The region has undergone tremendous economic growth since the 1980s. The change in landscape is most evident at the Santa Clara County end of the district, in cities such as Cupertino, Mountain View and Sunnyvale, where apricot and cherry orchards once were common. Most of the district's residents live in cities at the geographical center of the district, between Interstate 280 and U.S. Route 101, including Redwood City, Mountain View and Palo Alto. Sixty percent of the district lives in Santa Clara County. As a new major metropolitan center, the region is dealing with the consequences of a sustained boom.
Traffic congestion is common and real estate prices are among the highest in the nation.
The economic fortunes of the area have put growth issues and education at the top of the district's political agenda. The 14th's voters traditionally have been pragmatic, favoring solution-seeking, moderate Republican candidates.