20 Fun Facts About San Jose California

San Jose is the largest city in Northern California and the 10th largest city in the United States. This vibrant metropolis has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike. Here are 20 fun facts to know about San Jose:

1. San Jose is the third-largest city in California behind Los Angeles and San Diego. It’s the largest city in Northern California.
2. With a population of over 1 million people, San Jose is the 10th most populous city in America.
3. San Jose was founded on November 29, 1777 as El Pueblo de San José de Guadalupe. It was the first civilian settlement in Alta California.
4. The city is located in the San Jose Valley of Santa Clara County. San Jose covers 178 square miles in area.
5. Its Mediterranean climate makes San Jose one of the best places to live in the United States. The average temperature is 70 degrees.
6. San Jose was named the capital of California briefly in 1849 before the capital was moved to Vallejo and then to Benicia.
7. The Winchester Mystery House is one of San Jose’s most famous landmarks. Sarah Winchester built the sprawling mansion with 160 rooms to confuse spirits.
8. San Jose is home to the largest concentration of technology expertise in the world. It’s nicknamed “Capital of Silicon Valley.”
9. The San Jose International Airport was one of the first commercial airports in the United States when it opened in 1945.
10. Over 40% of San Jose’s population is foreign born. Residents speak over 56 different languages.
11. Highways 85, 87, 101, 280, 680, and 880 all run through the city. San Jose has an extensive transportation infrastructure.
12. The San Jose Sharks NHL hockey team plays at the SAP Center. The arena can hold over 17,000 fans.
13. More patents come out of San Jose each year than any other city in America. Innovation thrives in the city.
14. San Jose is home to the largest Mexican independence celebration in Northern California during September.
15. The San Jose Museum of Art is one of the finest modern art museums in the western United States.
16. Over 27% of San Jose’s workforce is involved in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) professions.
17. The scenic Silver Creek runs through San Jose and is home to Chinook salmon and steelhead trout.
18. San Jose ranks in the top 10 safest big cities in America in terms of violent crime and property crime.
19. The San Jose Light Tower was originally built in 1881 but was rebuilt and relit downtown in 2007.
20. Santa Clara University, the first university in California, was founded in San Jose in 1851.

San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley and a hub for innovation and diversity. With its Mediterranean climate, booming economy, and vibrant culture, it’s easy to see why San Jose is one of the best places to live and visit in California.