Do People Live On Catalina Island? (What's It Like)

Lying just 22 miles off the Southern California coast, Santa Catalina Island is a glittering resort escape that feels worlds apart from the urban sprawl.

Yet beyond the island’s tourist sheen of luxe hotels and wild buffalo lies a tight-knit community going about daily life.

More than 4,000 residents call the island home year-round, with the vast majority residing in Catalina’s main town – the charming coastal village of Avalon.

Tiny outpost communities also exist at Empire Landing, Middle Ranch, and Two Harbors, while roughly 1 million annual visitors flock in from mainland California and beyond.

Keep reading to learn what it’s really like living and working on this scenic SoCal isle!

Catalina Island By The Numbers

Though only 22 miles from Newport Beach, the island has a vibe.

Here’s a snapshot of who inhabits Catalina:

Total island population: approximately 4,000

Main town – Avalon: nearly 4,000 residents

Two Harbors: around 200 residents

Annual visitors: upwards of 1 million

While tourism drives this coastal escape, Catalina maintains vibrant year-round communities, humming island life.

Cost Of Living On Catalina Island (Avalon)

Secluded island locales like Catalina inherently command a high cost of living, with travel logistics and import fees driving up expenses. Overall, estimates place Catalina’s cost of living around 68% higher than national averages.

Housing bears the biggest premium, averaging about 207% pricier than typical mainland homes. Even utilities run around 11% higher, thanks to supply chain factors.

And scoring a table at one of Avalon’s harbor-view eateries or boutiques will impact your wallet. Yet, for many residents, the trade-offs are worthwhile, thanks to Catalina’s inimitable lifestyle perks and natural beauty.

Housing On Catalina Island

Catalina Island homes fetch a hefty premium but offer residents gorgeous hillside and ocean views rarely found stateside. Expect sticker shock; the average Catalina house costs north of $1.4 million! For perspective, nationwide, the median home value is $450,000.

But island amenities, ocean proximity, and construction hurdles drive Avalon real estate sky-high. Recently, a 4-bed, 3,500-square-foot Catalina property sold for a whopping $4.6 million! Of course, more attainably priced options exist, especially away from downtown.

Condos and apartments average around $1,900 monthly for 2-bed rentals. Or consider the quaint cottages and bungalows lining Descanso Beach and elsewhere for character and scenery.

Perks aside, securing Catalina’s housing requires planning and a hefty budget. Supply is extremely limited, given geographic constraints. Yet, for homebuyers valuing an unbeatable island atmosphere over space, few settings compare to the colorful Avalon and Catalina’s villages.

Pros And Cons Of Living On Catalina Island

Before packing up for island life, weigh Catalina’s unique advantages against realities like limited services and rugged terrain:

Pros

Tight-knit small-town community
Low traffic and noise pollution
Endless outdoor recreation options
Beautiful harborside and ocean locale

Cons

The steep cost of living and housing
Isolation from mainland conveniences
Access obstacles – advanced planning required!
Job market limitations beyond hospitality/tourism

Ultimately, Catalina Island appeals most to residents prioritizing natural beauty, cozy village living, and coastal recreation over materialism. The slower pace also resonates with retirees and families seeking safe outdoor lifestyles.

For homebodies craving urban energy or suburban shopping malls, island seclusion could prove challenging in the long term. But for the right residents, Catalina supplies a magical lifestyle sans parallel.

Moving To Catalina Island

Before packing up for Catalina, keep realities like scarce housing stock, rugged terrain, and limited services in mind:

Before relocating, carefully weigh the realities of island life, like Catalina’s sky-high living costs, housing supply constraints, and dependence on mainland imports. With no bridges linking Avalon to greater LA, access requires more forethought.

Once they arrive, getting around means mostly walking, biking, or golf carts since vehicle options are limited. On the services side, only one tiny hospital and two modestly equipped grocery stores cater to residents across the entire island. Consider that outside tourism, job prospects are sparse, while entertainment and shopping pale compared to big cities.

When moving here, respect all wildlife by keeping safe distances and knowing proper precautions. Being aware and proactively cautious living alongside Catalina Island conservancy animals, especially around bison during hikes, helps ensure positive human-animal cohabitation.

Only two small K-12 schools on Catalina Island cater to local families – Avalon School and Two Harbors Elementary. The limited educational options can prove challenging for families with children requiring special assistance programs or a wider breadth of academic choice compared to larger school districts.

Additionally, no colleges or universities operate on the island itself. Students needing to attend campus must commute from Catalina via helicopter or ferry or enroll in remote learning programs. These constraints around further education should factor into family relocation decisions.

