Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ballard, CA
Considering a move to Ballard, CA? This charming small town has a population of just 467 and boasts a friendly atmosphere, low crime rates, and top-rated schools like Ballard Elementary. Expect a high median home price around $1.1M and average rents near $2,350, reflecting Ballard’s desirable location and quality of life. Residents enjoy a sunny climate with 71% sunny days, short 25-minute commutes, and easy access to nearby healthcare and higher education. Ballard is ideal for those seeking quiet living, great schools, and beautiful Central Coast weather.
Demographics - Ballard, CA
Demographics - Ballard, CA
Ballard is a small, close-knit community with just 467 residents and a balanced gender ratio. The median age of 48 suggests a mature population, and the town is predominantly White, with a modest Hispanic or Latino presence. A small percentage of non-English speakers adds subtle diversity to this peaceful locale.
Population:
467
Density:
320 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
86.0%
Asian:
1.4%
Others:
2.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ballard, CA?
Living in Ballard comes with a higher cost of living, as reflected by a median home value of $1,120,000 and rents averaging $2,350. Utilities and groceries are also above the national average, making it ideal for those seeking an upscale, quiet lifestyle. State taxes range widely, and the overall cost of living index is significantly higher than average.
Median House Value:
$1,120,000
Gross Rent:
$2,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$205
Auto Insurance:
$1,865
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$820
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
166.2
Grocery:
119.0
Housing:
241.0
Utilities:
120.2
Transportation:
136.0
Health Care:
113.5
Miscellaneous:
110.0
Crime
Is Ballard, CA a safe place to live?
Ballard is a very safe community, with violent crime rates at just 90 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime also well below national averages. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 1,110, making it an appealing choice for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
90
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,140
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,110
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Ballard, CA year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate, with winter lows around 38°F and summer highs reaching 82°F. The area sees about 18 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny weather 71% of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
77°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
18.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
71%
Neighbors
Ballard’s residents are well-educated, with nearly half holding a bachelor’s degree or higher and a high school graduation rate of over 97%. Median household income is strong at $121,200, and a low poverty rate of 5.7% reflects the town’s stability. Commute times average a manageable 26 minutes, and unemployment is low.
Median Income:
$54,100
Household Income:
$121,200
Family Income:
$124,800
Per Capita Income:
$51,300
Income Male:
$58,200
Income Female:
$49,100
Poverty Rate:
5.7%
Non English Speakers:
11.0%
Rent:
$2,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
25.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.1%
Bachelors or More:
48.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ballard, CA?
Ballard offers excellent educational opportunities, including highly rated public schools like Ballard Elementary with small class sizes. Private education is available at institutions like Dunn School, and higher education is within reach at nearby colleges such as Allan Hancock College and UC Santa Barbara. The town’s focus on education makes it attractive for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Ballard Elementary School
Street:
2425 School St
Phone:
805-688-4812
Students:
116
Student Teacher Ratio:
17:1
Private Schools
Name:
Dunn School
Street:
2555 W Highway 154
Phone:
805-688-6471
Students:
230
Colleges
Name:
Allan Hancock College
City:
Santa Maria
State:
CA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
13,500
Name:
UC Santa Barbara
City:
Santa Barbara
State:
CA
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
26,000
Healthcare
Ballard residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with two major hospitals nearby providing comprehensive services and emergency care. The area boasts a high rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 94%, and there are about 2 physicians per 1,000 residents. Healthcare quality is supported by a solid healthcare index, ensuring reliable services for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital
Address:
2050 Viborg Rd, Solvang, CA 93463
Phone:
(805) 688-6431
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Lompoc Valley Medical Center
Address:
1515 E Ocean Ave, Lompoc, CA 93436
Phone:
(805) 737-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ballard, CA?
The housing market in Ballard is competitive, with a median home price of $1,120,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 77%. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain low, indicating high demand. Most residents own their homes, reflecting the area’s stability and desirability.
Median Home Price:
$1,120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Ballard residents are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Ventura. The DMV offers a full range of services for drivers and vehicle owners, and additional information is easily accessible online. Customer support is available via a statewide toll-free number.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3665 Market St, Ventura, CA 93003
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.