Farming in Ventura County: Crops, Revenue, Top Farms & Local Produce Stands
Agriculture is a cornerstone of Ventura County’s identity. From the sprawling strawberry fields of Oxnard to the avocado groves in the Santa Clara River Valley, farming is both an economic engine and a cultural hallmark. Fertile soil, a favorable coastal climate, and multi-generational farming families help make Ventura County one of California’s most productive agricultural regions. Here, agriculture is more than an industry—it’s a way of life that shapes the county’s economy, culture, and landscape.
Crops Near Potrero Road in Camarillo, CA
Ventura County produces a remarkable diversity of crops that supply local markets, national grocery chains, and export destinations around the world. High-value crops such as strawberries, avocados, lemons, and nursery stock thrive alongside specialty vegetables and berries, all nurtured by the region’s varied microclimates. Local farms range from large-scale commercial operations like Reiter Affiliated Companies and Limoneira to small family-owned stands and U-Pick farms, offering fresh, high-quality produce to residents and visitors alike. Alongside these farms, a vibrant network of farmers markets and roadside stands makes it easy for locals and tourists to experience the county’s rich agricultural heritage firsthand. Agriculture in Ventura County supports thousands of jobs, contributes billions of dollars in annual revenue, and preserves open space amid rapid urban growth, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the 805 region’s identity.
Ventura County Agriculture by the Numbers
- Total annual agricultural value: ~$2.31 billion (2024)
- State ranking: Top 10 agricultural counties
- Farms: Over 2,000 operations
- Crop varieties grown: More than 95 types
Agriculture supports thousands of local jobs, drives export activity, and supplies fresh produce nationwide and internationally. The industry also preserves open space and maintains Ventura County’s rural character.
Top Crops in Ventura County by Revenue
Strawberries
- Annual value: ~$708 million
- Ventura County has been the #1 U.S. strawberry producer for over 25 years.
- Major growing areas: Oxnard Plain, Camarillo, Somis
Strawberries dominate Ventura County’s agricultural landscape. The region’s mild coastal climate allows multiple harvests per year, making strawberries a reliable, high-value crop. They are sold fresh locally, exported across the U.S., and processed into jams and packaged fruit products.
Avocados
- Annual value: ~$338 million
- Ventura County is a leading avocado-producing region in the U.S., especially for the Hass variety.
- Growing regions: Santa Paula, Ojai Valley, Oxnard hillsides
Avocados are grown on hillside groves throughout Ventura County. Large-scale growers supply supermarkets nationwide, while boutique farms sell directly at farmers markets and roadside stands. Ventura avocados are prized for their quality and flavor.
Nursery Stock
- Annual value: ~$186 million
Nursery stock includes ornamental plants, landscaping trees, and greenhouse-grown flowers. Ventura County nursery businesses supply regional landscapers, retail garden centers, and export markets.
Other High-Value Crops
Lemons, celery, raspberries, blackberries, peppers, tomatoes, and lettuce. The county’s microclimates allow specialty crops to thrive year-round, supporting both local consumption and export markets.
Geographic Farming Regions
- Oxnard Plain: Intensive row-crop region, famous for strawberries, celery, and peppers.
- Santa Clara River Valley: Citrus, avocados, and row crops stretching through Santa Paula and Fillmore.
- Ojai Valley: Boutique citrus, olive oil, and avocado production.
- Somis & Camarillo: Mixed farming including berries, lemons, nursery stock, and vegetables.
Top Farms & Agricultural Operations
Reiter Affiliated Companies — Oxnard
Reiter is one of the world’s largest berry producers, specializing in strawberries and raspberries. The company partners with hundreds of local growers, maintains its own packing and distribution facilities, and supplies produce nationally and internationally. Reiter also operates agritourism programs, including farm tours and seasonal berry-picking events.
Mission Produce — Oxnard
Mission Produce is a global leader in avocado production, packing, and distribution. The company operates large-scale groves and processing facilities, supplying both fresh and processed avocados worldwide. Mission emphasizes sustainability and has invested in water-efficient irrigation systems to reduce environmental impact.
