California / Humboldt County

Moving to Arcata, CA

Thinking of making a move to Arcata, CA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Arcata, CA

Considering a move to Arcata, CA? This welcoming community of 18,857 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $449,000 and average rents near $1,320. Commute times average 15 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (58% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Arcata's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Arcata, CA

Arcata has a population of 18,857 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 27 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 75% White, 1% Black, and 4% Asian residents, and over 9% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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. Median home values are around $449,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,320. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 478 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 32. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in California.

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 experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 65°F and cold winters dipping to 41°F. The area receives about 46 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 58% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
41°F
Max
54°F

Summer

Min
51°F
Max
65°F

Spring

Min
46°F
Max
59°F

Fall

Min
46°F
Max
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches
46.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
58%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $39,500 and a low poverty rate of 32.8%. Over 92% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 38% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 15 minutes, and almost 4% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Arcata Elementary School and Arcata High School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Cal Poly Humboldt (formerly Humboldt State University). The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Arcata residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Mad River Community Hospital and St. Joseph Hospital Eureka nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and 90.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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 local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $449,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 34%. The market has seen a 2.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 5.8%. Arcata offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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 handle vehicle services through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Eureka. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
California
Department
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
3226 Broadway, Eureka, CA 95501
Phone
1-800-777-0133

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.

FAQs About Moving to Arcata, CA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Arcata, review the core fields on this page: population 18,857, median home value $449,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,320, commute time 15.2 minutes, and sunny days percentage 58%.

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