Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Bear City, CA
Thinking of moving to Big Bear City, CA? With a friendly population of 13,463, this mountain community offers affordable living with a median home price of $365,000 and average rents around $1,400. Residents enjoy a sunny climate (73% sunny days) and year-round outdoor recreation. Crime rates are moderate, and the average commute is about 32 minutes. While schools are solid and the area is safe, the relaxed pace and stunning natural setting make Big Bear City a great choice for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Demographics - Big Bear City, CA
Demographics - Big Bear City, CA
Big Bear City is home to about 13,500 residents, with a median age of nearly 49, reflecting a mature and settled population. The community is predominantly White, but also includes a mix of other backgrounds, and around 11% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a balance between small-town feel and vibrant community life.
Population:
13,463
Density:
690 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.7
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
74.8%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
22.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Bear City, CA?
The cost of living in Big Bear City is slightly above the national average, with a median home value of $365,000 and average rents near $1,400 per month. Utilities and insurance costs are moderate, making it an affordable mountain destination compared to other California locales. State tax rates vary, so it's important for newcomers to plan accordingly.
Median House Value:
$365,000
Gross Rent:
$1,400
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$155
Auto Insurance:
$1,550
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$650
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
116.5
Grocery:
109.0
Housing:
123.5
Utilities:
112.2
Transportation:
115.8
Health Care:
104.6
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Big Bear City, CA a safe place to live?
Big Bear City experiences moderate crime rates, with about 189 violent crimes and 1,970 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of being a victim of a violent crime is relatively low at 1 in 530, contributing to a sense of security for families and retirees. Overall, it remains a safe choice for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
189
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,970
Crime Index:
2,159
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 530
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 51
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Bear City, CA year-round?
Residents enjoy 73% sunny days each year, with warm summers reaching up to 81°F and snowy winters that can dip to 21°F. The area receives roughly 23 inches of rainfall annually, supporting year-round outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are distinct, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied mountain weather.
Winter
Min:
21°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
44°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
73%
Neighbors
Big Bear City households typically earn a median income of around $58,200, with a poverty rate of 14.5% and an unemployment rate close to 6%. Most adults have completed high school, and about one in five hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Residents have an average commute time of 32.5 minutes, and public transportation usage is low, reflecting the area’s laid-back, car-friendly lifestyle.
Median Income:
$41,800
Household Income:
$58,200
Family Income:
$66,400
Per Capita Income:
$29,700
Income Male:
$39,000
Income Female:
$32,500
Poverty Rate:
14.5%
Non English Speakers:
11.2%
Rent:
$1,400
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
32.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.3%
Bachelors or More:
20.4%
Education
How are the schools in Big Bear City, CA?
Local schools in Big Bear City offer quality education, with public elementary, middle, and high schools serving the community and maintaining manageable class sizes. For higher education, residents have access to nearby institutions such as Crafton Hills College and California State University, San Bernardino, within a 40-mile drive. Education attainment is solid, with over 88% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Big Bear Elementary School
Street:
40940 Pennsylvania Ave
Phone:
909-866-4638
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.2
Name:
Big Bear Middle School
Street:
41275 Big Bear Blvd
Phone:
909-866-4634
Students:
520
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.7
Name:
Big Bear High School
Street:
351 Maple Ln
Phone:
909-585-6892
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.1
Private Schools
Name:
North Shore Christian Preschool & Academy
Street:
575 North Shore Dr
Phone:
909-866-7501
Students:
75
Colleges
Name:
Crafton Hills College
City:
Yucaipa
State:
CA
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
5,400
Name:
California State University, San Bernardino
City:
San Bernardino
State:
CA
Distance:
43 miles
Students:
20,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Big Bear City is anchored by Bear Valley Community Hospital, providing general and emergency services locally. With about 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage, residents have reliable access to care. The area’s healthcare index shows generally satisfactory medical services for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Bear Valley Community Hospital
Address:
41870 Garstin Dr, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Phone:
(909) 866-6501
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mountains Community Hospital
Address:
29101 Hospital Rd, Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
Phone:
(909) 336-3651
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.8%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Bear City, CA?
Big Bear City offers a stable housing market, with median home prices at $365,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom unit around $1,400. Most homes are owner-occupied, and the area has a low foreclosure rate of just 0.6%. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it an attractive market for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$365,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,400
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
DMV services in Big Bear City are provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Big Bear Blvd. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other vehicle needs locally or visit the California DMV website for online services. The office is easily accessible and serves as a central resource for drivers in the area.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
42138 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
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.