Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Arcata, CA
Thinking of moving to Arcata, CA? With a vibrant college-town vibe and a population of 18,857, Arcata offers affordable rents ($1,320 for a 2-bedroom) and a mild coastal climate with 58% sunny days. While the median home price sits around $449,000, the city boasts quick commutes (15 minutes on average) and easy access to nature. Education is anchored by Cal Poly Humboldt and local schools, though property crime rates are higher than average. Explore the unique blend of laid-back living, culture, and outdoor adventure Arcata has to offer.
Demographics - Arcata, CA
Demographics - Arcata, CA
Arcata is home to approximately 18,857 residents, with a youthful median age of 26.9 years, reflecting its college-town atmosphere. The city is predominantly White at 74.5%, with a mix of other ethnic groups and nearly 9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a diverse and lively community.
Population:
18,857
Density:
2,500 per sq mi
Median Age:
26.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.7%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.5%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
4.1%
Others:
20.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Arcata, CA?
The cost of living in Arcata is higher than the national average, with a Cost of Living Index of 125.4. The median home value is around $449,000, while average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,320, making housing the largest expense for residents. Utilities and groceries are moderately priced, and California state taxes can range from 1% to 13.3%.
Median House Value:
$449,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,650
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$2,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$740
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
125.4
Grocery:
112.1
Housing:
134.8
Utilities:
110.5
Transportation:
124.0
Health Care:
107.2
Miscellaneous:
113.0
Crime
Is Arcata, CA a safe place to live?
Arcata experiences higher-than-average property crime, with the chance of being a victim at about 1 in 32, while violent crime remains less common at 1 in 209. The overall crime index indicates residents should remain vigilant, especially regarding property security. Despite this, many enjoy the city's active lifestyle and sense of community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
478
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,150
Crime Index:
3,628
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 209
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 32
Weather
What is the weather like in Arcata, CA year-round?
Arcata features a mild coastal climate, with summer highs rarely exceeding 65°F and winter temperatures staying above 41°F. The city receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine around 58% of the year. This temperate weather supports year-round outdoor activities and lush scenery.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
65°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $39,500, with a notable poverty rate of 32.8%, reflecting a significant student population. Education levels are high, with over 92% having completed high school and 38% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Residents typically experience short commutes, averaging just over 15 minutes, and a small percentage use public transit.
Median Income:
$22,900
Household Income:
$39,500
Family Income:
$58,700
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$27,200
Income Female:
$23,100
Poverty Rate:
32.8%
Non English Speakers:
8.7%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
6.4%
Public Transport Usage:
4.3%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
38.2%
Education
How are the schools in Arcata, CA?
Arcata offers a robust educational environment, from public schools like Arcata Elementary and Arcata High to private options such as Redwood Coast Montessori. The city is anchored by Cal Poly Humboldt, a major university with about 5,700 students, adding to the vibrant academic community. Families and students benefit from diverse schooling choices and higher education opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Arcata Elementary School
Street:
2400 Baldwin St
Phone:
707-822-0351
Students:
510
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.7
Name:
Arcata High School
Street:
1720 M St
Phone:
707-825-2400
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.4
Private Schools
Name:
Redwood Coast Montessori
Street:
1611 Peninsula Dr
Phone:
707-832-4194
Students:
320
Colleges
Name:
Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State University)
City:
Arcata
State:
CA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Arcata is supported by facilities like Mad River Community Hospital and nearby St. Joseph Hospital Eureka, both offering emergency services. The city has about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 90% of locals have health insurance coverage. Overall, healthcare services are readily available for most needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mad River Community Hospital
Address:
3800 Janes Rd, Arcata, CA 95521
Phone:
(707) 822-3621
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
St. Joseph Hospital Eureka
Address:
2700 Dolbeer St, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone:
(707) 445-8121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
75.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Arcata, CA?
The Arcata housing market centers around a median home price of $449,000 and an average two-bedroom rent of $1,320. Homeownership is less common, with only about 34% of residents owning their homes, reflecting a strong rental market. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates indicate relative stability for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$449,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
34.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Residents of Arcata are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles office in nearby Eureka, conveniently located at 3226 Broadway. This DMV location offers a full range of driver and vehicle services, and appointments can be made online or by phone. Easy access to DMV resources ensures efficient handling of licensing and registration needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3226 Broadway, Eureka, CA 95501
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.