Catalina Island has just one small hospital—the Catalina Island Medical Center in Avalon. While the facility handles basic healthcare and emergencies, those with complex medical conditions or requiring specialty care should carefully vet whether needed services are available on-island before relocating.

Catalina’s rugged beauty fosters a proud community, but one that is largely remote and without mainland conveniences. Savvy planning around expectations, budgets, and quality-of-life priorities helps ensure a smooth transition. Follow up with Catalina Island real estate agents for more information.

Celebrities That Live On Catalina Island

Despite hovering so near Hollywood, few celebrities actually reside full-time on Catalina Island. But that remote atmosphere has lured its share of stars over the decades seeking an off-the-grid escape.

Most iconic is the Wrigley clan – the magnates behind the Wrigley chewing gum empire. The Wrigley family commissioned a sprawling mansion on Mt Ada complete with iconic towers and gardens. Though no longer Wrigley-owned, tours allow visitors a glimpse today.

In recent years comedian Bill Maher has also kept an island property to periodically enjoy Catalina’s slower pace and sunshine. Marilyn Monroe famously retreated to Catalina for respite at the height of her fame too.

And while not full-fledged islanders, icons ranging from Taylor Swift to Katy Perry to Leonardo DiCaprio have all been spotted getting away from LA amidst Catalina’s low-key harbor village vibes.

Where Is Catalina Island

Catalina Island resides just off of Southern California in the Pacific Ocean, located about 22 miles south-southwest of Los Angeles. Surrounded by crystal blue waters, the island is a natural getaway for Southern California residents tired of traffic jams and urban headaches.

The vast majority of Catalina residents and landmarks occupy Avalon – Catalina’s quaint oceanfront village on the island’s southeast shore. Two Harbors, an even smaller seaside village home to roughly 200, lies a mere 17 hilly miles to Avalon’s west.

While often confused with nearby San Clemente Island, Catalina uniquely boasts its medley of wild buffalo alongside swaying palm trees! Chartered boats, ferries like Catalina Express, and helicopters shuttle visitors between the mainland cities of Long Beach, Dana Point, and Newport Beach across the ocean to Avalon’s colorful streets and attractions.

Can you visit Catalina Island on a budget?

Visiting Catalina Island on a budget is possible with strategic planning. Travel during the off-season for lower rates, seek ferry discounts, and consider camping or hostels for accommodation. Bring your food, enjoy free activities like hiking and beaches, and use the complimentary Avalon trolley.

A day trip can further reduce costs by eliminating overnight expenses. While some costs are unavoidable, these tactics can significantly lower overall expenses, allowing for an enjoyable island experience without breaking the bank.

Catalina Island Map

You can orient yourself to Catalina’s landmarks and geography with the locator map below:

Community and Social Life

Catalina Island is home to a close-knit community of approximately 4,000 residents, creating a unique small-town charm that fosters a strong sense of belonging. Here, neighbors know each other by name, and relationships span generations, providing a supportive environment where parents feel secure knowing their children are looked after.

The island’s safety and watchful community dynamics enhance the quality of life, as seniors appreciate the camaraderie, and teenagers often joke about being unable to get away with anything due to the watchful eyes of their neighbors.

Community events and activities further enrich social interactions, allowing residents to engage with one another and strengthen their bonds, making Catalina Island not just a scenic getaway but a thriving community filled with warmth and connection.

Housing and Employment Challenges

Catalina Island faces significant housing and employment challenges, largely driven by a housing crisis that stems from scarcity and high demand. The limited availability of long-term rentals and seasonal accommodations often leads to lengthy waitlists, making it difficult for residents and newcomers to find suitable housing.

Many locals, including generational families who have lived on the island for decades, hold multiple jobs just to make ends meet due to the high cost of living. The influx of vacation rentals and second homes further complicates the housing market, as these properties often cater to tourists rather than providing stable housing for residents.

The Catalina Island Conservancy plays a vital role in addressing these issues, working to balance the preservation of the island’s natural beauty with the needs of its residents, yet the challenges persist as the demand for affordable housing continues to outpace supply.

Is Catalina Island Worth Visiting?

Catalina Island makes for an unbelievably scenic escape just offshore from urban Los Angeles and Orange County. Between Avalon’s vibrant harborfront dotted with paddle boarders to hiking Catalina’s remote wild interior, the weather in Catalina Island offers awesome relaxation or adventure amid gorgeous Mediterranean vistas.

On the tourism front alone, Catalina attracts more than 1 million annual visitors—and those are just day-trippers, not staying overnight! Clearly, the island works its magic, which explains why Catalina maintains a robust community of full-time residents who tolerate higher costs of living for the lifestyle payoff.

