Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Alturas, CA
Considering a move to Alturas, CA? This small town of 2,669 residents offers affordable living with median home prices around $148,000 and average rents well below state averages. Expect short commutes of under 12 minutes, a sunny high-desert climate with 78% sunny days, and easy access to outdoor recreation. Crime rates are moderate, and while educational attainment is modest, the community provides local K-8 schools and a distance learning center. Healthcare, basic amenities, and a relaxed pace make Alturas a practical choice for those seeking a rural California lifestyle.
Demographics - Alturas, CA
Demographics - Alturas, CA
Alturas is a small city with a population of about 2,669, characterized by a predominantly White community and a median age of 45.3. The gender ratio is balanced, and roughly 10% of residents speak a language other than English, reflecting a modest level of diversity. Its population density offers a close-knit, small-town feel ideal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
2,669
Density:
1,120 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
10.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.6%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
16.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Alturas, CA?
The cost of living in Alturas is notably below the national average, with a median home value of $148,000 and average rents at $770. Housing costs are particularly affordable, though utility expenses are slightly above average. Residents benefit from lower overall expenses, making Alturas an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$148,000
Gross Rent:
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,325
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
90.5
Grocery:
99.8
Housing:
58.3
Utilities:
112.0
Transportation:
104.0
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
97.2
Crime
Is Alturas, CA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Alturas are moderate, with a violent crime rate of 255 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 1,655 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a property crime is about 1 in 60, which is important to consider for new residents. Overall, safety is typical of a rural California town.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
255
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,655
Crime Index:
1,910
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 392
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 60
Weather
What is the weather like in Alturas, CA year-round?
Alturas enjoys a high-desert climate with 78% sunny days annually and moderate rainfall around 12.7 inches per year. Winters can be cold with lows near 19°F, while summers are warm, reaching highs of 86°F. The city offers distinct seasons and plenty of sunshine, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
46°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
78%
Neighbors
Local households in Alturas have a median income of $35,900, with a poverty rate just under 20%. Most residents commute less than 12 minutes to work, and over 80% have at least a high school diploma. The community is small, friendly, and values a relaxed, rural pace of life.
Median Income:
$25,700
Household Income:
$35,900
Family Income:
$42,500
Per Capita Income:
$19,140
Income Male:
$34,000
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
19.8%
Non English Speakers:
10.2%
Rent:
$770
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
11.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.7%
Bachelors or More:
15.5%
Education
How are the schools in Alturas, CA?
Alturas provides local K-8 public schools, including Alturas Elementary and Modoc Middle School, both with manageable student-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools, higher education options are available via a distance learning center and nearby colleges such as Shasta College in Redding. Educational attainment is modest, but core educational needs are met within the community.
Public Schools
Name:
Alturas Elementary School
Street:
809 W 12th St
Phone:
530-233-7201
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.4
Name:
Modoc Middle School
Street:
906 W 4th St
Phone:
530-233-7201
Students:
240
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.6
Colleges
Name:
College of the Siskiyous (Distance Learning Center)
City:
Alturas
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
N/A
Name:
Shasta College
City:
Redding
State:
CA
Distance:
120 miles
Students:
8,500
Healthcare
Alturas is served by Modoc Medical Center, providing general and emergency care to the area. With about 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic healthcare needs are well met locally. Residents have access to essential medical services without the congestion of bigger cities.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Modoc Medical Center
Address:
228 W McDowell Ave, Alturas, CA 96101
Phone:
(530) 233-5131
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.1%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Alturas, CA?
Alturas offers an affordable housing market, with a median home price of $148,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $770. Homeownership is common, with nearly two-thirds of residents owning their homes, and vacancy rates are moderate. The market is stable, with slow but steady appreciation and low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$148,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$770
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Alturas residents access DMV services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles office located on North Main Street. The local branch offers standard vehicle registration, licensing, and identification services, making it convenient for drivers in the city. Helpful resources are also available online through the state's DMV website.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1035 N Main St, Alturas, CA 96101
Phone:
1-800-777-0133
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.