English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Thousand Oaks, CA

More than two years after the Amazon Fresh in Thousand Oaks opened with fanfare, the store on Promenade Way is slated to close in coming weeks.

Amazon notified the state March 14 of the closure of its 33,000-square-foot store at the Promenade at Westlake shopping center, saying 76 workers would be laid off, according to state records.

The company gave a May 13 closure date to the state but officials with the chain said the Thousand Oaks store's last day is April 27.

“Certain store locations work better than others, and after an assessment of our offering we’ve decided to close our Amazon Fresh store in Thousand Oaks," said Griffin Buch, Amazon spokesperson, in a statement.

He said area customers could shop at Amazon's online site with same-day delivery and at other Amazon Fresh stores and Whole Foods Markets.

"We remain committed to Amazon Fresh and our broader grocery strategy, and will continue to refine our portfolio of stores as we learn which locations and features resonate most with customers,” Buch said.

The Thousand Oaks store was the chain's 40th to open in August 2022, and the company touted its cashierless checkout technology for shoppers.

For its grand opening, Amazon Fresh provided a host of giveaways, including coffee, smoothie samples and discounts, according to reports at the time.

The location at 140 Promenade Way had once been home to Bristol Farms, which closed in February 2016 after more than 20 years, and later Vintage Grocers, which ended its two-plus year run in the space in March 2019.

A message left Friday afternoon with the Promenade at Westlake shopping center was not immediately returned. The center is in the Thousand Oaks portion of Westlake Village.

Ventura County's only other Amazon Fresh in Moorpark opened around February 2022 and is not affected. The company currently lists on its website 25 Amazon Fresh stores in California, including the Thousand Oaks and Moorpark locations.

Amazon officials said the company's goal is to make grocery shopping faster and easier for customers whether in person or online.

The company already has a large online grocery business. Amazon officials said they expect to open new Whole Foods Markets and Amazon Fresh stores as they see results they like. A new design for new Amazon Fresh stores and nearly all existing sites has shown promise.

The company did not answer a question about other stores being closed. However, an Amazon Fresh in Manassas, Virginia is also shuttering, according to other news reports and that state's Department of Workforce Development and Advancement, which received notification last week.

Stacie N. Galang is news director of the Ventura County Star. She can be reached at stacie.galang@vcstar.com or 805-437-0222.

Moving to a new city is always exciting, but it can also feel like a leap into the unknown.

If you’re thinking about moving to Thousand Oaks, California, you might have plenty of questions about what this scenic Ventura County city has to offer. From the warm community atmosphere to the abundance of outdoor adventures, Thousand Oaks has its own unique perks that set it apart from other Southern California locales.

Here, we’ll walk you through the top 10 things to keep in mind before making the move. Whether you’re considering job opportunities, quality of life, or local culture, read on to get the inside scoop.

Community and Atmosphere

The moment you arrive in Thousand Oaks, you’ll likely notice its friendly, suburban charm. Despite being home to over 126,000 residents, it somehow maintains the feel of a smaller town. You’ll find neighbors who look out for one another, weekend farmer’s markets filled with local produce, and lively community events throughout the year.

A 2022 survey by the National Citizen Survey (NCS) indicated that 87% of respondents rated Thousand Oaks as an excellent or good place to live, highlighting the city’s consistent ranking among the safest areas in California. That sense of security and camaraderie appeals to both families and singles looking to lay down roots in a welcoming environment.

Cost of Living

As is the case with many California locales, the cost of living in Thousand Oaks is somewhat higher than the national average. According to recent data from BestPlaces, the city’s overall cost of living index is around 171, compared to the U.S. baseline of 100. Housing is typically the biggest factor in these expenses, with median home prices hovering around $850,000 – $900,000 in 2024.

While these figures might seem daunting, the high quality of life—bolstered by safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor spaces—often offsets the sticker shock for many residents.

