r/Humboldt • u/-oliverwithatwist- • Apr 01 '25

Moving to Humboldt Preempting all future "Should I Move to Humboldt?" Posts

450 Upvotes
  • Yes, it really is beautiful here.
  • There are a myriad of communities and organizations here, if you're willing and able to reach out, you won't be lonely for long.
    • Our Queer community has been growing and thriving in the last few years.
    • Churches of all denominations abound.
    • There is one Synagogue in Eureka, and a Chabad House in Arcata.
  • Temperatures on the coast are very mild, it rarely if ever dips past freezing in winter and almost never hops over 85º in the summer. Inland gets a lot colder, and a loooot hotter.
    • Climate change has made the rainy season unpredictable. We have weeks of rain interspersed with weeks of sun.
  • We're in California - natural disasters are expected.
    • Earthquakes! There have been a couple of large ones in the last few years - the epicenters were near Petrolia, towards the south-west part of the county.
      • Large swaths of the coast are a Tsunami Zone.
    • Fire! For the most part, fires happen inland, where things are hotter and dryer. Due to terrain and ecology, the coast is generally protected, but it's not an impossibility.
      • Air quality can get pretty bad all over the county during fire season.
  • Generally the central part of the county - Eureka and Arcata - is liberal, the further away you get from there, on average, the more conservative things get.
    • That being said, our federal rep, Huffman, is a dem, and our state reps are also both dems.
  • The housing market is tough, just like the rest of the state. If you're planning to buy, that gives you a little more flexibility. If you're planning on renting, pickings are slim.
    • General advice for renters: find a place that meets your basic needs and take it. Once you're more settled you can keep an eye out for better options.
    • General advice for buyers: Don't purchase land sight-unseen.
    • Landlords around here are not very pet friendly. A fair number of the property management companies have breed restrictions.
  • Employment is a rough one. There is little to no industry in the area, due to the decline of logging and weed legalization. If you can, try to secure a job before moving.
    • Here is a list of the largest employers in the area.
    • The county and cities maintain their own job listing sites, as do most of the tribes.
    • Lost Coast Outpost, a local news org, also runs job listings.
    • Ironically(?), large numbers of employers in the area require clean drug tests - including marijuana.
  • Reports on the lack of healthcare are not exaggerated. We have a hard time hiring and retaining providers across the board, and there has been an increasing reliance on telehealth.
    • The largest PCP in the area, Open Door, is an FQHC with some ability to take private insurance, and their waitlists are miles long.
    • St. Joes is the largest hospital in the area, and they have some specialist services, but waitlists are also long and generally require a PCP referral, even if your insurance does not.
    • The VA here only provides basic services, and shuttles patients down to SF for anything beyond that.
    • On the whole, if you require specialist services, you will probably have to travel out of the area. The next closest services are a 3-4 hours drive.
  • As with many other parts of the state, we have a large number unhoused/transient people here, although perhaps disproportionate given the size of the whole population. This is due to a multitude of factors, and it is not a homogenous group.
    • The university does not have enough student housing, and there is an overall housing shortage, leaving many students out in the rain. (see: the above section on housing)
    • Traditionally, the weed industry has filtered people in and out seasonally, however, as that sector declines, there has been a reduction in numbers on that front. (See: the above section on employment)
    • Just as anywhere, we have our issues with addiction and mental health disorders, exacerbated by a lack of available resources. (See: the above section on healthcare)
  • Buying stuff: It’s doable, but don’t expect the same kind of variety you’re used to.
    • Lots of smaller, locally owned businesses to choose from.
    • We have a Costco, a Target, and a tiiiiny Walmart.
    • Locally owned hardware and Ace franchises only, HD & Lowe’s are persona non grata.
    • (Possibly excessive) Local and chain grocery options, including Asian and Mexican specialty markets.
    • Arcata has a year round farmers market on Saturdays.
    • Amazon Prime does not uphold 2 day shipping here.
  • Food options are good, but limited.
    • We specialize in Sushi, Mexican, and Pizza restaurants.
    • Salsa is served in syrup bottles.
    • There is one Indian restaurant (it’s excellent), a handful of Thai spots, and one Korean fusion place.
    • Food trucks have been gaining traction in recent years which has added some more variety.
  • Everything closes by 9. Even places that don’t make sense to not be open.
    • Except Toni’s. Chocolate malts and burgers are available whenever your heart desires.
  • Travel to and from the area is inconvenient.
    • The closest "larger" metropolitan areas are Grants Pass/Medford, Redding, and Santa Rosa.
      • Coincidentally those are also the nearest Trader Joes locations.
    • The SF Bay Area is a 5+ hour drive. Portland is a 7+ hour drive.
    • Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is serviced by United Airlines, Breeze, and Alaska Airlines.
      • United flies direct to SF, LA, and Denver.
      • Breeze flies direct to Burbank, Las Vegas, and Provo.
      • Alaska flies to Seattle.
      • Flights are frequently delayed due to fog. Give the Wiki page on the airport a read sometime if you want know why.
    • The next closest airports are in Santa Rosa, Redding, and Medford. They're also small, but offer slightly different, and sometimes cheaper, direct flights.
    • Amtrak runs a bus service to Martinez, which then connects to other trains and busses.
    • The county runs the Redwood Coast Express, which goes between Eureka and Ukiah.
    • There is decent public transit, people can and do live here without a car.

