Monterey, situated on California's Central Coast, combines coastal beauty with historical significance. Housing options range from historic adobes in Old Monterey to apartments near Cannery Row, with one-bedroom units averaging $2,106 per month, reflecting a 1.9% annual increase. The Monterey Bay Aquarium stands at the heart of Cannery Row, while downtown features preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Residents enjoy the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where sea otters, seals, and migrating whales can be spotted from coastal paths and beaches.
The city's distinct neighborhoods, including New Monterey and Del Monte, connect residents to both city conveniences and coastal attractions. As home to the Naval Postgraduate School and Defense Language Institute, Monterey serves as an international education hub. The city celebrates arts and culture through events like the Monterey Jazz Festival and honors its literary heritage, particularly its connection to John Steinbeck.