Valley Center is a community in transition from a small rural town to a suburban “bedroom” community. This transition has been underway for several years. This has resulted in some agriculture, such as large fruit orchards, giving way to housing development. The growth of Valley Center has been slowed by lower densities including a minimum of 2 acres (8,100 m2) being required for most parcels. However, with San Diego County’s GP2020 Plan[4], currently being discussed, the densities in a few areas of Valley Center will be changed from a minimum of 2 acres (8,100 m2) per parcel to much higher densities. This would allow the population to expand, particularly in the town’s central area. Even with current growth it is reasonable to characterize the town as “semi-rural”.

Some changes in the community can be attributed to the expansion of Indian casinos in the area. There are currently two major casinos in the vicinity of Valley Center – Harrah’s Rincon and Valley View; both were opened in 2001-02, bringing traffic and jobs to what used to be an out-of-the-way agricultural town. High traffic necessitated highway improvements, partially paid by casino contributions.

Despite these changes, there are still no chain department stores in the community; residents do their shopping in smaller “mom and pop” stores or drive to Escondido.

Once a year, parts of the city are closed down for an event known as Valley Center Western Days. This event is traditionally held over the Memorial Day weekend and consists of a community parade, a gathering at the Valley Center Community Center and a rodeo. Another event of particular interest is the Lavender Harvest Festival at Key Creek Lavender Farm[5]. This USDA Certified Organic Lavender Farm opens its doors to the public during the height of the bloom season. Features include an on site essential oil distillery, a lavender labyrinth and a farm store/gift shop.