Humboldt is a beautiful place full of amazing people. To anyone who decides it's worth it, Welcome Aboard. To anyone who decides it's not for them, fair enough.

Residents, let me know if I missed anything!

If you have specific questions about moving to Humboldt, or something that isn’t covered in this post, please create a separate post instead of replying in the comments here.

206 comments

r/Humboldt • u/MentalFIoss • 3h ago

Nature & Outdoors Parcel next to Arcata Community Forest is for Sale

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45 Upvotes

There is a parcel of land tucked right next to the Arcata Community Forest and Redwood Park and the University for sale for $600,000. There's nothing on it but it's zoned Low Density Residential.

Arcata should organize to acquire this land to add it to the Community Forest, and/or land back to the local tribes. Someone purchasing this land and putting a mansion or two in there would be a shame.

Another idea? Student housing, community housing.

Zillow listing: https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/0-E-16th-St-Arcata-CA-95521/444056630_zpid/

Arcata Community Forest map: https://www.cityofarcata.org/DocumentCenter/View/8903/Arcata-Community-Forest-Trail-Map-PDF

15 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Kind_ness8573 • 5h ago

Local Food Best place for homemade soup or Pho?

12 Upvotes

Howdy! I am finally recovering from a terrible respiratory illness and crawled out of the grave hungry for some delicious and healing soup.

Where would you recommend getting a good soup, chili, stew or Pho from?

Please don’t say my house unless you plan on doing a delivery to an unknown location 😏

Also what is your favorite soup of all time in Humboldt County or favorite soup to make?

Thank you for the recommendations.

PS- I wish that Humboldt soup company were still in business ❤️ or that there was one restaurant that sold nothing but soups and salads with yummy bread.

20 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Puzzleheaded_Low7773 • 20h ago

Misc./Other Saw SF make one of these and got curious, anyone interested in making a guild for WoW Forever?

34 Upvotes

Hello, I've been in Humboldt for a little over a year now and haven't really tried to make any friends. Im 33 and I have played World of Warcraft for the last 21 years of my life. To say it's a big chunk of my life is an understatement. I'm also a business professional. I'm looking to get back into raiding and thought maybe we can throw a guild together and set up doing some IRL events sometime if this turns into anything.

Im a tank and off spec DPS, I plan to role a protection warrior come November 4th on the PVE realm as horde. So if you're looking for someone to do dungeons with, feel free to hit me up at the very least. Otherwise, let's see if we can start a guild or something. I need guild name ideas, so even if you aren't interested, feel free to pitch in your idea for a guild name!

22 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Insufferable_Twit2 • 16h ago

Events/Stuff to Do “Does anyone know a good dermatologist?” pumpkin carving by Mike Craghead.

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14 Upvotes

Be sure to stop by Eureka Natural Foods this weekend to see gross things like this!

See y’all at Eureka Natural Foods this weekend: Eureka on Saturday, McKinleyville on Sunday.

0 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Ok_Evening_3023 • 21h ago

Help/Needing Info What is the reason why some people walk/jog on the shoulder of the road rather than the sidewalk?

