.
Santa Paula’s Open Land & Country Feel – With larger lots and more flexible zoning, Santa Paula is an attractive area for buyers looking for land that can accommodate RV parking and tiny home setups.
Is Investing in Mobile-Friendly Property a Smart Move?
For homeowners and investors, the van and RV lifestyle presents new real estate opportunities. Properties with RV access, ADU potential, or flexible zoning are becoming more attractive to buyers looking for alternative housing solutions.
If you’re thinking about investing in a property that caters to this trend, here’s what to consider:
✔ Zoning & Regulations – Some areas in Ventura County have strict rules about long-term RV living or parking, so check local zoning laws before buying.
✔ Demand for Short-Term Rentals – Properties that can accommodate RV stays or tiny homes are highly desirable for Airbnb and short-term rental platforms.
✔ Future Market Trends – With the housing market shifting and affordability becoming a key issue, alternative living spaces will likely remain in demand.
Alternative Housing is Here to Stay
The rise of van and RV life in Ventura County is more than just a passing trend—it’s part of a larger shift in how people view housing, work, and lifestyle choices. Whether it’s for financial freedom, sustainability, or simply a love for adventure, mobile living is reshaping the local real estate landscape.For homeowners, this means new ways to generate income through ADUs, short-term rentals, or RV-friendly properties. For buyers and investors