Neighborhoods and Housing

Thousand Oaks encompasses diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character and housing options:

Rental Market

If buying isn’t on your radar, expect average monthly rents to range from $2,000 – $2,600 for a one-bedroom apartment, depending on factors like location, amenities, and building age. Before signing a lease or mortgage, consider your priorities—be it proximity to parks, schools, or your workplace—to choose a neighborhood that aligns with your lifestyle.

Schools and Education

One of Thousand Oaks’ biggest draws for families is its highly rated education system. The Conejo Valley Unified School District boasts several schools with GreatSchools ratings of 8, 9, or even 10, reflecting a strong commitment to academic excellence. Key high schools like Westlake High School, Newbury Park High School, and Thousand Oaks High School consistently score above average on state tests and offer a range of extracurricular programs.

For higher education, California Lutheran University is right in the heart of Thousand Oaks, offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. Within a reasonable driving distance, you’ll also find Pepperdine University in Malibu and California State University Channel Islands in Camarillo, making continued education accessible for students and professionals alike.

Job Market and Economic Opportunities

Thousand Oaks might not be a major urban hub like Los Angeles or San Diego, but it does have a strong local economy. Some key data to consider:

Although Thousand Oaks isn’t brimming with skyscrapers or corporate headquarters, its proximity to Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, along with a surge in remote-work possibilities, provides additional flexibility for job-seekers.

Outdoor Recreation and Green Spaces

Thousand Oaks more than lives up to its name, with over 15,000 acres of open space and more than 150 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Popular spots include:

These vast outdoor opportunities are a large part of why 91% of residents in a recent community survey stated that they value the city’s natural beauty. The mild Southern California climate allows for year-round exploration, so you’ll never run out of new places to discover.

Cultural Life and Entertainment

Though Thousand Oaks is often praised for its tranquil vibe, it does offer a fair share of cultural and entertainment options:

If you crave a more bustling nightlife or expansive arts scene, downtown Los Angeles is about 40 miles away (an hour’s drive, depending on traffic). That proximity allows residents to enjoy the best of both worlds: calm suburban living and easy access to big-city adventures.

Traffic and Commuting

Like most parts of Southern California, Thousand Oaks experiences traffic congestion, particularly along the U.S. Route 101 corridor during peak hours. However, when compared to the gridlock typical of downtown Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks fares relatively well. Here are a few commuting insights:

If you’re moving here with a job in LA, consider flexible work hours or remote arrangements to cut down on commute stress.

Proximity to Nearby Attractions

Thousand Oaks is strategically positioned to let you experience a broad slice of Southern California life:

Whether you fancy a day of retail therapy on Rodeo Drive or a peaceful beach picnic on the weekends, Thousand Oaks offers enough proximity to satisfy a wide range of interests.

Local Events and Community Involvement

Community spirit runs high in Thousand Oaks, and you’ll find countless ways to participate:

Becoming part of these events is a fantastic way to meet neighbors, build friendships, and quickly feel at home.

Should You Move to Thousand Oaks?

Deciding on moving to Thousand Oaks could be one of the best choices you make if you value quality education, scenic surroundings, and a warm community atmosphere. While you might face some challenges—like navigating the higher cost of living or adjusting to Southern California traffic—the overall lifestyle benefits tend to outweigh these hurdles.

From outstanding schools and employment opportunities to a never-ending roster of hiking trails, parks, and cultural events, Thousand Oaks strikes a delicate balance between suburban serenity and vibrant local life.

Relocating can be stressful, and you’ll want a moving company that handles your belongings with care and professionalism. As you look to make the transition, do your homework and seek out trusted movers in Thousand Oaks who come highly recommended.

Reading reviews, asking for references, and verifying licensing can save you a lot of headaches down the line. This approach will free up time and energy so you can focus on exploring your new community and settling in comfortably.

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The first batch of tiny modular homes has arrived to house people experiencing homelessness in Thousand Oaks, California.

There were more than 2,300 individuals without housing last year in Ventura County. Now, the Thrive Grove Navigation Center will become a temporary home for some. The Ventura County Star reported exciting progress on the city's new emergency shelter with the first delivery of dozens of modular buildings.