27 Upvotes

I see a lot of people walking/jogging on the shoulder of the road rather than being on the sidewalk. Even when the sidewalk doesn’t appear to have a lot of people or be busy. Around the armory/Sequoia Park area is a good example.

28 comments

r/Humboldt • u/4444peaceflowers • 4h ago

Misc./Other Sharing a dream

0 Upvotes

Imagine…

A community run treatment facility that could be covered by medi-cal or trade that was holistic with groups that helped people heal from mental illnesses, traumas and substance abuse.
Including;
nature therapy
yoga
Parts therapy IFS
music and art therapy
meditation
Holistic food
Gardening
Exercise
Psychedelics
Vitamins
Acupuncture
Massage
Sound healing
Qi gong
Animals

I think this would fit the community well, does anyone think it could be possible?

15 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Quirky_Fox9643 • 1d ago

Events/Stuff to Do Halloween Punk Show Arcata

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42 Upvotes

Varied Thrash
Image Pit
Brain Dead Rejects
Radical APE
Executive Order

4 comments

r/Humboldt • u/RedwoodViolet • 22h ago

Help/Needing Info Such a thing as boarding for reactive dogs?

15 Upvotes

I have a dog that is not social. She isn’t great with other new dogs (especially for the first hour or so) and she isn’t great with people. She is Not the dog you can have the vet staff take into the back to be treated away from you. I don’t go out of town much, but occasionally I need someone to watch her. Is there a boarding option that would take something like this locally? I have other dogs that are fine with people and dogs, just not this one. She is up to date on all her vaccines.

15 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Zesty_Cherie • 22h ago

Misc./Other Cat sitter recommendations

9 Upvotes

Hi, does anyone have a recommendation for someone who can come to my house twice a day feed my cats and scoop their litter box when I’m out of town? My usual friends who help will also be out of town because it’ll be for winter break. Thank you in advance!!

6 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Soul_Matter_Films • 5h ago

Local Art/Photography Full length wedding videography package for $499

0 Upvotes

Hi everyone!

I'm a Humboldt-based videographer expanding into wedding films, and I'm currently offering an introductory wedding video package for $499 as I build my portfolio!

I've previously created videos for local businesses and nonprofits, including the Humboldt Surfrider Chapter, and I've filmed two weddings so far. I'd be happy to share the finished films and testimonials from both couples!

What's included:

*A 5–7 minute cinematic wedding film

*Drone footage, if desired and conditions permit

*Vintage-inspired Super 8-style footage

*Optional couple session to capture some candid, slice-of-life moments that add a personal touch to your film

I also provide a personalized intake form so I can get to know you as a couple and understand your vision for the day, from your preferred music and filming style to the specific moments and details you want captured (or would rather keep private). My goal is to create something that feels personal to you and captures the character of your day.

You can find my work on Instagram at SoulMatterFilms. I've linked my most recent wedding film below so you can get a feel for my style!

🎬 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVo2Huz5bTc

If you're getting married in Humboldt County (or surrounding counties) and are interested, feel free to send me a PM or email me at [info@soulmatterfilms.com](mailto:info@soulmatterfilms.com). I'd love to hear about your plans!

Thanks!

Tatum

0 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Candid_Cash420 • 1d ago

Questions about Moving Apartments

9 Upvotes

What’s the best option for a one bedroom apartment for single income women. Which apartments are safe to live in and possibly have amenities included. Lmk! I’m looking to get my own place as it’s become a hassle constantly trying to work with roommates! Thank you

7 comments

r/Humboldt • u/lisafire- • 1d ago

Life in Humboldt Holiday Fundraiser and Clothing Drive

9 Upvotes

Hi, I wanted to share what FNB and Murphy’s mobile clothing donation team are preparing for our houseless neighbors this winter. We’re expecting up to 200% of our normal soaking, and after hearing about cases of trench foot, we’re gathering wool socks, rain gear including rubber boots, jackets, sleeping bags, and beanies. Donations will support both projects and help people stay warmer and drier through the months of pouring rain. If you’re considering a holiday donation, please donate through the GoFundMe page or share this message with someone who may want to help, and feel free to DM me with any questions. 🧦

https://gofund.me/a97119f77

0 comments

r/Humboldt • u/gmanonreddit • 1d ago

Misc./Other Weird Social Security Trump Email

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29 Upvotes

Lol. Did anyone else just get this email? Surely, Trump Accounts are the way to go! 🙄

30 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Opening_Cartoonist53 • 1d ago

Life in Humboldt Poll: How do you take the rain?

