Moving to Santa Clara County? Here’s How to Find Jobs and Housing Beyond Big Tech

Santa Clara County, often synonymous with Silicon Valley, is globally recognized as the epicenter of technology and innovation. However, while tech giants like Apple, Google, and Meta dominate headlines, the region is rich with alternative industries, diverse career paths, and varied housing options that cater to professionals beyond the tech sector.

For those looking to move to the area but hesitant about the high cost of living and the tech-centric job market, this guide explores alternative job sectors, affordable housing solutions, and vibrant communities throughout Santa Clara County.

Expanding Beyond Tech: Alternative Industries in Santa Clara County

While Silicon Valley is known for software development and venture capital, a variety of industries contribute to the region’s economic landscape:

1. Healthcare and Biotechnology

The demand for healthcare professionals is at an all-time high, with leading institutions such as Stanford Health Care and Kaiser Permanente offering employment in nursing, research, and medical technology. Additionally, biotech companies like Gilead Sciences and Roche are major employers in the region.

2. Education and Public Sector Jobs

Santa Clara County’s universities and school districts provide numerous job opportunities. San Jose State University, Santa Clara University, and the local community college network hire faculty, administrative staff, and student support personnel. Government positions within the County of Santa Clara also offer stable careers in public service, law enforcement, and urban planning.

3. Renewable Energy & Sustainability

As California leads the nation in sustainability efforts, companies focused on clean energy, such as Bloom Energy and Tesla’s energy division, are expanding. Roles in engineering, operations, and environmental science are in demand.

4. Advanced Manufacturing & Aerospace

Manufacturing hasn’t disappeared from Silicon Valley—it has evolved. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Jabil specialize in aerospace and precision manufacturing, creating job opportunities for engineers, machinists, and supply chain managers.

5. Arts, Entertainment, and Hospitality

With a growing arts and culture scene, Santa Clara County is home to theaters, museums, and music venues, providing employment in event management, marketing, and creative fields. Additionally, the hospitality sector is booming with hotels, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses.

Affordable Housing Options in Santa Clara County

Finding reasonably priced housing in the Bay Area can be a challenge, but some neighborhoods and housing programs make it more accessible.

1. Affordable Neighborhoods in San Jose

While downtown San Jose is growing rapidly, neighborhoods such as Evergreen, Berryessa, and Alum Rock offer relatively more affordable housing. These areas provide access to parks, good schools, and public transit.

2. Expanding to Surrounding Cities

Santa Clara County’s suburban cities, such as Gilroy, Morgan Hill, and Milpitas, offer more affordable housing than central Silicon Valley. These areas provide a quieter lifestyle while still offering a reasonable commute to job centers.

3. First-Time Homebuyer & Assistance Programs

Santa Clara County offers housing assistance programs such as:

• Below Market Rate (BMR) Housing – Enables qualifying buyers to purchase homes at a discounted price.

• Down Payment Assistance Programs – Helps first-time buyers with upfront home costs.

• Section 8 & Workforce Housing Programs – Offers rental assistance and affordable housing opportunities for those earning below the median income.

Living in Santa Clara County: Work-Life Balance and Community Perks

Beyond jobs and housing, Santa Clara County offers a vibrant lifestyle with ample outdoor activities, cultural diversity, and a strong sense of community.

1. Outdoor and Recreational Activities

With access to stunning parks such as Alum Rock Park, the Los Gatos Creek Trail, and the Santa Cruz Mountains, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and weekend getaways.

2. Cultural Diversity and Food Scene

Santa Clara County is home to a rich blend of cultures, reflected in its world-class dining scene. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican food in East San Jose, Vietnamese cuisine in Little Saigon, or fine dining in Palo Alto, there’s something for every taste.

3. Education and Family-Friendly Amenities

With some of the top-rated school districts in California, including Cupertino Union and Palo Alto Unified, families moving to Santa Clara County will find excellent education options. Additionally, community centers, libraries, and parks enhance family life.

Conclusion

While Santa Clara County is synonymous with tech, it is also home to diverse career opportunities and accessible housing options. Whether you’re seeking an alternative industry, an affordable place to live, or a community that suits your lifestyle, this guide proves that you don’t need to be a software engineer to thrive in Silicon Valley.

For personalized guidance in finding your ideal home, connect with Block Change Real Estate, your trusted partner in navigating Santa Clara County’s housing market.