The center was spearheaded by developer DignityMoves, a nonprofit that builds rapid, scalable solutions for people without housing. The first phase will house 50 people on a one-acre site and is expected to open in the spring. The center will also provide workforce training and case managers who can assist residents with health, drug, and alcohol treatment programs.

The Thousand Oaks City Council approved exceptions to laws that limited the time people can live at an emergency shelter up to six months. This extra time is needed for residents to find permanent housing.

The 18-foot-by-11-foot homes consist of either two rooms, each for a single occupant, or one larger room, designed for adult couples. While the individual homes lack kitchens and bathrooms, two modular units will have restrooms and showers with private stalls.

According to the Star, there will be additional office space and an area for residents to pick up meals prepared off-site. Laundry facilities and computer stations are planned.

While the tiny homes were delivered with bland gray exteriors, city officials said that once installed, the units will be painted with royal blue and lime green accents.

Modular tiny homes have proved to be an effective part of the solution for homelessness. One community outside Austin, Texas, is now home to nearly 400 formerly unhoused people.

Tiny homes have also been used during extreme weather emergencies to house people displaced by Hurricane Helene.

Beyond providing a fast, cost-effective solution during a housing crisis, tiny homes boast numerous benefits that make them an attractive alternative to conventional housing.

The growing popularity of tiny homes is because of their low cost and sustainable features. Clever designs can maximize living space, and a smaller footprint requires less electricity and heat, lowering utility bills. Tiny houses can be paired with renewable energy sources like solar panels to function entirely off-grid.

The new village of tiny homes in Thousand Oaks will offer its residents a sustainable path as they transition out of homelessness.

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Grab Your Crew – the First 100 People in Line at the Grand Opening to Receive Free Games for a Year!

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., Jan. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Dave & Buster's, the ultimate entertainment, restaurant, and sports watching destination for families and friends, announces the opening of its completely reimagined location in Thousand Oaks, CA at 145 W Hillcrest Drive on Friday, January 31.

The all-new Dave & Buster's location brings everything families and crew connectors alike love, reimagined with innovative gaming activities and groundbreaking ways for crews to play – including Private Game Suites and an immersive watch experience.

Get ready for entertainment like never before. Here's what you can expect:

"We are thrilled to open the all-new Dave & Buster's Thousand Oaks as a premier entertainment destination," says General Manager Nicholas Wilson. "Be sure to come out for our Grand Opening and see this incredible transformation – from our giant 40-foot WOW Wall to the immersive gaming environment and all-new High-Tech Darts & Digital Shuffleboard, it's the ultimate experience and we can't wait to see you!"

The first 100 people in line at Dave & Buster's grand opening on January 31 will receive free games for a year! Doors open at 11 a.m., don't miss out on this opportunity to game all year! Terms & conditions apply.

Specials include the $5 Happy Hour, where guests can enjoy $5 drink specials on the new Tres Tequila Rita, 22 oz Domestic Drafts, wine, Backwoods Blueberry Lemonade and D&B Long Island Iced Tea.

Dave & Buster's Thousand Oaks hours of operation are Monday through Tuesday from 11 a.m. – midnight, Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. – 1 a.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 1 a.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. – midnight. For more information, please visit www.daveandbusters.com.

About Dave & Buster'sFounded in 1982 and headquartered in Coppell, Texas, Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc., is the owner and operator of 232 venues in North America that offer premier entertainment and dining experiences to guests through two distinct brands: Dave & Buster's and Main Event. The Company has 171 Dave & Buster's branded stores in 43 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada and offers guests the opportunity to "Eat, Drink, Play and Watch," all in one location. Each store offers a full menu of entrées and appetizers, a complete selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and an extensive assortment of entertainment attractions centered around playing games and watching live sports and other televised events. The Company also operates 61 Main Event branded stores in 22 states across the country, and offers state-of-the-art bowling, laser tag, hundreds of arcade games and virtual reality, making it the perfect place for families to connect and make memories. For more information about each brand, visit daveandbusters.com and mainevent.com.

SOURCE Dave & Buster's