Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bonny Doon, CA
Considering a move to Bonny Doon, CA? This scenic rural community has a small population of around 2,850, high educational attainment, and a tranquil, forested setting just north of Santa Cruz. Expect a high cost of living and median home prices near $1.2 million, with rents averaging $2,850. Crime rates are low, and residents enjoy a mild coastal climate with 70% sunny days, quick commutes to Santa Cruz, and access to top schools and healthcare. Bonny Doon is ideal for those seeking peace, nature, and a strong community feel.
Demographics - Bonny Doon, CA
Demographics - Bonny Doon, CA
Bonny Doon is a small, close-knit community of about 2,850 residents, with a population density of 120 people per square mile and a median age of 50.2. The area is predominantly White, and most residents speak English at home, reflecting a peaceful, mature atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
Population:
2,850
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
50.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
86.3%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bonny Doon, CA?
Living in Bonny Doon is notably expensive, with a median home value of $1,175,000 and average rents around $2,850 per month. The cost of living index is significantly higher than the U.S. average, reflecting premium housing and everyday expenses in this desirable coastal area.
Median House Value:
$1,175,000
Gross Rent:
$2,850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$180
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$950
State Taxes:
Low:
1%
|
High:
13.3%
Cost Of Living Index:
184.0
Grocery:
124.5
Housing:
310.1
Utilities:
110.2
Transportation:
132.3
Health Care:
107.8
Miscellaneous:
119.0
Crime
Is Bonny Doon, CA a safe place to live?
Bonny Doon offers a safe environment, with very low violent crime rates—just 78 incidents per 100,000 residents—and a property crime rate well below national averages. Residents enjoy a strong sense of security, making it appealing for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,220
Crime Index:
1,298
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,285
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in Bonny Doon, CA year-round?
The climate in Bonny Doon is mild and pleasant year-round, with summer highs in the upper 70s and winter lows in the 40s. Residents enjoy approximately 70% sunny days annually and around 36 inches of rainfall, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Winter
Min:
42°F
Max:
58°F

Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
66°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
70%
Neighbors
Bonny Doon's residents are well-educated and financially comfortable, with a median household income of $140,500 and a poverty rate of just over 5%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the community boasts a low unemployment rate and low use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$69,000
Household Income:
$140,500
Family Income:
$152,000
Per Capita Income:
$60,200
Income Male:
$78,000
Income Female:
$62,500
Poverty Rate:
5.1%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$2,850
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
30.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.3%
Bachelors or More:
55.4%
Education
How are the schools in Bonny Doon, CA?
Bonny Doon offers strong educational opportunities, featuring a well-rated elementary school with small class sizes and proximity to the University of California, Santa Cruz. Families benefit from access to quality public education and higher learning within just a few miles.

Public Schools
Name:
Bonny Doon Elementary School
Street:
1492 Pine Flat Rd
Phone:
831-427-2300
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1

Colleges
Name:
University of California, Santa Cruz
City:
Santa Cruz
State:
CA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
19,000
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Dominican Hospital and Watsonville Community Hospital nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 93.7%. The area is well-served by physicians and offers essential emergency and medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Dominican Hospital
Address:
1555 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95065
Phone:
(831) 462-7700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Watsonville Community Hospital
Address:
75 Nielson St, Watsonville, CA 95076
Phone:
(831) 724-4741
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
78.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bonny Doon, CA?
Bonny Doon's housing market is dominated by homeownership, with over 80% of residents owning their homes and a median price of $1,175,000. Rental options are limited but stable, with low vacancy and a solid appreciation rate, making it a sought-after area for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$1,175,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,850
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
3.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles in Capitola, offering convenient access for licensing, registration, and vehicle needs. Residents can reach the DMV by phone or online for appointments and information.
State:
California
Department:
California Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4200 Capitola Rd, Capitola, CA 95010
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.