Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Sur, CA
Considering a move to Big Sur, CA? This iconic coastal region offers a small, close-knit population of around 1,200, with a laid-back lifestyle and breathtaking scenery. While median home prices are high at $1.65 million and average rents around $2,900, residents enjoy a mild climate with 72% sunny days each year and low crime rates. Commute times are short at 23 minutes, and local schools are intimate, though higher education options are found in nearby Monterey. Big Sur is ideal for those seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and a unique California coastal experience.
Demographics - Big Sur, CA
Demographics - Big Sur, CA
Big Sur is home to a small, close-knit community of about 1,200 residents, with a median age of 47.5 and a population density of just 12 people per square mile. The area is predominantly White (75%), with a significant Hispanic or Latino presence (20%), and around 17% of residents speak a language other than English at home. This makes Big Sur an appealing location for those seeking a peaceful, diverse, and mature environment.
Population:
1,200
Density:
12 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.5
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
17.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.0%
Asian:
2.0%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Sur, CA?
Big Sur has a high cost of living, with median home values reaching $1.65 million and average rents at $2,900 per month. The overall cost of living index is 78% above the U.S. average, reflecting particularly high housing expenses. Residents should budget for elevated utilities, transportation, and groceries compared to many other regions in California.
Median House Value:
$1,650,000
Gross Rent:
$2,900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,750
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
1.0%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
178.0
Grocery:
125.0
Housing:
285.0
Utilities:
110.0
Transportation:
140.0
Health Care:
115.0
Miscellaneous:
120.0
Crime
Is Big Sur, CA a safe place to live?
Big Sur experiences very low crime rates, with only 120 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 833 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime is also relatively rare, offering a strong sense of safety and security for locals. This peaceful environment makes it an attractive option for those prioritizing personal safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,270
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Sur, CA year-round?
Residents of Big Sur enjoy a mild, coastal climate, with summer highs around 70°F and winter lows near 44°F. The area receives about 41 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 72% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The consistent, pleasant weather enhances the quality of life and supports year-round recreation.
Winter
Min:
44°F
Max:
60°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
70°F
Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
72%
Neighbors
Big Sur neighborhoods are characterized by modest incomes, with a median household income of $72,000 and a poverty rate of 10.5%. The community is well-educated, as nearly 89% have completed high school and over a third hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Most residents commute about 23 minutes to work, reflecting the area's rural charm and relaxed pace.
Median Income:
$39,000
Household Income:
$72,000
Family Income:
$85,000
Per Capita Income:
$38,000
Income Male:
$44,000
Income Female:
$38,500
Poverty Rate:
10.5%
Non English Speakers:
17.0%
Rent:
$2,900
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.0%
Bachelors or More:
34.0%
Education
How are the schools in Big Sur, CA?
Educational options in Big Sur include the small Pacific Valley School, offering an intimate learning environment with a low student-teacher ratio. While private schools are not present locally, higher education is accessible in nearby Monterey and Seaside, home to institutions like Monterey Peninsula College and California State University, Monterey Bay. Families and students benefit from personalized attention in local schools and proximity to respected colleges.
Public Schools
Name:
Pacific Valley School
Street:
69325 Highway 1
Phone:
831-667-2574
Students:
20
Student Teacher Ratio:
7.5
Colleges
Name:
Monterey Peninsula College
City:
Monterey
State:
CA
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
7,000
Name:
California State University, Monterey Bay
City:
Seaside
State:
CA
Distance:
40 miles
Students:
7,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in Big Sur is supported by nearby facilities such as the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, offering general and emergency services. The region has a solid health insurance coverage rate of 91% and about 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring access to essential medical care. Overall, residents benefit from reliable healthcare resources within a reasonable distance.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula
Address:
23625 Holman Hwy, Monterey, CA 93940
Phone:
(831) 624-5311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Sur, CA?
The Big Sur housing market is characterized by high property values, with a median home price of $1.65 million and average rent for a two-bedroom at $2,900. About 59% of homes are owner-occupied, and the market has experienced a 7% appreciation rate in the past year. The area sees little new construction or foreclosure activity, contributing to its exclusivity.
Median Home Price:
$1,650,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,900
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.0%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents of Big Sur are served by the California Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest office located in Seaside. The DMV offers a full range of vehicle and licensing services, and customer support is available by phone or online. This ensures convenient access to all essential motor vehicle needs.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1180 Canyon Del Rey Blvd, Seaside, CA 93955
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.