The City of Salinas is the 34th largest City in the state with a population of approximately 155,205. Salinas is located in beautiful Monterey County, California, just 40 minutes south of the heart of the nation’s high-tech industry, Silicon Valley. As the city with the largest population in California’s Central Coast, Salinas is a multicultural and diverse community and a key asset in today’s global economy. The region also boasts spectacular scenery, from breathtaking mountains and valleys, to the beauty of the sun, sand, sea and soil. With world-class events that take place in the city each year, such as the California Air Show and California Rodeo Salinas, and world-renowned amenities right next door, including the Pebble Beach Golf Resort and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Salinas is a place that truly has it all. The city is also home to a wealth of cultural and historic assets, including the National Steinbeck Center – the only museum in the country devoted to a single author - along with Steinbeck’s family home. Salinas is the birthplace of John Steinbeck. Although agriculture forms the economic base, more than 100 manufacturing, financial, and medical related firms call Salinas home. Salinas has a global reputation as an agriculture and innovation hub. It is a source for agricultural research and resources and is developing the latest technology and advancements. Visitors can also explore the nearby Monterey Peninsula: the historic missions of San Juan Bautista, Soledad, Carmel and San Antonio de Padua, the world class wineries of South Monterey County and the beauty of nearby beaches and Pinnacles National Monument.