Specific perks luring visitors include top Catalina attractions like the Catalina casino building, underwater adventures via semi-submarine, and quality restaurants, all within easy walking distance in Avalon. Beach lovers have Descanso Beach’s lounge chairs and romantic couples have stunning coastal views for their backdrop.

Inland, the rugged, unspoiled hills and ecosystems feel a continent away – yet you can sample their beauty on short excursions like the Skyline Drive eco-tour. And the herd of American bison roaming free along ridges affirms you’re not in LA anymore at every turn!

Whether visiting Catalina Island for vacation relaxation, an adventure getaway or to scout the lifestyle as a prospective resident, it’s absolutely worth a trip to experience California’s incredible island jewel for yourself!

Still have questions? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about living on Catalina Island.

Can you live on Catalina Island?

Despite remoteness and having to import many goods from mainland California, over 4,000 full-time residents call Catalina Island home. Most people live on the Island, around the tourism hub Avalon.

How many people live on Catalina Island?

The population of Catalina Island is approximately 4,000 residents.

Who lives on Catalina Island?

The island is home to a mix of locals who work in tourism, hospitality, and various services, with most residing in Avalon.

Is Catalina Island safe?

Catalina Island is generally considered very safe for visitors. The main town, Avalon, has a low crime rate and a small-town atmosphere where many residents know each other. The island’s isolated nature and limited access contribute to its safety. Local police maintain a visible presence, especially in tourist areas.

What is the population of Catalina Island?

The current population is around 4,000 people.

Where is Catalina Island?

Catalina Island is about 22 miles off the Southern California coast, near Los Angeles.

How big is Catalina Island?

Catalina Island spans approximately 76 square miles.

How much does it cost to live on Catalina Island?

Living on Catalina Island can be quite expensive, with the cost of living around 68% higher than national averages.

What county is Catalina Island in?

Catalina Island is part of Los Angeles County.

How to live on Catalina Island?

To live on Catalina Island, you need to plan carefully due to high living costs and limited housing availability.

How much is Catalina Island worth?

Catalina Island’s worth includes its real estate and natural resources, making it a valuable piece of land. Specific valuation would depend on various factors including development and conservation efforts.

How many acres is Catalina Island?

Catalina Island covers about 47,884 acres.

Where is Catalina Island located?

Catalina Island is located in the Pacific Ocean, about 22 miles southwest of Los Angeles.

How large is Catalina Island?

At its widest point, it is approximately 22 miles long and 8 miles across.

What animals live on Catalina Island?

Catalina Island hosts a variety of wildlife, including the famous Catalina Island bison, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

How far is Catalina Island from the mainland?

Catalina Island is about 22 miles from the Southern California mainland.

How many buffalo are on Catalina Island?

There are approximately 150-200 buffalo on Catalina Island, resulting from a herd introduced for a film in the 1920s.

Where do workers live on Catalina Island?

Some workers live on the island, primarily in Avalon and other small communities, though many commute from the mainland due to high living costs.

Where do people live on Catalina Island?

Most people live in Avalon, with smaller populations in Two Harbors, Empire Landing, and Middle Ranch.

What does Catalina mean?

The name Catalina is derived from Saint Catherine (Santa Catalina in Spanish).

Why is Catalina Island so famous?

Catalina Island is famous for its natural beauty, wildlife, recreational activities, and as a historic getaway for Hollywood stars.

Who owned Catalina Island?

Catalina Island was owned by various private owners, including William Wrigley Jr., the chewing gum magnate, who developed much of its infrastructure.

Is Catalina Island worth it?

Yes, Catalina Island is worth visiting for its stunning scenery, recreational activities, and unique island charm.

What is Catalina Island known for?

Catalina Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking, and its unique wildlife.

Are there homeless people on Catalina Island?

There is a small homeless population on Catalina Island, mainly around Avalon.

Are there private residences on Catalina Island?

Yes, there are private homes, condos, and estates, mostly around Avalon.

Does Catalina Island have a hospital?

Yes, there is a small hospital, the Catalina Island Medical Center, in Avalon.

Are there bears on Catalina Island?

No, there are no bears on Catalina Island, but there are other animals like bison, deer, and foxes.

Is Catalina Island expensive to visit?

Visiting Catalina Island can be pricey due to transportation and higher costs for accommodations and food.

Is Catalina Island dog-friendly?

Catalina Island is partially dog-friendly, with some restrictions.

Dogs are allowed in the main town of Avalon but must be leashed at all times.
Most beaches prohibit dogs, except for Pebbly Beach.
Many accommodations welcome pets, but it’s crucial to check policies beforehand.
The Catalina Island Conservancy manages the island’s interior and hiking trails, which generally don’t allow dogs.
Ferry services to the island typically permit dogs for an extra fee.