Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Atwater, CA
Considering a move to Atwater, CA? With a population of just over 31,000, Atwater offers affordable housing with a median home price around $343,000 and average rents near $1,320. Residents enjoy a sunny climate (79% sunny days), manageable commutes averaging 27 minutes, and nearby educational opportunities including public schools and Merced College. While crime rates are higher than average, the town features a diverse community and lower cost of living compared to much of California, making it a practical choice for families and newcomers alike.
Demographics - Atwater, CA
Demographics - Atwater, CA
Atwater, CA is home to just over 31,000 residents, with a youthful median age of 31.2 and a dense, diverse community where nearly half identify with ethnicities other than White, Black, or Asian. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a significant portion of non-English speakers, reflecting its multicultural character.
Population:
31,261
Density:
3,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
31.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
37.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
38.9%
Black:
4.2%
Asian:
7.0%
Others:
49.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Atwater, CA?
Living in Atwater is relatively affordable for California, with a median home value of $343,000 and average rents around $1,320. The overall cost of living index is just slightly above the national average, making it an attractive option for families and budget-conscious individuals.
Median House Value:
$343,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$150
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,840
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
106.5
Grocery:
108.2
Housing:
104.2
Utilities:
110.3
Transportation:
99.1
Health Care:
104.5
Miscellaneous:
102.8
Crime
Is Atwater, CA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Atwater are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 292 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 45 chance of property crime. Residents should be mindful of safety, but many still find the city’s community atmosphere appealing.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
343
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,218
Crime Index:
2,561
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 292
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Atwater, CA year-round?
Atwater boasts a pleasant climate with warm, dry summers reaching up to 97°F and mild winters averaging 58°F. The city enjoys about 79% sunny days annually and receives moderate rainfall, making outdoor activities possible throughout most of the year.
Winter
Min:
39°F
Max:
58°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
97°F
Fall
Min:
50°F
Max:
82°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
12.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
79%
Neighbors
The median household income in Atwater is $62,350, though nearly 20% of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just under 27 minutes, with very low public transportation usage.
Median Income:
$29,900
Household Income:
$62,350
Family Income:
$67,800
Per Capita Income:
$21,250
Income Male:
$36,700
Income Female:
$30,400
Poverty Rate:
19.7%
Non English Speakers:
37.2%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
26.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.0%
Bachelors or More:
13.7%
Education
How are the schools in Atwater, CA?
Families in Atwater benefit from several public and private school options, including Atwater High School and St. Anthony School, as well as proximity to higher education at Merced College and UC Merced just a short drive away. Student-teacher ratios are typical for the region, supporting a solid educational environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Atwater High School
Street:
2201 Fruitland Ave
Phone:
209-357-6020
Students:
1,950
Student Teacher Ratio:
22.5
Name:
Mitchell Senior Elementary
Street:
1753 Fifth St
Phone:
209-357-6124
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Anthony School
Street:
1801 Winton Way
Phone:
209-358-2415
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Merced College
City:
Merced
State:
CA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
12,500
Name:
UC Merced
City:
Merced
State:
CA
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
9,300
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Atwater is strong, with over 91% of residents insured and nearby facilities like Mercy Medical Center Merced providing comprehensive emergency and general care. Physician availability is moderate, ensuring residents can find quality medical services close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Medical Center Merced
Address:
333 Mercy Ave, Merced, CA 95340
Phone:
(209) 564-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
66.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Atwater, CA?
Atwater’s housing market features a median home price of $343,000 and a balanced mix of owners and renters, with just over half of homes being owner-occupied. Rental vacancy rates are moderate, and home values have appreciated by 3.5% over the past year, indicating a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$343,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents of Atwater can access full DMV services at the nearby California Department of Motor Vehicles office in Turlock or online, ensuring convenient processing for licenses, registrations, and other needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
800 S. Broadway, Turlock, CA 95380
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.