Limoneira Company — Santa Paula
Founded in the late 1800s, Limoneira is a historic citrus and avocado producer. The company owns thousands of acres of lemon, avocado, and orange groves and maintains packing operations for domestic and export markets. Limoneira also engages in community outreach, including farm tours, agritourism, and educational programs for local schools.
Calavo Growers — Santa Paula
Calavo Growers specializes in avocado and other specialty fruit distribution. The company collaborates with local farms and operates large-scale packing facilities to maintain quality control. Calavo is known for global export operations, providing Ventura County produce to markets across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Plantel Nurseries — Oxnard
Plantel is a leading producer of ornamental plants, including shrubs, trees, and greenhouse flowers. The nursery supplies retailers, landscapers, and local governments, with a focus on sustainable production practices. Plantel is a major employer in Oxnard and contributes significantly to the county’s nursery stock revenue.
Why Agriculture Is Critical to Ventura County
- Economic Impact: Agriculture is a $2+ billion industry supporting local economies.
- Employment: Farming, packing, shipping, and processing provide thousands of regional jobs.
- Global Exports: Ventura County produce reaches more than 70 countries.
- Land Preservation: Programs like SOAR protect farmland from urban development.
- Food Supply: The county provides key fruits and vegetables for national markets, including berries, citrus, and leafy greens.
Top Fruits & Vegetables Grown Locally
Fruits: Strawberries, avocados, lemons, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, oranges
Vegetables: Celery, peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, cabbage, parsley, cilantro
Ventura County’s diversity in crops allows both large-scale production and specialty markets, including organic and boutique offerings.
Photo by Shelley Pauls on Unsplash
Farmers Markets in Ventura County — By City
Camarillo
Camarillo Certified Farmers Market – Saturdays, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, Old Town Camarillo at 2220 Ventura Blvd.
Ojai
Ojai Certified Farmers Market – Sundays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Downtown Ojai at 300 E. Matilija St.
Ojai Community Farmers Market – Thursdays, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM, 414 E. Ojai Ave (seasonal).
Oxnard
Channel Islands Harbor Farmers Market – Sundays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 3600 S. Harbor Blvd.
Downtown Oxnard Farmers Market – Thursdays, 9:00 AM – 1:30 PM, Plaza Park at 5th & C Streets.
Ventura
Downtown Ventura Certified Farmers Market – Saturdays, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM, Main Street.
Midtown Ventura Farmers Market – Wednesdays, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM, Pacific View Mall west parking lot.
Saticoy Farmers Market – Sundays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 11321 Violeta St.
Simi Valley
Simi Valley Certified Farmers Market – Fridays, 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM, Simi Civic Center Plaza.
Thousand Oaks
Thousand Oaks Certified Farmers Market – Thursdays, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM, The Oaks Shopping Center.
Westlake Village
Westlake Village Certified Farmers Market – Sundays, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 2797 Agoura Rd.
Santa Paula
Santa Paula Certified Farmers Market – Fridays, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM, 200 N. 10th St.
Tips for Visiting: Arrive early for the best produce. Many markets accept SNAP/EBT and WIC FMNP. Seasonal offerings vary by market, and some host live music, cooking demos, and community events.
View all Farmers Markets
Best Farm Stands & Produce Markets
Farm Stands
- Underwood Family Farms (Thousand Oaks): Pick-your-own produce, seasonal festivals, educational programs.
- McGrath Family Farm (Ojai): Organic produce, farm tours, CSA subscription boxes.
- Tierra Rejada Ranch (Moorpark): Seasonal strawberries, pumpkins, and roadside sales.
- Las Posas Berries Farm Stand (Camarillo): Fresh strawberries and berries.
The Future of Farming in Ventura County
Challenges: rising labor and production costs, water scarcity, wildfires, and crop diseases. Opportunities: technology adoption, sustainable farming practices, agritourism, and boutique crop production. Ventura County farms are adapting to ensure long-term sustainability and economic growth.
Agriculture in Ventura County is more than an industry—it’s a way of life. From billion-dollar strawberry fields to family-run roadside stands, farming drives the county’s economy, culture, and cuisine. Supporting local farms preserves open space, strengthens the regional economy, and maintains Ventura County’s agricultural legacy.