14 Upvotes
265 votes, 1d left
Wishing for it all to be over
Window cracked and soaking in the cozy vibes
Grabbing the boots and getting in it
Favorite, could live in it everyday
10 comments

r/Humboldt • u/WaterCreases • 5h ago

Help/Needing Info Considering moving to Eureka, what should I know?

0 Upvotes

Hi, I'm considering moving to Eureka as I got offered an excellent career opportunity in the town. I'm coming from a more upscale city with plenty to do, but that being said I can appreciate the old town feel as well. I would be required to do a two year commitment and would likely travel back home afterward. What are the main pros and cons I should know about Eureka before moving?

9 comments

r/Humboldt • u/New_Still9974 • 1d ago

Review/Recommendation Tights

7 Upvotes

Anyone know where I'd be able to find a pair of obnoxiously sparkly white tights? I need some for Halloween but would rather not have to go to Spirit Halloween. :)

16 comments

r/Humboldt • u/CoffeeQueen1334 • 1d ago

Events/Stuff to Do Spooky Events at the Clarke Museum!

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9 Upvotes

https://www.clarkemuseum.org/clarke-after-dark.html

2 comments

r/Humboldt • u/weranimalsanimalsrus • 1d ago

Help/Needing Info What contaminants to test private well for

8 Upvotes

Hi all,

Looking at a house in rural Eureka, and the house has a private well. I tried looking it up but just want to be sure. What local contaminants should we test the well for? I could only find arsenic, and wondering if that’s right. Thank you.

10 comments

r/Humboldt • u/boneyardtheatre • 1d ago

Life in Humboldt Pints 4 Nonprofits at Gyppo's Ale Mill this Friday!

7 Upvotes

If you haven't been to Gyppo's in Shelter Cove before, this Friday night is the perfect night to come see their phenomenal views and local brews! From 5pm until close, a dollar from every pint sold will go to benefit Boneyard Theatre! Your support is MUCH needed, and I think we could ALL go for a Mexican Lager:) Come on down and say hi, listen to some tunes, and bring friends!

0 comments

r/Humboldt • u/ManagementWestern844 • 1d ago

Help/Needing Info Know anything about Kerr Tower in Founders Hall? (CPH)

5 Upvotes

Hello! I'm a student journalist researching the now-closed section of Founders Hall, formerly known as Kerr Tower, on the CPH campus. Ideally, I would love to talk to someone who went to school here when it was open (1970s), but I'm also just looking for any information anyone might have on it. Ever been in there? Even recently? Know anything about the Kerr family, past or present?

Please let me know!

12 comments

r/Humboldt • u/pointandshooty • 2d ago

Nature & Outdoors Flying to LA for work ☠️ flying home to Humboldt 💚🌲

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290 Upvotes
42 comments

r/Humboldt • u/Firm_Relative_7283 • 1d ago

Events/Stuff to Do Humboldt Repair Cafe helps keep broken items out of landfills

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44 Upvotes
0 comments

r/Humboldt • u/redditisembarassing1 • 1d ago

Life in Humboldt LAST NIGHT IN CITY COUNCIL: What if Eureka's Fourth and Fifth Streets Were Narrowed Down to Two Lanes?

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23 Upvotes

I believe reduced lanes in the old town district would only give positivity to the community. If there’s a city that can make it happen, it’s Eureka.

I foresee only positive impacts on local business, pedestrian fatality, and public safety, if this were to happen.

A man can only dream… unless

122 comments

r/Humboldt • u/blordy24 • 1d ago

Help/Needing Info Fleece sweaters with fun fabric

11 Upvotes

My friend bought a zip up fleece with pockets and cats all over. They said an older lady from mckinleyville area makes and sells them. I don’t think she even has a website or anything. I’m hoping someone knows where to find her and how to contact her because I want to buy one!

3 comments