With a population of over 200,000, Oxnard is the largest and most populous city in Ventura County, California. Located just 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles along the beautiful Pacific Coast, Oxnard offers residents and visitors a vibrant coastal community with a pleasant Mediterranean climate.
Population and Demographics
According to the latest census data, Oxnard has a population of 209,877 residents. Oxnard is ethnically diverse, with Latinos making up 74% of the population, followed by Whites at 14%, Asians at 7% and African Americans at 2%.
With its affordable housing prices compared to the greater LA area, Oxnard has become popular with young families. The median age in Oxnard is 31, with over 30% of the population under the age of 18.
Economy and Major Employers
Oxnard has a diversified economy focused on key industries like agriculture, international trade, defense, and manufacturing. Some of the top employers in Oxnard include:
- Naval Base Ventura County – Employs over 17,500 civilian, military and contract workers
- St. John’s Regional Medical Center – Employs over 1,550 people
- Haas Automation – Employs over 1,500 people
- Seminis Vegetable Seeds – Employs over 1,100 people
- Boskovich Farms – Major producer of strawberries and vegetables
Other major industries and employers in Oxnard include finance, technology, tourism and the arts. The city has invested heavily in downtown revitalization and infrastructure improvements to support continued economic growth.
For more information on Oxnard’s business climate and economy, visit the Oxnard Economic Development Office website.
Attractions and Things to Do
Oxnard offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors:
- Beaches – Miles of scenic, uncrowded beaches perfect for swimming, surfing and sunbathing.
- Channel Islands Harbor – Marinas, seafood restaurants, whale watching tours and water recreation.
- Carnegie Art Museum – Showcases local and international contemporary artwork.
- Murphy Auto Museum – Impressive collection of classic cars and automobiles.
- Oxnard Performing Arts Center – Home to the prestigious Oxnard Symphony Orchestra.
- Shopping – The Collection Riverpark outdoor mall and other local boutiques.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy Oxnard’s parks, nature preserves and scenic walking and biking paths.
Sports
The city is home to the Dallas Cowboys training camp each summer at River Ridge Playing Fields. Fans can watch America’s team practice and scrimmage for free.
Oxnard is also home to the Oxnard High School Yellowjackets, with a celebrated football program and over 100 years of athletic tradition. The school has produced NFL players like Aaron Plummer, Robert Garcia, Donnie Edwards and others.
College sports are popular in Oxnard as well, with Oxnard College competing in a variety of men’s and women’s sports in the California Community College Athletic Association.
Local Government
Oxnard is a full-service general law city governed by a City Manager and City Council. The public is welcome to get involved through city council meetings, commissions and local events.
For more information on Oxnard’s elected officials and local government services, visit the City of Oxnard website.
Visitor Information
The Oxnard Convention and Visitors Bureau Facebook page is a great resource for people planning a trip to Oxnard. You can get the latest updates on local events, news and travel tips.
For more in-depth visitor information, check out the official Oxnard tourism website. Find guides on the top things to do, places to stay, dining options and more to help you plan the perfect Oxnard getaway.